Thursday’s eight-race Turffontein Inside track meeting could well be a showground for the riding talents of Keagan de Melo and Craig Zackey. These two premier jockeys both boast powerful rides and look well placed to dominate proceedings, with attractive double opportunities for punters seeking to build their bets around proven professionals. De Melo can get the afternoon off to a flying start and may well have his double wrapped up before the card reaches its halfway point. His first chance comes in Race 1 aboard Johan Janse van Vuuren-trained Periodic Table, who has done little wrong in two career starts. The son of Danon Platina has filled the runner-up position on both occasions, most recently when narrowly denied over 1000m in a work riders event. That defeat was frustrating for supporters who sent him off at cramped odds, but the performance itself suggests a maiden victory is close. The step up to 1200m looks a positive move and, in a race lacking obvious depth, he should not need to improve much to make amends. The De Melo-Janse van Vuuren combination can strike again in Race 2 with Brigitte Anne, a filly whose consistency deserves reward. The well-related daughter of Querari has hit the frame in all five starts and produced another honest effort when third over this course and distance against male opposition last time. Dropping into a contest restricted to her own sex represents a significant easing of her task and a repeat of that latest performance should make her extremely difficult to beat. Craig Zackey, meanwhile, appears to have strong claims of a double of his own. The country’s leading rider can strike in Race 4 aboard Gimmesumluv for Lucky Houdalakis. The daughter of Gimmethegreenlight was disappointing in her last outing, but the run is best forgiven after she was reported not to be striding out freely. Punters should be prepared to overlook that effort. Her previous form stacks up well in the context of this race and, if returning to her earlier level, she is capable of making amends at what could prove attractive odds. Zackey’s standout engagement comes later on the card in Race 7, where Sean Tarry-trained That’s My Baby shapes as one of the stronger wagers of the afternoon. The daughter of Master Of My Fate has been holding her own in stronger company and arrives with form that compares favourably to most of her rivals. Her latest effort in KwaZulu-Natal was particularly encouraging, finishing close up in a race that on paper looks stronger than this contest. Crucially, she remains competitive off her current handicap mark and looks ideally placed to capitalise on this drop in class. With De Melo holding a strong hand in the opening exchanges and Zackey boasting two major winning chances later in the programme, Thursday’s Inside track fixture presents punters with a straightforward angle. Back the country’s leading riders and let their quality do the heavy lifting. Clive Robinson

Tuesday’s modest card is dominated by maidens, offering several long-time battlers a chance to finally break through. The standout race appears to be the ninth over 1600m where Justin Snaith-trained Blind Date looks poised to secure his second career victory.

Blind Date returned from a five-month break over an inadequate 1200m trip and stayed on strongly for second behind Cork Bay. The son of Futura should improve sharply in fitness and the step up to a mile looks ideal. He has threatened at this level for some time but maturity and confidence have held him back. With Craig Zackey aboard, he could finally put it all together.

Stablemate Cedar Point also commands respect after a solid second behind Noon Day Gun. He rises slightly in class but carries less weight thanks to Mickaelle Michel’s claim. Although untested over a mile, his racing style suggests the trip may suit. Captains Alliance is another contender after an improved second to Marcus Aurellius for the in-form Vaughan Marshall yard.

Race 1 over 1200m looks weak and Odds And Evens has the strongest exposed form. She improved significantly from debut to second start and another step forward could see her home, although any capable first-timer would be a danger.

El Cohete sets the standard in race 2 over 1000m after three consistent efforts, including a debut second to Margate. While she has not progressed dramatically since, her form remains superior to most rivals.

Ruby Rex returns from an October break in race 3 and faces modest opposition. Her narrow defeat to Call Of The Karoo reads well enough to make her a leading chance despite obvious fitness concerns.

Witch Hazel makes her local debut in race 4 for Lucinda Woodruff after promising Johannesburg form behind quality runners like Splittheeights and Grand Empire. Despite a six-month layoff, she appears well placed against weaker opposition.

Navasnine should take plenty of beating in race 5 if he stays 1400m. After two runner-up finishes, including behind exciting youngster Reef Runner, he looks ready to shed his maiden tag under Zackey.

Chinwag appeals in race 6 after two encouraging runs and should appreciate stepping up to 1400m, while Peace Garland rates the main threat.

