3 minute read
Brett Davis provides exclusive preview of Happy Valley races.
Race 1
#3 Split Of A Second has only been in this class on one occasion and that resulted in a fairly comprehensive win. It was the shining light in a poor overall season last term but highlights his capabilities in the lowest grade. His form then was worse than his current line so don't be petered. He's a good each way chance in a wide betting race and he's going well enough to win.
#5 Zacian has been thereabouts all season without winning and should again be entertained. He returns to the valley which I'm not against, despite the record, but shall need luck from the draw. What I do see as positive is his strength to the line last start over 1400m which shall hold him in good shape here.
#7 Viva Mama recently arrived at the Richard Gibson stable and Zac Purton has been booked for the ride. He's a jump and run type who'll look to cross the field and should eventually take up the lead. He'll be in this for a long way with a run now under the belt ,however, strength in a finish has been his vulnerability in the past.
#8 Telecom Missile was an encouraging winner towards the end of last season and arrives fresh up tonight. Moreira has been called in for the ride and the pair have worked together before in a registered trial. The inside draw is a major bonus and despite the trainer/jockey strike rate decline this season I'd be keeping him very safe.
#10 Joy Avenue was given an average ride last start and subsequently a rider alteration has occurred. Mathew Poon is the man behind the wheel now and he knows this fellow well. Like all candidates in this event he's unreliable but his best effort has him in the finish, he'll likely be a nice price as well.
Selections : 3,5,7,8,10
R2 - 4,3,11,8,9
R3 - 1,4,5,11,10
R4 - 8,10,7,3,4
R5 - 5,10,4,1,7
Race 6
#1 Harmony Fire is yet to miss a cheque from 8 starts and I don't envisage that changing tonight. He's looked a class 2 horse or better from day one and he's just about to arrive to that grade. Cheek pieces are added tonight which is an interesting gear change considering he hasn't done a great deal wrong. Nevertheless, he's a money spinning machine that looks tough to beat with his reliable gate speed and intestinal fortitude difficult to deny.
#8 Heart Conquered has found a number of tonight's opposition to good for him in the past but he can turn those results around. Despite his maiden status he's more than capable and shall thrive on the early speed that's going to be dished up here. Jerry Chau is still entitled to a 3lbs local rider claim and it could well be the difference at the end.
#3 Decisive Twelve is a genuine class 3 galloper that's his own worst enemy at times. If pestered on the lead he can dial up and resent restraint which has been the issue his last two starts. However, back to the 1000m appears a good call from trainer Chris So and I'm including him as a genuine hope.
#9 Propice was a smart 2yo in Australia before his important. Unfortunately for connections he suffered a severe tendon issue that sidelined him indefinitely shortly after he arrived. Almost a year down the track he's now mentally acclimatised and physically coming good. Both efforts this term have been encouraging and from the draw he goes in as a chance. It's likely he'll be a nice horse to follow should he remain sound.
#7 Escape Route makes his debut at Happy Valley for the powerful Size/Moriera combination. He's raced in the same interest as "Waikuku" a multiple Group 1 winner and connections are known to spend up big. He's been in work since November last year so I'm weary of his presence and keen to hear the pre-race paddock report.
Selections : 1,8,3,9,7
R7 - 9,10,2,11,4
R8 - 5,2,1,9,3
R9 - 2,10,6,7,3
