An in-form David Eustace hopes Colourful King (128lb) can continue to advance when the three-year-old contests the Class 3 Hong Kong China Rugby Cup Handicap (1000m) under Andrea Atzeni on Wednesday night (9 March) at Happy Valley. Eustace revelled in a first Hong Kong treble on Sunday (7 April) at Sha Tin and the 32-year-old is eyeing more momentum when he saddles four runners – Brave Witness, Colourful King, Jumbo Fortune and Charity Together – at tomorrow’s nine-race card. Sired by Blue Point, Colourful King has raced twice in Hong Kong, winning his most recent effort by a nose over Youthful Spirits (134lb), who he reopposes from barrier four following that victory laden with courage and aptitude on 19 March. “He did by the barest of margins. It certainly looked like luck went our way that night and it’s good to get the win obviously. He’s a horse who I think will continue to improve. “He’s the type of horse who is a still a bit nervy and a bit unsure of himself, so I think he can gradually improve with the more racing he has,” Eustace said. “It was great to get the win and hopefully he can keep progressing.” Youthful Spirits steps away from gate eight. Harmony N Blessed (135lb), Eternal Fortune (131lb), Casa Of Honor (126lb), Seasons Wit (123lb), Basic Instinct (120lb), Watch This One (119lb), King Eccellente (117lb) and Multidutch (116lb) complete the field. “It does look like they’ll go fairly quick and he has a nice gate to stalk and be strong late. The encouraging thing for me as well is that he looks like he’ll get 1200 (metres), especially around the Valley when asked to. It does just give us options,” Eustace said. Eustace has 23 wins through his first season training in Hong Kong. His treble last weekend came via Regency Happy Star, Good Luck Babe and Sea Sapphire. “You obviously don’t go expecting that by any means but I thought we had a strong hand and the horses were racing well. Hoping to get one, maybe two but to get three was a great thrill. It shows the horses are in good form and the staff are working hard and well,” Eustace said. Jerry Chau seeks wins at consecutive fixtures when he gets the leg up on Super Joy N Fun in the Class 3 Ho Man Tin Handicap (1200m) for trainer Benno Yung. The pair missed by three quarters of a length last start on 19 March. “Last time he had a good draw and we found the perfect position. He finished well and he always tries hard,” Chau said. “Before last time we put him at Sha Tin and tried the 1400 metres – he didn’t show better (form) than at Happy Valley, that’s why we’re back to his best distance and course.” Karis Teetan also jubilated with a three-timer on Sunday. He goes for a first win with Triumphant Warrior for trainer Danny Shum in the third section of the Class 4 King’s Park Handicap (1200m). “I thought he ran a good race last time from where he came from (barrier 11). He seems to be running well lately. I am looking forward to riding him,” Teetan said. “Danny has the horse in really good form – I galloped him yesterday (Monday, 7 April) and he felt good.” Matthew Poon worked two key FWD Champions Day hopes in barrier trials this morning (Tuesday, 8 April) ahead of the HK$74 million showcase on 27 April at Sha Tin. Stepping out in the first heat ahead of a possible HK$22 million G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m) return, Lucky Sweynesse broke smoothly from the wide draw before picking up between runners to win in 57.95s over 1000m on turf at Sha Tin. “I think with every trial he is getting better and better. Now he is almost ready to race, if he pulls up well, then he is almost ready to race,” Poon said. Lucky Sweynesse hasn’t competed since April, 2024. He is a 16-time winner – including four times at Group 1 level – from 24 career starts in Hong Kong. Ahead of a budding clash with Australian star Mr Brightside in the HK$24 million G1 FWD Champions Mile (1600m), Ricky Yiu’s Voyage Bubble impressed Poon as he crossed in first over the mile on turf in 1m 36.68s. “He jumped super, he knows what to do – he travelled nicely and relaxed. I just asked him a little bit and he quickens. How good is that? He’s so relaxed, he jumps super and then next to other horses he can switch off, save energy and then you give him a little signal and he just goes,” Poon said. Wednesday’s (9 April) nine-race fixture at Happy Valley kicks off at 6.40pm with the Class 5 Yau Ma Tei Handicap (1650m). By Declan Schuster