Master Coiner could offer value in race 7 after enduring a difficult trip last time, while Heavenly Prince looks the day’s best bet in race 8. He has improved rapidly with racing, carries top weight confidently and should relish the 1950m trip for the Candice Bass yard.

Video Stars Race 2 – 12 CASA PRIMO He was slow to begin last start and struck significant interference between the 400m and 200m. Once clear running became available in the concluding stages, he finished strongly to claim fifth, beaten only 2.25 lengths over this track and distance. Having improved with each run, he looks well weighted to make his presence felt in what appears a below-par Class 4 field. Race 4 – 5 DANCING BLAZE A tough trip dented his winning chances on debut two weeks ago, as he was caught wide on the pace throughout after jumping from a slightly awkward draw. Despite the circumstances, he still battled on gamely to finish fourth over this track and distance. He should derive benefit from that experience and, with better luck in running, could secure a Top 3 finish second-up. Sectional Stars Race 3 – 7 HAPPY SMILE His debut effort was encouraging, as he charged home strongly to finish sixth over this track and distance. Had he not been held up between the 350m and 250m, he likely would have finished in the Top 3. With natural improvement expected, he looks one to follow closely second-up. Race 6 – 6 SUPER GOLDENDRAGON He caused a major upset over 2200m at Happy Valley two starts ago and followed that up with a close second over 1800m at this track last time out, despite racing wide throughout. As one of the in-form runners in this week’s field, he should prove highly competitive with a kinder run in transit.

With the season nearing its climax, Sha Tin hosts two Group 3 contests on Sunday (31 May), which will feature two improving young gallopers reaching their peaks this term. Both Sky Jewellery and Patch Of Stars are at career-high marks of 95 and 101, respectively, and both will make their debut at Group level this weekend, looking to answer broader questions about their promise. John Size-trained Sky Jewellery has made a stunning comeback this season following a 12-month break, with two wins after his April return a reminder of the four-year-old’s exciting potential. The Autumn Sun gelding has proven his adaptability across the first seven races of his career, registering wins over 1200m, 1400m and 1600m in Good, Good to Firm and Soft conditions. Andrea Atzeni retains the ride on Sky Jewellery (119lb) in the G3 Lion Rock Trophy Handicap (1600m) following a successful first outing together in a rain-affected Class 2 mile contest four weeks ago. “He’s done nothing wrong so far,” Atzeni said. “He’s won his last two races, and he’s up in grade, with the lightish weight. He’s a nice horse, and we’ll find out a little bit more on Sunday. “I wasn’t quite sure about the ground (on his last run). When he came out of the gates, he just sort of struggled to get a grip. But once we got into the straight and he put himself together, he finished off nicely,” added the Italian. “I don’t know what the weather is going to be like for the rest of the week, but he’s pretty versatile. If it becomes a bit slow, he’s obviously won on it. But he’s won on top of the ground too. So, I don’t think the ground would be an issue.” The engagement sees Atzeni, who is third in the jockeys’ standings on 54 wins for the season and sits three wins behind Sky Jewellery’s regular rider Hugh Bowman, renew his partnership with champion trainer John Size, with whom he’s enjoyed a highly successful association, yielding 18 winners this term. “John’s been supporting me for most of the season and we’ve done well together,” Atzeni said. “I’ve been able to do those lightweights, which was a big help for me.” Karis Teetan picks up the ride on Manfred Man-trained Patch Of Stars, who will carry 121lb when he tackles the G3 Sha Tin Vase Handicap (1200m). The All Too Hard gelding has three wins, a second and a third from seven runs in a hugely successful four-year-old campaign, which has seen his mark climb from 79 since he finished a fading sixth in a Class 3 test on the opening day of the season. He’ll encounter a line-up of established sprinters in Sunday’s co-feature, including Raging Blizzard (135lb), Beauty Waves (129lb) and Tomodachi Kokoroe (126lb), who for a period this season was the 1200m Class 2 course record-holder at Sha Tin. But Teetan believes his mount is coming into form towards the end of the season and that the light weight could give Patch Of Stars an edge. “At the end of the season, you get those horses that are still holding their form, and they go in with the nice lightweight. Those are the ones to get on,” said the Mauritian. “I’m lucky to be able to pick up this horse. “It’s a tough race – there’s some horses that we need to respect, of course. But I do believe he’s in the right place to be competitive.” Sunday’s (31 May) 11-race fixture at Sha Tin starts at 12.45pm with the Hong Kong Wu Hua General Association Cup Plate (1200m) for Griffins. By Paul Ryding

