3 minute read
Brett Davis provides exclusive Preview of Happy Valley races.
Rail - B Course
Race 1
#2 SMASHING EXPRESS hasn't set the world of fire from his eight career starts but his two efforts recently in class 5 have him rated a strong chance tonight. Hugh Bowman jumped aboard at his first run in the lowest grade and together they closed off well enough to grab third. With Bowman back in the saddle from a good draw and a change of venue to Happy Valley I'm expecting a competitive performance across the board.
#4 FURY AND GOLD on paper shall find this race a fraction short after winning his last outing over the 2200m. However, he's drawn to do no work from gate 5 and regular rider Andrea Atzeni is again aboard after the pair galloped stylishly on the turf just over a week ago. The long gap between runs and the shorter journey of 1800m appear slightly against him but I can't fault his focus and appearance leading in.
#5 GO GO GO is an honest and regular competitor in races similar to this and for that reason alone he must be considered. A good draw and 7lbs claim entitle him to a cushy run in transit whilst conserving energy for the dash home. With just one win from 26 starts to his credit it's difficult to label him the stand out selection in the race, but he's certainly favoured by this races structure and accomodating conditions.
#6 KASA PAPA remains a maiden following a 29 start career so he's difficult to recommend for the win. Nonetheless, he's been in reasonable form, all considered, with two minor placings recorded at his past four starts.A change of scenery back to Happy Valley, and rider to Zac Purton, might be just what he needs so he's worthy of including in to the wider exotics.
#9 RUNNING AHEAD hasn't coped with the demands of Hong Kong racing since arriving from Australia rated 75. His 4 efforts earlier this season however did indicate that he wasn't too faraway from finding a competitive mark, and might be a runner to include in your thoughts going forward. Since then, he hasn't been seen doing a great deal in the mornings but he's to dangerously rated to be leaving out.
Selections : 2,4,5,6,9
R2 - 9,2,4,6,12
R3 - 6,4,11,2,1
R4 - 6,9,7,1,4
R5 - 10,8,6,1,4
Race 9
#9 GIMME FIVE has responded nicely to the application of blinkers his past three starts and another the low draw here should give him every possible chance. He looked ready to win three runs back before a hefty bump approaching the home bend put him out of contention. Interestingly, the handicappers finally dropped his rating by two points after his last start which allows him to carry a slightly lesser weight.
#10 GLORY B finished second to a handy type in VIEW OF THE WORLD recently and that form should stand up in this event. He's got plenty of speed and knows his way around the 1200m at Happy Valley which is genuinely a distinct advantage. There's certainly others competing that can match his current level of form but he continues to try hard and should end up in an favourable travelling position.
#1 SMART FIGHTER is eying off a hat-trick of wins following two hard fought victories over this course and trip. However, with a 134lbs to carry and the near outside gate to exit from there are justifiable reasons to take him on. Nonetheless, winning form is good form and he's the best horse going around when you analyse the opposition, but he'll definitely need a ride of the night steer to again get the job done.
#4 SKY JEWELLERY makes his debut for trainer John Size and he's been well educated with a total of 8 barrier trials. The jury is out as to whether he's blessed with any outstanding ability but the owner hasn't had to many slow ones in the past. He's been giving the impression he'll be wanting further ground but the market movements, particularly during the later stages of betting, are likely to be the most accurate guide.
#2 OWNERS' PRAISE is ready to peak regarding fitness this campaign and from the inside gate he'll be gifted a good run. Jockey Derek Leung also has an excellent record when taking this mount which should count for plenty in a tricky race. He's also a two time winner over this exact course and distance which places him in a comfort zone before the gates even open.
Selections : 9,10,1,4,2
R7 - 5,2,8,1,6
R8 - 12,4,5,2,11
R9 - 1,4,2,6,12