Continuing a prodigious rise among Hong Kong’s training ranks, David Eustace celebrated the first treble of his career in the city on Sunday afternoon (6 April) at Sha Tin following the victories of Regency Happy Star, Good Luck Babe and Sea Sapphire. “I thought we were coming here with a strong team and probably our first three runners proved that with two winners and a second. This is a nice surprise. They’ve all raced well and consistent, so it’s very pleasing,” Eustace said. Enjoying a rewarding first campaign in Hong Kong with 23 wins, Eustace, 32, – formerly in partnership with Ciaron Maher in Australia – struck initially with Regency Happy Star in the Class 5 Chung Chi Alumni Handicap (1400m) under Alexis Badel. Eustace said: “He’s had a terrific season – just gaining confidence and relaxing very well now in his races. Obviously, the distance and the track is perfect for him and he’s been ridden beautifully by Alexis. It’s going to start to get a bit tougher, but hopefully we can have one more go in Class 5. I think we probably should for one more run.” Regency Happy Star has won three of his last five starts. Good Luck Babe outlasted rivals in the Class 4 United Alumni Handicap (1600m) under Karis Teetan, while Sea Sapphire (118lb) showed plenty of fight to capture the Class 4 CUHK Alumni Cup Handicap (1200m) with Ben Thompson over debut winner Akashvani (135lb). Eustace’s previous best Hong Kong hauls were two doubles, while Teetan’s own treble began aboard Top Throne, who made his second start a winning one for trainer David Hayes in the second section of the Class 4 New Asia Alumni Handicap (1200m). “He ran great in his first run. He actually did many things wrong but to still run where he ran was a great effort and we thought he would always improve from that, which he did,” Teetan said. Teetan closed his three as youngster Mr Cool surged to a first victory at his second start in the Class 4 Morningside Alumni Handicap (1400m) for trainer Frankie Lor. The Maurice gelding races for the same owner as former Group 1 star Mr Stunning. “Things have been a bit slow but I just kept my head down and kept punching along. I thought I had a few decent rides today and some of the draws went my way, too. “It’s turned out to be a great day. I said to the owner ‘this is one of my favourite set of silks’ in Hong Kong because of Mr Stunning. On debut at Happy Valley, he just didn’t know where he was but he ran a great race and we knew he would improve a lot. “You could see today, not many horses won from where he was but the speed was on and I was happy where I was. When I asked him, he really responded well and I just want to say well done to the connections and well done to all the trainers sticking with me and giving me support – I really appreciate it,” Teetan said. One of Hong Kong racing’s most dependable performers, Voyage Samurai (121lb) added a fifth win at his 13th start to his burgeoning record this afternoon in the Class 2 Faculty Of Education Alumni Handicap (1600m) under Derek Leung for Lor. Pressing forward atop the Dissident gelding, Leung made all for victory in the HK$3.12 million contest with Voyage Samurai, who stopped the clock at 1m 34.78s ahead of Helene Feeling (135lb) and Winning Dragon (125lb), respectively. Leung said: “Finally, I got another win on him! He’s been very honest this season and even before. He was just beaten last time by a better horse, this time the field didn’t seem as strong. He controlled the pace and he didn’t mind the fast tempo – I’m happy.” Sky Jewellery – touted as a 2026 Four-Year-Old Classic Series prospect – continued his sparkling ascendance with a dominant victory in the Class 3 Wu Yee Sun And Lee Woo Sing Alumni Handicap (1600m) under Hugh Bowman for trainer John Size. Bowman said: “He’s a nice horse. He’s still learning his trade though but he was aided by a really solidly run mile. When he got in amongst horses, that was the first time he’s had that, he was a bit new to it but he had time to get himself together and understand what was going on. “I had a clear passage when I needed to move and I had time to get him organised before I let him down and the response was there for everyone to see.” Geneva scooped a third win this season from six runs. David Hall’s Capitalist gelding was the beneficiary of a superb Brenton Avdulla drive in the Class 3 Shaw Alumni Handicap (1200m) – his first success in the grade at his 10th start. Avdulla savoured a double when Brilliant Express – also trained by Size – netted his third win in the Class 3 S.H. Ho And CW Chu Alumni Handicap (1400m). Avdulla now has 36 triumphs this season and holds fourth place in the Hong Kong jockeys’ standings. Jerry Chau guided Embellish gelding Chateau Le Peche to a first win by a short head for trainer Jimmy Ting in the Class 5 Graduate School Alumni Handicap (2000m). Hong Kong racing continues at Happy Valley on Wednesday night (9 April). By Declan Schuster

Highveld big-hitters Tony Peter and Sean Tarry dominate the midweek card on Turffontein’s Standside track on Tuesday 8 April, with both powerhouse stables good value for three race victories at the eight-race fixture so punters will do well to follow either – or both – leading trainers by taking advantage of several attractive betting propositions out of both yards. Tarry-trained Golden Alexia turned in a disappointing performance behind highly regarded Immediate Edge in her last start, but the daughter of Pomodoro had legitimate excuses for that display. She was found to be not striding out in a post-race examination by the on-course veterinarian so that run is best ignored. On the evidence of her two previous outings, Tarry’s charge needs only to bounce back to her earlier form to win the 1400m opener (Race 1) under work rider Mkhumbuzi. Stablemate Green Street filled the runners-up spot for the second time in three starts when last seen and this Tarry-trained Gimmethegreenlight filly needn’t improve much – if at all – to go one better and open her account in Race 4 over 1400m with title-chasing Craig Zackey aboard. Consistent stayer To The Rescue chased home veteran hard-knocker Romeo’s Magic over 2400m last time out but Tarry’s charge meets his familiar foe on 2.5kg better terms for a 2.40-length beating so is good value to avenge that defeat under regular rider Kabelo Matsunyane in their course-and-distance rematch in Race 6. Gavin Lerena, who is embroiled in a three-way title tussle with Zackey and Richard Fourie for the National Jockeys’ Championship, will likely boot home each of Peter’s three winners on the day. Querari filly Art Nouveau should break her duck in Race 5 over 1800m while stablemate Hong Kong, an Ideal World filly, is expected to double her account in Race 8 over 1160m after an encouraging comeback second over 1200m last month. Peter’s highly rated three-year-old Buffalo Storm Cody couldn’t have been more impressive on his return from a rest, during which he was gelded, as he spreadeagled his opposition to win by more than eight lengths over 1200m just 19 days ago. This son of Buffalo Bill Cody copped a six-penalty for that performance but remains open to improvement and is probably still ahead of the handicapper, so it could pay to follow his progress in Race 7 over 1160m. Clive Robinson