The 1200m PRTC Community Shield (Race 7) will headline a marathon thirteen race card at the Perak Turf Club on Sunday in what appears to be a very challenging program for punters. Track specialist ARIGATO (1) will head the weights in the RM100,000 feature and his high rating means that he will carry at least 4.5kg more than his opposition. With four wins from six starts on the Ipoh circuit, the seven-year-old is coming off an all-the-way victory over subsequent winner Lucky Lyle in a 1200m Enrich A contest on May 9. Despite the 59kg and harder opposition, he may still possess the class to make it successive wins this Sunday. BANKER’S FIRST (2) has impressed in two starts in the country with the former Aussie winning at big odds-on local debut back in April prior to finishing runner up behind talented sprinter, Yes Man in a strong KL Metro A contest three weeks ago. On that form line alone with 54.5kg to carry, BANKER’S FIRST (2) should prove hard to beat with the Banker’s Stable / Johnny Lim combination in good form this season. Five-year-old STOP THE WATER (4) will make his debut for local trainer Kevin Coetzee and will be first up since finishing unplaced in the G1 Tunku Gold Cup on March 29. Prior to that the gelding was placed in the Listed Wilyah Silver Bowl and has been competitive in the high grades in Selangor since crossing from Singapore. Stable mate WINNING STRIDE (5) has been a model of consistency since joining the Coetzee camp late last year and has maintained good form since finishing runner up in the 2000m G1 Perak Derby back in March. The seven-year-old drops back from the mile but he is quite versatile over a vast range of distances. The lightweights should not be underestimated either with FLAWLESS (9) and LEONG MA BISCUIT (10) to carry the minimum 50kg. FLAWLESS (9) is yet to prove himself at this level and has struggled since winning a Class 4 contest here back in early February. However, he can provide the value for the exotics on best form while LEONG MA BISCUIT (10) faces his toughest assignment so far and wasn’t disgraced when finishing third behind ARIGATO (1) last start. Race 7 Selections: (1) ARIGATO   (2) BANKER’S FIRST   (4) STOP THE WATER   (5) WINNING STRIDE The RM30,000 Urbax Trophy (Race 6) will be the semi-feature on the Sunday card of racing with numerous chances in the fourteen-horse lineup. KONG FU PANDA (2) is verging on a return victory following two encouraging performances for the Peter Lee stable. The seven-year-old may not be in the vein of form he displayed two years ago which saw him take out the 2024 G1 Ipoh Gold Vase, his last career win. However, the gelding has descended to a winnable rating and will get his chance to break the 714-day winning drought. Four-year-old CALIFORNIA WARRIOR (1) was heavily backed into odds-on favorite for his Malaysian debut and it appeared he was short of a run despite his impressive trial form in the lead up. It may pay to forgive that run as the horse displayed good form in New Zealand with two wins from four starts in his former home country, both in wet going. SACRED SKY (6) has picked off three wins this year and looks a winning chance again despite the wide draw. The seven-year-old pulled up broken winded last start but his form prior included three wins from his previous four runs and is expected to bounce back. Stable mate SOUSUI (5) can be hard to follow at times but was back in winning form over 1100m two starts back on May 9 before finishing 3rd over 1000m seven days later. The gelding closed off well without threatening in the race won by another stable mate INFINITE WISDOM (7) that day and is worth considering again. SABAHCAI (10) broke his Class 4 duck in comfortable fashion with a 4.5L win and is a chance to repeat the dose. Race 6 Selections: (2) KONG FU PANDA   (1) CALIFORNIA WARRIOR   (6) SACRED SKY   (5) SOUSUI              

