3 minute read

Brett Davis provides exclusive preview of Happy Valley races.

Race 1

#8 Sky Gem returns to his pet distance of 2200m as Casper Fownes looks to strengthen his grip on the Trainer's Championship Trophy. He's a consistent type that's searching for his first win this season and such a win would compliment his many minor placings. Recently, he returned from Conghua where a change of scenery and freshen up was absorbed and I'd expect him to power home with purpose in the latter stages.
#2 Cheerful Star doesn't win out of turn saluting on just one occasion but this noted back marker should make the most of another prime opportunity. Moriera sticks to the saddle and he'll be hoping for a change of fortune with this being his third attempt in class 5. His A-game would have him right in the finish and is therefore a serious contender considering many of his rivals appear a query at the distance.
#4 President Star has saluted twice over the shorter journeys and boasts the most prize money accumulated this season. This being his first attempt over 2200m does create minor reservations as he only plugged to the line over the 2000m. Barrier one and the Purton factor however wont hurt his chance and I liked the way he stretched out for third last start. He should bounce quickly with the potential to lead and if he receives the soft sectionals required he's the one to beat.
#5 Apolar Warrior still holds his maiden banner aloft after fourteen starts but is nicely placed to give this a shake. His recent form is sound, which includes a close up effort behind "Fairy Floss" who again won on Sunday, and there's also some been legitimate excuses along the way. Alex Badel jumps in to the saddle and it's a winnable race at his first attempt over the journey.
#10 The Joy Of Giving ran a blinder two starts back and is likely to gain similar favours under the light weight. He's been a very competitive galloper recently and should be closer in the run. With the extra journey on offer he's a must for exotic players and can even win with the perfect ride.

Selections : 8,2,4,5,10

R2 - 8,5,12,2,3

R3 - 1,5,6,3,2

R4 - 9,2,7,1,4

R5 - 5,11,4,10,6

R6 - 3,2,7,10,1

Race 7

#2 Gift Of Lifeline is a consistent and a proven class 3 performer that rarely runs a bad race. He showed off his electric turn of foot last outing, after giving away a start, and recorded an impressive win. He ticks many boxes again this evening and should lob midfield the fence saving energy. From there finding a clear passage rounding the home bend is crucial but I fancy he's going well enough to again put the race to bed.
#9 Smoothies is hoping to go one better after being the bridesmaid his last three starts whilst producing outstanding closing sectionals. He maps to push further forward tonight and with a slow tempo expected should apply the acid test to the leaders.
#5 Ka Ying Excellent ran a terrific race recently and didn't shirk the task when the hard core pressure went on. Moreira partners up this time with the Tony Cruz trained runner and the pair have had success in the past. Rolling the dice and pushing forward early looks the recipe from a tricky draw and he seemed to enjoy his first run at the valley.
#4 Cinquante Cinq appears on his mark following his debut several seasons back with his form since tapering off. He's normally around the mark against seasoned class 3 gallopers but it's fair to say he's been rather common. I do however recall him giving a cheeky sight when leading over this trip four starts ago, so I'll label him a sneaky chance at a price.
#11 Bright Kid has been a model of consistency and was a winner first up this season. He often gives away a start but tonight has a very lightweight with the claim. A hot tempo would have him licking his lips and in the process bring him right into contention.

Selections : 2,9,5,4,11

R8 - 12,7,10,1,2

R9 - 1,3,7,6,2