Video Stars Race 3 No 5 DAZZLING FIT He had no luck on debut 22 days ago, traveling smoothly off the speed before running into trouble in the straight. Between the 200m and 100m, he struggled for clear galloping room, and by the time he found daylight in the concluding stages, the race was already beyond reach. Despite this setback, his sixth-place finish was creditable, and with better luck in running, he has every chance to make amends second-up. Race 8 No 7 SHAMUS STORM The change of tactics didn’t work in his favour last time out, as he settled closer to the speed but weakened in the straight, finishing eighth over this track and distance. Before that, he showed promise on debut, finishing a strong second after running on well. His impressive recent trial suggests he will revert to a more conservative racing style, and with that adjustment, improvement is expected. Sectional Stars Race 4 No 2 BEATO Well-rated in Class 4, he flashed home late to grab third over this track and distance last time out, despite encountering minor traffic issues in the straight. With his sharp turn of foot, he will be a major threat late—provided the race unfolds in his favour. Race 7 No 4 C P BRAVE It’s worth overlooking his last start, where he showed little after settling off the speed from a wide draw. Instead, focus on his eye-catching effort two starts ago, when he finished strongly into third in a slowly run race. Notably, the winner, MOMENTS IN TIME, has since franked the form with a solid third in a subsequent Group 2 feature.

Graduates of the 2023 New Zealand Bloodstock Ready to Run Sale will be displaying their wares in the RM 150,000 NZB Ready To Run 2023 Graduate Cup (Race 9) over 1400m at the Selangor Turf Club on Sunday. DUMA enters the race with the highest rating and should grasp the opportunity of returning to winning form against his own age group. The Frank Maynard trained gelding appeared uncomfortable when trapped wide throughout last start but can be forgiven as his form prior should stand him in good stead. Although he is yet to win in three runs this campaign, DUMA does possess a quick turn of acceleration and from the better draw, he might be the one they have to beat in the set weights feature. The high grade 1400m Supreme A contest (Race 8) has attracted only eight acceptors and a good clash ensues with handy former Singapore galloper, MR BLACK BACK pitted against talented local sprinter WITNESSIMPACT. MR BLACK BACK contested multiple group events when based in Kranji, including a Group Two win in 2023, and resumes since finishing unplaced in last year’s Singapore Gold Cup. The seven year old will debut for the Johnny Lim stable and is one to watch on his Malaysian debut. The form of WITNESSIMPACT has tapered off since winning five from his first six runs in the country with unplaced efforts in the Wilyah Silver Bowl and the G1 Tunku Gold Cup. The five year old is a fast beginner where he has had to sustain early pressure in recent defeats plus different tactics adopted in the Tunku Cup failed so no doubt will be rolling forward from barrier rise on this occasion. The Ricky Choi has been firing this year with eleven winners so far striking at just over 20% and former Macau performer, PLATINUM FORT could add to the tally come Sunday. Engaged in the 1020m Supreme A contest (Race 10), PLATINUM FORT was far from disgraced when resuming in the G1 Tunku Gold Cup three weeks ago where he began fast from barrier eight and nearly led. Race fitness eventually gave way before he faded to finish 4th, beaten 5.5 lengths and he will strip fitter this time around. The horse which denied him the lead that day was PACIFIC VAMPIRE, who was able to utilize pole position and muster enough pace to lead initially. The five year old faded quickly after setting a genuine tempo from the start but like PLATINUM FORT, the small field will suit and he looks the logical leader. A quick form turnaround would not surprise as he yet to strike his best in three Malaysian runs so far.