Ryan Moore will need all of his big-race experience at Chantilly on Sunday after Constitution River was handed a difficult draw for the Qatar Prix du Jockey Club. The Aidan O’Brien-trained colt has been one of the most talked-about three-year-olds in Europe this spring and remains a leading contender for France’s version of the Derby. However, his task became much more complicated when he came up with barrier 15 in a field of 16. It is a draw that immediately changed the complexion of the race. The Prix du Jockey Club is run over 2100 metres at Chantilly, where position and rhythm can be crucial, and recent history shows how difficult it can be to win from a wide alley. No horse has won the French Classic from a double-figure draw since New Bay in 2015, which underlines the challenge now facing Constitution River. Bookmakers reacted quickly after the barrier draw, with Constitution River eased slightly in some markets. While he still holds favouritism, the wide gate has added a tactical layer to what already looked a competitive renewal. O’Brien has made it clear that the early stages will be left to Moore, who will need to assess the speed of the race and make quick decisions once the gates open. A lower draw may have created the risk of being boxed in, but from stall 15 the problem is very different. Moore must now decide whether to press forward, look for cover, or take his medicine and hope the colt can settle before producing his best late. Adding to the intrigue is the fact Constitution River will be racing right-handed around a bend for the first time. He has already shown his quality with a strong victory in the Dee Stakes at Chester, but Chantilly presents a new test. Chester is tight, flat and turning, while the Prix du Jockey Club is a more demanding race that often exposes any weakness in balance, stamina or race craft. Even so, there is no doubt the Ballydoyle team hold Constitution River in very high regard. The son of Wootton Bassett has long been viewed as one of O’Brien’s most talented middle-distance colts, and his Chester win suggested he has the pace and staying potential required for this type of contest. The decision to target Chantilly rather than the Epsom Derby also shows the stable believes this race is the right fit for his development. O’Brien will also be represented by Hawk Mountain and Montreal, giving the stable a strong hand as it chases another major French Classic. Hawk Mountain brings Group 1 form into the race and arrives off a win in the Prix de Guiche, a recognised trial for the Prix du Jockey Club. He has drawn barrier 11, which is not ideal, but Christophe Soumillon takes the ride and the colt will wear blinkers as connections look to sharpen his focus after showing signs of greenness in his lead-up win. Montreal, another Ballydoyle runner, has drawn more kindly in barrier eight. He was only narrowly beaten in the Prix de Suresnes and is reported to have continued improving since that performance. While he may not have the same profile as Constitution River, he gives O’Brien another genuine tactical option in the race. The British and Irish challenge does not end there. Karl Burke’s Hankelow has been given an excellent opportunity from barrier one, with Clifford Lee booked to ride. He comes into the race after finishing third in the Poule d’Essai des Poulains and now steps up in trip with a draw that should allow him to secure a soft run. John and Thady Gosden have also entered the picture with Oxagon, who was supplemented earlier in the week. His draw in stall three gives Oisin Murphy options, and his previous form suggests the extra distance could bring improvement. He won the Craven Stakes before finishing sixth in the 2000 Guineas, and this race now gives him the chance to prove he is more than just a miler. There is also strong local interest. Dolmalan, one of two runners associated with the Aga Khan Studs, has drawn well in barrier six, while Daryzan will break from stall ten. Andre Fabre’s Komorebi, to be ridden by William Buick, has barrier seven after finishing runner-up to Rayif in the Poule d’Essai des Poulains. German runner Gostam, trained by Andreas Wohler and ridden by Billy Loughnane, also has a workable draw in stall five. The final declarations confirmed that Ballydoyle outsiders Dorset and Endorsed would not take their place, while Peace Of Japan was also absent from the field. For all the depth in the race, the central storyline remains Constitution River. He may be the most talented horse in the field, but the draw has turned this into a genuine test of class, temperament and tactical judgement. Moore will not have the luxury of a straightforward run from the gate, and the first few hundred metres could shape the entire race. If Constitution River can overcome stall 15 and win, it would be a major statement. Not only would he justify the confidence from Ballydoyle, he would also defy a draw pattern that has proved difficult in the Prix du Jockey Club for more than a decade. By Scott Bailey – iRACE

