3 minute read
The last G1 of the 2011/12 season in Hong Kong, the Standard Chartered Champions and Chater is run over the classic distance of 2400m.
Photo by Whistlejacket
This year's edition seems to be a battle between the established champ Ambitious Dragon and the up-and-coming star Dominant. Italian jockey Umberto Rispoli has flown in to ride Ambitious Dragon as Douglas Whyte takes the ride on Dominant. The current betting has the locals going strongly for Ambitious Dragon, now at odds-on, with Dominant on 2.3. There is scope for the 3 and 4 horse wagers adding Irian on 10.0 and Mr Medici on 15.0 to the mix.
Ambitious Dragon looked a formidable opponent in all his runs before his trip to Dubai, where he had some issues. His return in the QEII was acceptable but not the brilliant run we are used to seeing. Odds on based on that run does not look like value but if he were back to his old form it could be. Decisions!
That is Race 8, and the closing race 11 is Class 2 over 1800m. We like Aomen here - on 5.1, California Dude who is improving with every run value on 8.2, Dan Excel currently favourite on 3.9, and Real Specialist on 10.0.