It’s an exciting time for Hong Kong racing right now, which is loaded with fresh and exciting talent. The Four-Year-Old Classic Series saw three emerging forces – My Wish, Rubylot and Cap Ferrat – rise, while the likes of Fast Network continue to make waves. David Hayes’ phenomenal four-year-old Ka Ying Rising has been the pin-up star this season with seven wins, headlined by three at Group 1 level. As well, further down the totem pole, Sky Jewellery and Crossborderpegasus have put their hands up, to name a few, much like The Boom Box – Chris So’s dazzling three-time winner. Returning to action in Sunday’s (6 April) Class 3 S.H. Ho And CW Chu Alumni Handicap (1400m) at Sha Tin, The Boom Box – rated 75 – will once again shoulder top-weight as he aims to recapture his winning thread which was halted on 9 March by half a length at Sha Tin. So said: “The horse keeps learning, he keeps improving and even last time it was quite tough and he was still so close. He’s only a four-year-old and he only started racing this season – he’s shown ability. I really hope he stays healthy and keeps improving.” The Spirit Of Boom gelding has turned heads across four appearances with his explosive finish and conviction to weave between runners. So has booked championship-leading rider Zac Purton this weekend when his charge breaks from barrier two under 135lb. “He’s won three times and finished third once. Last start he went up in distance with top weight and his draw wasn’t ideal, but he still ran very well. He was very close. Karis (Teetan) did a really good job. Zac is on this time. I hope everything goes smoothly and I think he can be competitive,” So said. Keefy (131lb) is one of 11 opposing The Boom Box on Sunday. Frankie Lor’s six-year-old gelding returned his first top three finish this season as an outsider on 15 March. “Last time it was a big surprise. He kept going and he finished a close third. I hope he can be more consistent now and I think Class 3 is suitable,” Lor said. “He won last season in Class 2 with a light weight.” Matthew Poon rides Keefy for Lor following his grinding third place. Lor also saddles Voyage Samurai against six opponents in the Class 2 Faculty Of Education Alumni Handicap (1600m). The reliable son of Dissident boasts four wins and five seconds from 12 starts. “He looks better with the blinkers on. He still has a little bit of improvement. I hope we can win. It’s a small field, which I think is good for him,” Lor said. “I think he can go a little bit further, maybe 1800 metres. I just hope we can improve – he’s consistent.” Derek Leung pilots Voyage Samurai. Mr Cool heads to Sha Tin for the first time for Lor in Sunday’s Class 4 Morningside Alumni Handicap (1400m). The Maurice three-year-old is raced by Maurice Koo, owner of Lor’s retired Group 1 sprinting star Mr Stunning. “He ran well on debut at Happy Valley. This time we go to 1400 metres. Last time he had a good draw (five), but he didn’t jump very fast. He finished strongly but Happy Valley has a short straight, while Sha Tin has a longer straight, which might be better,” Lor said. David Hayes indicates it’s all systems go towards 27 April’s HK$22 million G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m) for Ka Ying Rising – who won an 11th consecutive race last Sunday (30 March) in the HK$5.35 million G2 Sprint Cup (1200m) at Sha Tin. “He pulled up really well. He will just stay in routine and we’re looking forward to the big race – his last this season,” Hayes said. Second to Ka Ying Rising five times this season, Helios Express also points to the Chairman’s Sprint Prize. Hugh Bowman commended the galloper’s fine effort behind the world’s highest rated sprinter last weekend. “It’s always great to see a good galloper and it’s a shame for Helios Express that he’s come across such a tough competitor. I’d rather finish in front of him not behind him, but Helios can only do his job. I thought he was really fantastic again,” Bowman said. “He continues to develop as a horse. I think he appreciated that little bit of moisture in the ground – I thought his action extended a bit better than maybe last time. He continues to do his job and that’s all we ask.” Bowman heads to Australia this Saturday (5 April) along with Zac Purton, Karis Teetan and Andrea Atzeni. Bowman’s key ride at Royal Randwick is Rivellino in the G1 ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m). “I’m riding Rivellino again who I rode in the Golden Slipper (G1, 1200m). I thought he could have won the race if things worked out a little differently. Take nothing away it’s not like he was a good thing beaten but I think he’s certainly more suited at Randwick and to the 1400 metres – it’d be a significant victory for him if could win the Sires’ Produce,” Bowman said. Sunday’s (6 April) 10-race fixture at Sha Tin commences at 12.45pm with the Class 5 Graduate School Alumni Handicap (2000m). By Declan Schuster

The Sydney Autumn Carnival has already been nothing short of extraordinary, with both local legends and international superstars lighting up the trac, but the action is far from over. Saturday’s showdown features some of the biggest races of the year, including the much-anticipated TJ Smith Stakes and the iconic Doncaster Mile. With the excitement heating up, it’s clear that 2025’s edition will be one to remember. As it stands, the Doncaster Mile is anyone’s race, with a wide-open field, setting the stage for some unpredictable and jaw-dropping moments. Tom Kitten is one to watch, holding a well-deserved spot among the early favourites. This rising star has proven he’s in top form, with his narrow defeat to Mr Brightside in the Futurity Stakes and a stunning victory in the All-Star Mile. Though he faced a setback in the George Ryder, finishing fifth after being too far back, he’s fit, primed, and ready for a big performance. With Ben Melham aboard, you can expect nothing less than a game-changing run. Will the mile distance suit him? Absolutely and he’ll have every opportunity to shine. SKY Racing form expert Brad Gray previews the feature in the video above.

Romantic Warrior has completed his final piece of fast work ahead of the G1 Dubai Turf (1800m) at Meydan on Saturday (5 April), when Danny Shum’s globetrotting champion bids for a Hong Kong record 11th Group 1 victory. Partnered by regular rider James McDonald this morning (Tuesday, 1 April), Romantic Warrior worked with companion Romantic Charm on the course proper, delighting Danny Shum with a leisurely hit-out. “Actually, he’s very fit at the moment so I talked with James McDonald and asked him to give him a happy, easy, smooth gallop on the turf and let him enjoy the work (because) the race is coming and after the gallop James gave me a very positive report,” Shum said. “He (McDonald) said the horse is very fit. He loves the horse. The horse loves it here and he is very happy here.” Reflecting on Romantic Warrior’s G1 Jebel Hatta (1800m) victory in record-breaking time (1m 45.10s) on 24 January, Shum said: “I think at that time, he was about 85 percent fit but he did a great job. It was a great run.” The winner of 18 of 24 starts and world record prizemoney of HK$206.9 million, Romantic Warrior currently shares the Hong Kong record for the most Group 1 triumphs with Golden Sixty and Dubai Turf victory against 10 rivals this weekend would shunt the Acclamation gelding into outright leadership. Narrowly beaten by Japanese dirt superstar Forever Young in the G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt) on 22 February, Romantic Warrior has thrived since returning to Meydan ahead of what is slated to be the final run of another glorious campaign. “Even in the Saudi Cup, even though he ran second, he still broke the record as well. Forever Young was too good on the dirt,” Shum said. “I wanted to cry after the race, Forever Young was very strong but the third horse (Ushba Tesoro) was 10 lengths behind. “So, he (Romantic Warrior) has done a great job already. He’s taken my team everywhere – Australia, Japan, Saudi and Dubai. “This time (in the Dubai Turf), the Japanese horses are very dangerous. The main dangers are the Japanese horses. James will ride him wherever he’s comfortable. He’s got natural speed, so it all depends on the pace. He’s very flexible.” Romantic Warrior will claim a US$500,000 bonus (Approx HK$3.87 million) if he clinches the Dubai Turf against last year’s winner Facteur Cheval and a powerful Japanese squad led by Liberty Island, Soul Rush, Brede Weg and Meisho Tabaru. The Dubai Turf is scheduled to be run at 11.15pm (Hong Kong time) on Saturday. John Size-trained Howdeepisyourlove will bid to give Hong Kong successive victories in the G1 Al Quoz Sprint (1200m) on Saturday. The 116-rater has finished third at Group 1 level behind Ka Ying Rising at his two most recent starts and will this weekend attempt to emulate California Spangle’s 2024 Al Quoz success. As well as riding Howdeepisyourlove in the Al Quoz Sprint at 9.20pm (HKT), McDonald will also partner Frankie Lor-trained Sword Point in the G2 Godolphin Mile (1600m, dirt) at 8.45pm (HKT). By Leo Schlink