Eagle Farm will take centre stage this Saturday with two Group 1 contests bringing together very different storylines. The staying test of the Queensland Derby and the high-class weight-for-age speed of the Kingsford Smith Cup. The Sky Racing Queensland Derby over 2400 metres has again assembled a deep field of three-year-olds, with the race carrying $1 million in prizemoney and continuing its reputation as one of the most important staying features of the Brisbane Winter Carnival. It is a race that often does more than crown a Derby winner. In recent years, it has become a strong reference point for horses who later attract interest from Hong Kong and the wider Asian racing market. That link is easy to understand. The Queensland Derby asks young horses to show stamina, toughness and maturity at a time of year when many are still developing. Those qualities are heavily valued in Hong Kong, particularly with the Hong Kong Derby and four-year-old staying programme in mind. Horses such as Werther, Eagle Way, Ruthven and Dark Dream have all helped build that pathway, with the race becoming a proven source of horses capable of progressing into serious Asian prospects. This year’s Derby has a clear form anchor through the Group 3 Rough Habit Plate, where Kilman announced himself as a major player. Trained by Chris Waller and ridden again by Ryan Maloney, Kilman comes into the race off a strong 2000-metre victory at Doomben, having defeated Beauty Swift and Providence. The performance suggested he was improving at the right time, and the move to 2400 metres now gives him the chance to confirm that staying promise at Group 1 level. Beauty Swift is one of the most interesting runners in the field, not only because of his form but also because of his ownership profile and future potential. The gelding is raced by the Kwok family, well known in Hong Kong through the champion Beauty Generation, and there is already a natural Asian racing angle attached to his Derby campaign. He was only beaten just over a length by Kilman in the Rough Habit and looks the type of progressive stayer who could continue to improve with distance. Providence gives Chris Waller another major hand in the race. He has been competitive through the Sydney autumn and was placed behind Kilman and Beauty Swift in the Rough Habit. With James McDonald booked, he brings a strong rider profile and enough recent form to be considered one of the key contenders. He was also runner-up in the Frank Packer Plate before his Queensland lead-up, which gives him a solid foundation for the step to 2400 metres. Monopolistic is another Waller-trained runner with upside. His last-start Gosford win over 2100 metres showed that he is building as a staying horse, and while this is a significant rise in grade, he arrives with confidence and the profile of a horse still on the way up. Accidental Bid also adds depth, having won back-to-back races at Pakenham before finishing midfield in the Rough Habit. His earlier margins suggested genuine staying talent, and he may be capable of producing better if he settles into the race. The Derby picture is not limited to the obvious names. Buthelezi has been racing consistently and comes through a strong Flemington 2000-metre form line, while Michelangelo arrives in winning form after victories at Bathurst and Hawkesbury. Those runners give the race an open feel beyond the main market, especially if the Eagle Farm tempo becomes testing late. The Kingsford Smith Cup presents a very different type of Group 1 challenge. Run over 1300 metres under weight-for-age conditions, it has drawn a field stacked with proven talent and established Group 1 performers. It is a race that sits perfectly between the pure sprinting profile of the Doomben 10,000 and the broader Stradbroke Handicap pathway, making it a crucial winter carnival contest. Jimmysstar brings one of the strongest recent profiles into the race and has been prominent in early discussion around the market. His rise through the sprinting ranks has been impressive, and this race gives him the opportunity to stamp himself as a genuine elite-level performer in Queensland. The 1300-metre distance looks suitable, particularly if he can settle within striking range and produce his turn of foot at the right stage. Private Eye adds proven Group 1 class and experience. He has mixed it with Australia’s best sprinters and milers over several seasons and commands respect whenever he turns up in a race of this nature. Freshened into this assignment, he has the quality to be highly competitive if he brings his best form. Giga Kick is another headline name with serious star power. A winner at the top level including an Everest at three years old and one of the most recognisable sprinters in the country, he adds real depth to the Kingsford Smith Cup. His best form would make him one of the horses to beat, and his presence alone gives the race a national feel. Fangirl brings class from the Waller stable and has long been one of the elite mares in Australian racing. While she is better known around the mile, her ability to sprint well fresh and her overall Group 1 quality make her a fascinating runner at 1300 metres. Rothfire is another Queensland favourite with an outstanding record at the top level, and he will again carry strong local interest as he looks to show that he remains a force in elite company. King Of Roseau also deserves attention as one of the emerging horses in the race. He has developed a strong winning habit and comes in with momentum, which can be dangerous in a high-pressure sprint. Transatlantic is another runner who looks capable of improving second-up, particularly if he maps well and gets the right run. For racing fans in Australia and Asia, Saturday offers more than two feature races. It offers a glimpse of where future staying talent may emerge, while also bringing some of the country’s best sprinters and weight-for-age performers together on one of Queensland racing’s biggest stages. By Scott Bailey