A twelve-race program will be conducted at Selangor Turf Club this Saturday with Races 1-9 contested on Course A4 while Track Two will be in operation for Races 10-12. Malaysia’s premier galloper from last year, ANTIPODEAN will be looking to recapture the form which took him to nine wins from ten starts last season. The four-year-old lines up in the 1400m Supreme A contest (Race 9) with former premiership jockey, KC Wong to ride the gelding for the first time. Unbeaten in three runs over the distance, ANTIPODEAN is yet to score in three outings this campaign but his recent 2nd in the G1 Tunku Gold Cup suggests he is back on track. GOLDEN PEGASUS was placed twice in group company last year, including a head 2nd to ANTIPODEAN in the G1 Selangor Gold Cup, and is capable of turning the tables on his arch nemesis first up from a four-month break. Trainer Abdullah Aboo Bakker has experienced a very quiet run over the past twelve months but is a chance of doubling his season win tally with recent stable acquisition, SHOW ALL SIXTY-ONE engaged in the 1200m Class 4A contest (Race 5). Following three consecutive minor placings in Singapore prior to spelling, the six-year-old was sent out a short-priced favorite in his Malaysian debut over 1020m on March 9. Despite receiving a check at the 800m mark, SHOW ALL SIXTY-ONE had the audacity to recover before closing off well to finish a head 2nd behind Dragon Cavallo. The gelding is well placed at the weights with 54.5kg after the claim and both career wins were recorded over the 1200m trip. Former Macau galloper, CHARITY GOLD comes under notice following his third Malaysian start and could provide the value in the 1100m Class 5B event (Race 12). The five-year-old delivered his best local performance here on February 23 when he flashed home from second last at the 400m mark to finish 2.5 lengths 3rd to the inform Outfit over 1020m. The gelding was specked at long odds and despite not winning since August 2023, the winning drought could be broken come Saturday.

A little after 7am Wednesday morning, a tour bus pulled into Harrow Yard at Meydan. A tour group? At that hour of the morning? Well, not exactly. One by one, members of the MyRacehorse micro-share syndicate poured out of the bus and made their way trackside, lining the rail, phones and iPads in hand as they watched American champion sprinter Straight No Chaser turn in an energetic gallop a little more than three days out from his appearance in the G1 Dubai Golden Shaheen (sponsored by Nakheel). The six-year-old will look to become the first to complete the unofficial Sprint Triple Crown when attempting to add the Golden Shaheen to the G1 Breeders’ Cup Sprint and G2 Riyadh Dirt Sprint. “Straight No Chaser is the one that brought us here and as everyone knows, he’s just an awesome horse,” said enthusiastic shareholder Will Diaz. “I am loving it here. It’s been great and I can’t wait for Saturday to come. Boy, he’s amazing, such a tough horse.” About 30 minutes later, trainer Dan Blacker reappeared to exchange pleasantries with the group, easily numbering 50 and each looking like there is no place they’d rather be. “I couldn’t possibly be more excited,” said Diaz. “I’ve been very lucky, I was also involved with [MyRacehorse’s G1 Preakness Stakes winner] Seize The Grey, but this experience is just so great.” “At the end of the day, this is what I am trying to do–to take horses and race them internationally in places like Saudi and Dubai. “It’s been very satisfying to be able to do this for MyRacehorse, to be able to give them these sorts of experiences, and hopefully Straight No Chaser will run another big race this weekend.” by Alan Carasso, DWC Notes Team

Recent arrivals in KZN with half-decent Cape Town form usually do well in their first local run and Gurkha fits the bill in the first at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Sunday. He was a recent arrival with Dean Kannemeyer’s string and his horses gave notice of their wellbeing last week. Punters face a competitive card but Gurkha can get the afternoon off on a winning note although he does face some solid local opposition. Mark Dixon saddles Master Du Rouvray who may just have needed his last effort when returning from a break and should stripe a lot fitter. Firelighter has the best of the draw and was a beaten favourite last run. MJ Odendaal’s charge looks to be in a good space. Black Platina returns from a break but was much improved last run. Wide draw but can feature. The first leg of the bi-pot is a tricky handicap but Beach Palace won well enough in a small field last run. He has been consistent of late and the stable is in form. Mariachi Madness makes the trip from the Highveld for Clinton Binda and comes with some solid recent form although over shorter. Andre Nel has re-united Rafiki with Calvin Habib and their last win was over course and distance although he does carry top weight. Veteran Cotton Ron seldom runs a bad race. He steps up a furlong in trip but does have a 4kg claimer up. Golden Destiny could prove to be one of the better bets on the card as he has won his last two at Hollywood Kenilworth and although going an extra furlong he does have the best of the draw and could still be under the handicappers radar. Danger could be Max The Magician who has a wide draw to contend with but Roy Magner seldom makes the trip from the Highveld and his gelding has shown up well in his last two. Tyrconnell has drawn a little deep but is seldom out of the money and should put in another good effort while Stars In Heaven goes well this trip and has a handy galloping weight although taking on stronger. Festival Of Magic can kick-start the Pick 6 but it is a competitive handicap. Mike and Mathew de Kock’s runner has dropped in the handicap but has been taking on slightly stronger of late. He has a wide draw but cheek pieces could see him improve. Elusive Belle takes on males and if she can reproduce her penultimate run over course and distance with only 49kg to shoulder she will be dangerous.  Count Marsh has the widest draw but was touched off over the trip last time out. He gets Gavin Lerena aboard. Field Marshal disappointed last start after a smart previous effort but he can make amends given his best form. However, Lerena has deserted Field Marshal to partner Spirit Of Levana who he rode last time out and the blinkers have been replaced by cheek pieces. Quatermain has been knocking on the door for some time now and comes with consistent Highveld form. He gets the benefit of Rachel Venniker’s 1.5kg allowance although taking on stronger. View Of The World is hardly ever out of the money and with a more experienced rider aboard cannot be ignored lightly. Binda sends out Inafix in the sixth and the gelding won well enough over the distance last time out and only got a four-point rise in the handicap. He meets modest company and can follow up. My Siraya won first time pout for Stuart Ferrie and although taking on males she is lightly raced and should have a strong chance in this line-up. Arverni Princess has not been out since August last year but had some fair form before the break. She has a handy weight and can surprise. Purple Powahouse has not won for over three years but is never far back. He was running on late last Monday and can feature prominently in this field. Vision To Achieve is struggling for her next win but is seldom far back. She has a big weight but Paul Gadsby looks to have picked the right race for her next win. Sahara Dawn is Sean Tarry’s only runner on the day and she showed up well over course and distance last run and from a good draw should be in the shake-up. Drive By is over her best course and distance and has a 4kg claimer aboard. Stable companion Dynasty’s Last is still a battling maiden but with her light weight has a chance in this line-up. The eighth is a seriously competitive handicap and Alyson Wright’s gelding Slytherin could fit the bill. He surprised on debut and has started at long odds in two subsequent starts. His does appear to be under the handicappers radar. Antonio Gaudi was a recent maiden winner on the Highveld recently but had steady form leading up to that win. He has the best of the draw. Who Blinked has not been far back since shedding his maiden and can feature while stable companion El Dante just needed his last run. His best form is over further but he should come on from his last effort. Kannemeyer can book-end the meeting with Rich Folks Hoax who although he has smart Cape form over a mile he has a handy weight and could prove too classy for this line-up even over this shorter trip. Future Flo will have plenty of supporters but has been climbing the handicap steadily and got an eight-point rise in the handicap last start as the handicappers try to put him in his place. He steps up a furlong but is capable. Quandary has been in good form of late and is over his optimum trip and will be a competitive runner while Smorgasbord has been consistent and should also be competitive.

The nine-race card on the Inside track at Turffontein on Saturday 5 April is dominated by jockeys Craig Zackey and S’manga Khumalo, whose rides are likely to win four of the Highveld’s weekend events. Following title-chasing Zackey and the Khumalo, a former champion in his own right, should prove a profitable exercise. Zackey, who is embroiled in a three-way tussle with Richard Fourie and Gavin Lerena for the National Jockeys’ Championship, is particularly strong early on the card and should get the meeting off to a winning start aboard Back From War for trainer Paul Matchett in Race 1, a Maiden Juvenile Plate for fillies over 1450m. This Act Of War filly had legitimate excuses for a disappointing last start over 1000m which was in the Listed Ruffian Stakes, but the step up to an extended trip will suit Matchett’s charge who will also benefit from dropping back into maiden company. Zackey should find the target again in Race 3, a Maiden Plate for fillies and mares over 1200m, on Sean Tarry-trained Trail Runner, a daughter of Lancaster Bomber. This improving three-year-old filly has finished third in consecutive starts over 1400m and 1160m on the Standside track and any improvement from Tarry’s charge in just her fourth career outing will likely land her and Zackey in the winners’ enclosure. Khumalo rides Tony Peter-trained Scars Of War for the first time in Race 5, a Graduation Plate for fillies and mares over 1450m, the same course and distance over which she shed her maiden tag by 9.25 lengths last season. This daughter of Heavenly Blue has not been seen since running in the Grade 1 Thekwini Stakes at Hollywoodbets Greyville at the end of July last year. However, she is weighted to be competitive on her reappearance and Peter’s decision to book Khumalo for the ride is encouraging for her chances. Khumalo has a particularly good record with trainer and Johan Janse van Vuuren for whom he rides Kudzu in Race 7, a MR 96 Handicap over 1800m. This lightly raced four-year-old gelding by Flower Alley scored over 1600m on the Inside track last time out but has shown his versatility by winning over 2000m. Van Vuuren’s last-start winner carries a four-point penalty but remains open to further improvement and is good value to follow up. Clive Robinson