Trainer Kelly Mitchley must be well proud of the job she is doing with Bad Medicine, as he has won all four of his starts since joining her yard, and he is clearly the one to beat in Race 6, a Pinnacle Stakes over 2400m at Fairview on Friday. Heavy rain caused last Friday’s meeting to move to the Polytrack, so hopefully we return to the turf this week. Bad Medicine has been successful in six of his 21 starts and was second twice and third twice. He has three wins in six starts over this distance and remains unbeaten in two starts over this particular course and distance. This four-year-old gelding is still improving, so has a bright future, and his rider Muzi Yeni has a record of four wins from four starts aboard him. He beat a number of these rivals last time out over 2800m at this course. That distance may have stretched him, as he does seem far better over this shorter distance. Home Reef was only 0.50 lengths adrift of Bad Medicine that day and is 1.50kg better off, so his supporters will be hoping to turn the tables this time around, but a look at his two previous performances shows thorough beatings. Juan Carlos and Anatolian Silver have finished not far behind Bad Medicine in the past and could be dangers, but it will probably be Richard Fourie and Bournemouth who will be doing the challenging late in the race. Bournemouth has been unreliable of late but does run well for Fourie and is best weighted for this race on his best form. Earlier on this card, in Race 5, a MR 80 Handicap for fillies and mares over 1400m, Mitchley could score with either One Dance or Captain’s Jet. One Dance is very consistent with blinkers on and was unlucky last week. She takes a drop in class for this race but will be giving most of her rivals chunks of weight. It could be worth noting that Muzi Yeni is carded to be aboard Captain’s Jet. This three-year-old filly is not well drawn but could be a threat. Trainer Alan Greeff, as is usual, has many chances of picking up some wins, but the best of his runners on this card could be Detailed Forecast, who runs in Race 7, a MR 78 Handicap over 1200m. This Gimmethegreenlight filly has won two of her three local starts and looks to have more wins in her tank.   Clive Robinson

There are easier ways to attack Thursday’s eight-race Vaal card than trying to oppose the yard of Sean Tarry. The Highveld powerhouse arrives at the 28 May fixture with his string firing and, on paper at least, looks capable of dominating the programme with as many as four winners. For Pick 3 punters hunting a healthy mid-meeting payout, the prospect of a Tarry treble from Races 4 and 6 is particularly appealing. The raid should begin in Race 4 where War Reporter looks primed to keep the momentum rolling under Keagan de Melo. The son of Vercingetorix shaped with promise when returning from a lengthy absence before stepping forward sharply to score in commanding fashion over 1600m last time out, a victory that understandably earned him a six-point rating hike. Even so, there is every chance the four-year-old still has more to offer. He remains lightly raced for his age, this being only his 12th career outing, and the manner of that latest success suggests he is beginning to put everything together. Carrying 62kg won’t make life easy, but progressive horses often shrug off penalties and War Reporter has the profile of one still ahead of the handicapper. Tarry holds a strong hand again in Race 5 over 1200m and a stable Exacta/Quinella would surprise nobody. Mystical Miss has been holding her own in stronger company and should appreciate this ease in grade, especially with the benefit of a valuable 1.5kg claim. But from a betting perspective, Maverick Queen makes greater appeal at the likely prices. The daughter of Captain Of All has compiled an excellent record at this level, winning twice and finishing second once from four attempts, and her recent form lines in stronger company read well in the context of this race. Freshened for 13 weeks and now racing off a reduced mark, she looks the type to outrun market expectations under promising rider Malesele Katjedi. Race 6 could then complete the Tarry Pick 3 with Rabble Rouser standing out as one of the more attractive bets on the programme. De Melo reunites with the progressive daughter of Rafeef, who created a favourable impression when winning on debut over 1160m before losing little in defeat at Hollywoodbets Greyville. That KwaZulu-Natal effort was better than it reads on paper as Rabble Rouser showed good speed, led for much of the journey and was only collared late – beaten just 0.65-lengths over 1400m. The drop back to 1200m looks ideal for her aggressive style and, with natural improvement likely in just her third outing, Tarry’s charge rates a serious winning proposition. She is very much one to keep onside going forward. Another of the yard’s major winning chances comes in Race 8 where Trail Runner is primed to continue her productive spell in blinkers. This daughter of Lancaster Bomber has improved markedly since the headgear was fitted, winning three races and placing once from five starts with the headgear. She arrives off a gutsy victory in a 1200m work riders’ contest on the Classic track earlier this month and, crucially, escapes without a penalty for that success. Off an unchanged mark and back over the same trip, Trail Runner looks capable of giving the Tarry stable a fourth strike on a card that could easily turn into a one-yard benefit.   Clive Robinson

Tuesday’s nine-race Vaal Classic meeting may lack feature-race status, but it presents punters with a competitive card packed with betting opportunities. Strong representation from the Fabian Habib and Mike and Mathew de Kock yards could prove key, while Marco van Rensburg and Callan Murray hold several notable rides.