Yoshito Yahagi believes that overwhelming Dubai World Cup favourite Forever Young has taken a step forward from his epic defeat of Romantic Warrior in Riyadh last month, while jockey Ryusei Sakai is determined to make up for some heartbreaking near-misses in 2024. Forever Young finished a narrow third in both the G1 Kentucky Derby (2000m) and the G1 Breeders’ Cup Classic (2000m) during his three-year-old season, while stablemate Shin Emperor – one of the leading contenders for Saturday’s $6 million G1 Longines Dubai Sheema Classic (2410m) – was also third in the G1 Irish Champion Stakes (2000m), as well as going down by a neck to Do Deuce when dead-heating for second in the G1 Japan Cup (2400m). Looking ahead to the two colts’ major assignments at Meydan on Saturday, Sakai told a packed media conference: “It’s a mixed feeling as obviously there is pressure. But personally I really appreciate the opportunity given to me to ride top-class horses, not only in Japan but also on the world stage. “Last year  we were unable to win a Group 1 overseas with these two horses but this year we’re coming back to win as many races as possible with them, and perhaps every race.” Such ambition is shared by his mentor Yahagi who, despite playing up to frequent media mentions of Sakai’s youth by referring to him as “my apprentice”, said that both colts were fine-tuned to produce standout performances on Saturday. Regarding Forever Young, Yahagi believes the stretch duel with Romantic Warrior has served to sharpen the blade ahead of the G1 Dubai World Cup (sponsored by Emirates Airline). “Of course he had a tough race and he was a little fatigued for a few days,” said Yahagi. “My staff really did a great job in aiding his recovery and from then the plan was always to come here and compete in the Dubai World Cup. “I think the extra 200 metres will be an advantage for him and also going four turns will benefit him. “I’ve been asked a lot about how he has come out of the race and his overall condition and some people have been concerned. But I actually think that, having experienced that tough race, he has improved another level. I think it’s all positive, I don’t see any negatives.” Yahagi caused a ripple of laughter around the conference room when adding: “My young ‘apprentice’ jockey has really improved. “We share our values and everyone understands my thinking about what we all want to achieve. I truly believe that I have the best team in the world.” Shin Emperor is yet to win at Group level but looked ready to take that step when landing the Neom Turf Cup on the Saudi Cup undercard last month. “Shin Emperor really enjoys the environment here in Dubai,”said Yahagi. “Maybe he’s even a little bit too relaxed so that’s why we asked him for a little bit more yesterday [Tuesday] when we breezed him. We wanted him to be really ready for the race. “I haven’t seen much improvement in him from last time out but he maintains a high level of form to be competitive in the Sheema Classic.” Yahagi admitted that he and owner Susumu Fujita have discussed the possibility that Forever Young will stay in training at five and that, after a return to the Breeders’ Cup Classic later this season, he could have a crack at a major turf prize before his career comes to an end. Yahagi also looks set to aim Shin Emperor at a serious summer target in Britain, with the G1 International Stakes at York (2000m) the likely choice as a lead-up to a second attempt at the G1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (2400m) with the French-bred son of Siyouni. But for now the Dubai World Cup takes centre stage for Yahagi, Sakai and Forever Young, with the trainer underlining how Japanese racing fans have grown to love the race. “The Dubai World Cup is a race that in Japan we always want to win,” said Yahagi. “In 2011, straight after a devastating earthquake in Japan, Victoire Pisa won it and Transcend finished second.  That was meaningful for the people; they were encouraged by that and this race, which has a prestigious history, has become more and more popular.” If Forever Young can do what many – if not most – expect on Saturday, then that affection for the Dubai World Cup will become even deeper and more enduring. by Scott Burton, DWC Notes Team