Fabian Habib could strike early with Samuel Sharpe in the opening 1800m maiden. The Flower Alley gelding has steadily improved and was not entirely comfortable over 2000m last time when chasing home a useful rival. First-time blinkers are applied, often a significant move from this stable, and only slight improvement may be needed for him to break through.

The De Kock team counters strongly in Race 2 with Staggerwing, who brings solid juvenile form into the 1000m contest. The daughter of Rafeef returns from an 80-day break after contesting Listed company and now drops into much calmer waters. Her early form suggests she has above-average speed, and Callan Murray, who has partnered her in all three starts, retains the ride.

Marco van Rensburg’s first leading chance comes in Race 4 aboard Cartagena. Heather Adamson’s mare caught the eye when finishing strongly into third over 2000m in her comeback run and now steps up to 2400m, a move likely to suit the five-year-old perfectly. She should strip fitter and meets a modest staying field, making her a lively each-way contender.

Race 6 looks more competitive, but Rock My Boat has claims despite a difficult draw. The Chris Jonker-trained gelding finally shed his maiden tag at the 15th attempt, though his consistency suggested the win had been overdue. He now enters handicap company carrying top weight over 1800m, but this field lacks depth and further improvement is possible.

The De Kock-Murray combination reappears in Race 7 with Sosoru, one of the strongest contenders on the card. The son of Vercingetorix has won his last two starts in front-running fashion and now chases a hat-trick despite dropping back to 1000m and rising in grade. An eight-point penalty makes life tougher, but in-form speedsters are always dangerous around the Vaal.

Habib could have the final word in Race 8 with Catfish, who may offer excellent value. The Danon Platina gelding did too much too early in a sales race last time before fading late, but the return to 1000m is ideal. His sprint form prior to that effort was solid, and apprentice Blaine Marx-Jacobson’s claim further strengthens his chances.

  Clive Robinson

Video Stars Race 3 – 3 FLOWING RICHES He had little luck last start after jumping from a wide draw and being forced to race wide throughout. After covering extra ground for much of the journey, he was entitled to weaken in the straight and eventually finished eighth, beaten 6.5 lengths over 1200m on the All-Weather track. The switch back to turf, where his only career victory was recorded, looks a positive and he should be right in the mix with a kinder run in transit. Race 6 – 3 HAROLD WIN After being pressured early to race outside the leader last start, he stuck on reasonably well in the straight to finish 10th over this track and distance. However, the run was better than it appears on paper, as he was beaten only 3.25 lengths after contesting strong early sectionals well inside the standard. With the drop back to Class 4 this week, he is expected to be more competitive given his solid record at this level. Sectional Stars Race 1 – 14 PERFECTO MOMENTS In a strongly run race last start, he was caught wide from the 700m before sticking on gamely to finish fourth over 1650m at Happy Valley. With a kinder run in transit, a Top 3 finish was within reach as he was beaten by only two lengths. Well weighted in this week’s field, he deserves another chance. Race 5 – 1 LUCKY TWIN STARS Despite being held up over the final 50m, he still recorded the third-fastest final 400m to finish seventh over 1650m at Happy Valley last time out. The return to Class 4, where he boasts a 50% strike rate, looks a significant positive and he could prove a value chance against easier opposition.

By Press Association Sport Reporters Gstaad will aim to go one better than at Newmarket when he heads a field of 10 for the Tattersalls Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh on Saturday. Aidan O’Brien’s colt had a busy time of things as a juvenile and was second in three Group Ones before finally getting his day in the sun at the Breeders’ Cup. Following some drama regarding his entry status prior to the Newmarket Guineas, he was the only horse to seriously give Bow Echo a race and is a long odds-on favourite to claim his own Classic. Charlie Appleby’s Distant Storm, third at Newmarket but some eight lengths behind Gstaad, is next in the betting with the Godolphin trainer looking to add to his win in the race with Native Trail in 2022. Billy Loughnane deputises for the suspended William Buick. Appleby also runs Pacific Avenue, with O’Brien’s second string being Neolithic. Thesecretadversary, trained by Fozzy Stack, was not disgraced at Newmarket and is another with live claims. One horse who skipped the British Classic was Karl Burke’s Alparslan. He won the Greenham when he had Zavateri and Albert Einstein behind him. Power Blue, a Group One winner for Adrian Murray last season, now represents Robson Aguiar in the Amo Racing silks. Go Just Do It, Bamako Beach and Take Charge Star complete the field for the first Irish Classic of the season.