Admirably consistent across his 35-start career, Jumbo Legend (119lb) added another string to his bow this evening (Wednesday, 2 April) at Happy Valley with a stamina testing success in the Class 3 Hanshin Handicap (2200m). Racing beyond 1800m for the first time after four wins at the city circuit – twice at 1200m and 1650m, trainer Caspar Fownes’ six-year-old showcased ample staying power by producing a neck victory over Fallon (126lb) with jockey Harry Bentley. Settled close to the rear throughout the contest, Bentley swung his mount into clear air with 300m left to run. Angling into the open, the bay overhauled Fallon tenaciously in 2m 14.18s with Charity Gain (121lb) grinding into third a further three lengths away. “Stepping up in distance was a slight question mark. He always finishes his race out so well, so it looked to be suitable. I was happy with how he came into it and he relaxed beautifully,” Bentley said. “Fallon really stuck his head out and obviously the weight played a bit of a part but take nothing away from this lad’s victory.” Jumbo Legend boasts HK$6.92 million earnings for Fownes, who said: “He’s a very honest horse. He ran a good race last start with good sectionals over 1800 metres. We felt that he could get any distance from a mile to 2000 and 2200 tonight.” Concluding his six-week short-term Hong Kong contract this evening along with Declan McDonogh, Richard Kingscote exulted with his first Happy Valley win aboard Giant Leap in the second section of the Class 4 Nakayama Handicap (1200m) for trainer Ricky Yiu. “I’m really happy. Obviously, tonight’s my last night, so it’s nice to get another one. I’m very grateful to Ricky and his team – they’ve supported me a lot since I’ve been here. It’s good,” Kingscote said. Kingscote rode a treble last Wednesday (26 March) from three rides at Sha Tin’s all-dirt fixture, while McDonogh departs with the one win at Happy Valley on 5 March. Following 10 wins through March, Andrea Atzeni extended his sparkling run as Crystal Powerful (121lb) landed the Class 4 Japan Racing Association Trophy Handicap (1000m) for trainer Cody Mo from gate two, edging past a hard Plentiful (126lb) by a short head. Atzeni said: “It’s not a surprise to see him win. He won in Class 4 last year and dropping him back to 1000 (metres) is sort of the key to him – he’s showing more speed this year and he’s won both times but the draw has been a big help. Both times he’s had a good draw, good trip and he’s won but you can’t take anything away from him.” Atzeni strengthened his grip on third place in the Hong Kong jockeys’ championship with a double after scoring on Fownes-trained Kaholo Angel in the Class 3 Kyoto Handicap (1200m), boosting his haul to 38 for the term to trail only Zac Purton (88 wins) and Hugh Bowman (52). Keagan De Melo and Chris So continued a fruitful union by grabbing their sixth win in tandem this season with three-year-old Top Time’s triumph in the first section of the Class 4 Chukyo Handicap (1650m). “Chris has been really good to me. I’m just really thankful because you need someone who relies on you a little bit,” De Melo said. “He’s still a young horse but I thought that was a very good win.” Dragon Four Seas skipped up the inside for a second straight win in the first section of the Class 4 Nakayama Handicap (1200m) under Bowman for trainer Manfred Man. Hard Spun gelding Highland Rahy lowered Flying Elite’s long-held Class 4 1650m course record (1m 38.83s) set in 2013 to 1m 38.42s with an all-the-way victory in the second section of the Chukyo Handicap under Lyle Hewitson for trainer Francis Lui. “He galloped strongly and got stronger through the race. He had a breather up the hill (back straight) and then put the pressure on again. I felt him come to me this time, it just felt like he might have kicked a little better,” Hewitson said. “He was tough to the line.” Golden Darci soared from last-to-first to land the Class 5 Niigata Handicap (1200m) with jockey James Orman for trainer Douglas Whyte. Orman secured his third win this term. “It was going to be hard from that barrier (12) but it worked out pretty good for us. He just came around them and he was too good,” Orman said. Purton and Pierre Ng combined for their eighth victory of the season when Aestheticism overpowered his rivals to clinch the Class 3 Tokyo Handicap (1650m). All four of Aestheticism’s career wins have come under seven-time Hong Kong champion Purton. Hong Kong racing continues at Sha Tin this Sunday (6 April). By Declan Schuster

Kelly Mitchley-trained Bonjour La Ville has been unlucky enough to face Alan Greeff’s Anotherdanceforme three times in a row and has lost all three. This William Longsword filly whose name translated into English means “hello city”, did not show her best on a soft track last time out. It is likely to be soft again but she can bounce back to score. Bonjour La Ville finished 8.10 lengths behind Anotherdanceforme last time out but was only 0.10 lengths behind that rival in her penultimate start and before and two lengths behind that rival on 24 January. That suggests Mitchley’s filly will be hard to beat if showing her best form when she lines up in Race 1 at Fairview on Friday, a Maiden Juvenile Plate over 1000m. The drop to 1000m will suit as that was the distance of her first two meetings with Greeff’s runner. The last one was over 1200m and it was in a feature race, the Listed East Cape Fillies Nursery. Gavin Smith-trained Nothingelsematters has been very consistent this year and won a race in January over 2400m, beating Harold The Duke. He has finished runner-up three times since then off his merit rating of 71, so is clearly ready to score. He takes his place in the final event of the afternoon, Race 8, a MR 68 Handicap over 2000m, and could close the meeting off in style. Craig Zackey takes the ride. The Listed Glenair Trophy over 2800m is the highlight of this meeting and it could produce a competitive finish. Greeff, to be expected, has a decent hand with Joy And Peace and Bournemouth, both arriving for this race in fine form. Bournemouth has won his last two races under Richard Fourie but that rider has deserted him for star filly Joy and Peace. Joy And Peace tries 2800m for the first time but did impress last year when winning the East Cape Derby over 2400m, so should have no problem at all over this longer distance. However, Smith also has an interesting runner in Zatara Magic who has finished runner-up to Bournemouth in their last two starts. Those races were both at level weights so at the same weight differential, Bournemouth should retain the advantage. However, Zatara Magic did have excuses in both of those starts and with Zackey up, needs to be included in all bets. Clive Robinson

Another tricky card faces punters at the Vaal Classic track on Thursday 3 April but there are two runners that are expected to go close and even win their respective heats. Trainer Alec Laird has a couple of good winning chances and his five-year-old mare Virgin River looks the part in race 6, a Divided MR 92 Handicap over 1200m for fillies and mares. The well-bred mare has in her career raced just 11 times, for two wins and six runner-up finishes. She has been ultra-consistent by only missing the first four places once and that was fifth on a soft track. The Vercingetorix mare seems to have improved of late and was a winner of a handicap on the Turffontein Inside track over 1000m last month. She was allowed to stride and that clearly suited her. She does also clearly run for jockey Clavin Habib as she has won twice under him in just three starts. A three-point penalty for her last win may not be enough to anchor her. A race later, Race 7, Chasing Happiness can bounce back and take out this MR106 Handicap over 1000m. The Rafeef filly had a good year in 2024 winning four of her five races, including pulling off a hat-trick of wins. Those wins came at a high cost to her merit-rating so it was not really a surprise that she was unplaced in both her starts this year. Jockey Piere Strydom gets aboard her this time and she may well have a win left in her tank. Clive Robinson