The HK$13 million G1 Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup (2400m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (24 May) will centre around the performance of overwhelming favourite Romantic Warrior – Hong Kong racing’s superstar. Adding further interest is the participation of two foreign horses. One is the eight-year-old Deep Monster, who captured his first Group race victory in the 2025 G2 Kyoto Daishoten (2400m) before winning the 2026 G2 H.H. The Amir Trophy (2400m) in Qatar. The other is seven-year-old Rousham Park, who makes his third trip to Hong Kong for trainer Hiroyasu Tanaka. Tanaka said: “I became aware of this race during last year’s LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (G1, 2000m). Since it is not a familiar race to the Japanese racing people and fans, and because I believe this horse is better suited to 2400 metres than 2000 metres, we had been considering it as one of our target races.” Bred by Northern Farm and owned by Sunday Racing Co. Ltd, Rousham Park won both the G3 Hakodate Kinen and the G2 Sankei Sho All Comers in 2023, both over 2000 metres. From his debut in September, 2021 until September, 2023, he collected six wins from ten starts, along with two seconds and one third, showing remarkable consistency. He made his first overseas trip for the 2023 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup and finished eighth. He then narrowly missed victory in the G1 Osaka Hai (2000m), finishing second by a neck, in his first start of 2024. Later that year, he produced a strong performance in the G1 Breeders’ Cup Turf (2400m), finishing a close second behind Rebel’s Romance. In April last year, Rousham Park travelled to Sydney, Australia for the 2025 G1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) – his third overseas campaign – but finished seventh behind Via Sistina. After returning to Japan and running in the G1 Takarazuka Kinen (2200m) in June, he underwent throat surgery. He returned in a Group 2 race last November, where he finished 12th, and Tanaka was optimistic following that effort: “I expected that it would be a hard task for him coming off surgery, but I think he performed better than expected.” Rousham Park then showed determination to finish fifth in the LONGINES Hong Kong Cup on 14 December at Sha Tin. Tanaka said: “That fifth-place finish in the Hong Kong Cup came during a period when we might have felt Rousham Park’s ability was beginning to decline. We had planned to target this race if he could run well in one domestic start during the spring campaign, because there are very few suitable 2400 metre races in Japan aside from the 2500-metre Meguro Kinen (G2).” In his first start of this year, the G2 Nikkei Sho (2500m), Rousham Park finished third, beaten by only 0.2 seconds, and showed little sign of decline despite being a seven-year-old. “After his last race, he returned to the pre-training farm of Northern Farm, where he recovered well without any damage, and he came back to my stable on 28 April. He stayed at the quarantine stable alone before the trip to Hong Kong, but his final workout was very good and everything has gone smoothly.” Tanaka also spoke positively about the environment in Hong Kong and the horse’s suitability for the race conditions. “Sha Tin has excellent quarantine facilities, and this horse has already travelled there twice for the LONGINES (Hong Kong) International Races in December. I think it’s a wonderful event – I’d even like to go every year. I also love Hong Kong itself. We haven’t achieved the best result we wanted there yet, but I believe 2000 metres is right on the limit for Rousham Park and can reduce his overall performance,” he said. “I feel he is much better suited to 2400 metres. The track surface should suit him well, and although it is the rainy season, his sire is Harbinger, so I do not see the pedigree as a disadvantage. He has already won at Hakodate, which has a similar grass to Sha Tin, so I don’t think turf conditions will be an issue either. He also handles humidity and heat well.” Tanaka also talked about facing Romantic Warrior for a third time: “Romantic Warrior is an exceptionally strong horse who has maintained his level for many years as a champion. I’m looking forward to competing against him. The 2400-metre distance should work in Rousham Park’s favour, and with signs that he is returning to form, I hope he can produce a performance that surprises people. I have high hopes now.” Sunday’s (24 May) 11-race fixture at Sha Tin begins at 12.30pm with the Class 5 Standard Chartered Digital Assets Handicap (1600m). By Mariko Seki