Sha Tin Track Spy: Sunday, 13 April
Video Stars
Race 4 No 6 GLACIATED
His eighth-place finish on debut was better than it appears, as he settled off the speed in a slowly run race and finished strongly in the closing stages. Had he not been crowded late, he could have finished even closer.
Stepping up to 1200m should suit his racing style this week, making him an intriguing runner to watch.
Race 11 No 8 REGAL GEM
Luck was not on his side during his local debut 25 days ago, as he endured a wide trip from an awkward draw, forcing him to cover extra ground. As a result, he raced one-paced in the straight and finished seventh over 1200m.
Now fitter for his second-up run, he could sneak into the placings at odds, provided he gets a smoother trip.
Sectional Stars
Race 3 No 2 PODIUM
He travelled wide in a 1600m race last time out, so it was no surprise to see him battle in the straight and finish sixth. Resuming from a break, he is expected to sprint well with fresh legs, especially with the drop to 1200m, a distance he has proven successful at before.
Race 6 No 10 MAX QUE
After jumping awkwardly from a wide draw last start, he showed little off the speed throughout. However, his second-fastest final 400m of 22.93 seconds suggests that his performance may have been underestimated. With a clean getaway, he looks capable of securing a spot in the Top 3.
Zarigana headlines Grotte as classic hopes clash at Longchamp
A top-tier day of racing awaits at Longchamp this Sunday (April 13), with a number of Group 3 contests for three-year-olds headlining the card — each showcasing some of last season’s standout juveniles.
Two of the day’s features, the 1600m Prix de la Grotte (fillies) and the 1600m Prix de Fontainebleau (colts and geldings), serve as key trials for the French 1000 and 2000 Guineas (Poules d’Essai).
In the Prix de la Grotte, attention will centre on Zarigana, the highly regarded granddaughter of champion Zarkava. After a perfect start to her career, including a Group 3 Prix d’Aumale win, she was narrowly defeated — beaten by a nose — in the Group 1 Prix Marcel Boussac. Now a leading 13/8 favourite for the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches and listed at 16/1 for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, the Francis Graffard-trained filly carries high expectations into her seasonal return.
Her main challenger could be the unbeaten Safia, who impressed in her two career starts to date. She made a strong seasonal comeback with a determined victory at Saint-Cloud late last month, suggesting there’s more to come.
The Prix de Fontainebleau marks the return of Misunderstood, who won his first two starts — most notably a 4.5-length triumph in the Group 3 Prix des Chênes. Despite a third-place finish in the Group 1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardère, he retains high regard. Also in the mix is Darius Cen, a Listed winner in the Prix Omnium II and viewed with optimism by trainer Victoria Head. The colt has shown considerable potential and will look to stake his Classic claims on Sunday.
April 12 Selangor Preview By Mark Lydeamore
Track Two will be used for Races 1 and 2 while Races 3 to 11 will be contested on the A6 course for this Saturday’s eleven race program at the Selangor Turf Club.
An enthralling clash is expected in the 1400m Max Two Stakes (Race 5) with last start winners CINNAMON BLAZE and CHEVAL PEGASUS expected to head the markets in the set weights contest. CINNAMON BLAZE has won twice from his last three starts and his Open Novice victory here three weeks ago suggests he will be hard to take down again. Leading throughout to score by 7.25 lengths, the five-year-old was never in doubt and he is likely to lead from pole position this Saturday. CHEVAL PEGASUS, unbeaten in two runs locally, does have plenty of promise also and is more of a sit sprinter. The three-year-old defeated a handy Class 4 lineup last start and will go up 6kg in the weights.
Recent G1 Perak Derby winner, LUCKY MAGIC returns in the 1600m Supreme B event (Race 7) and should continue the winning streak as he aims for his fourth successive victory. The two-time group winner is in career best form and with two from two at the track and distance, the four-year-old looks the testing material again. Last year’s G1 Singapore Gold Cup winner, SMART STAR should provide some stiff opposition after finishing fourth behind LUCKY MAGIC in the Derby and trainer Charles Leck will take over the gelding’s preparation.
An interesting runner going around in Race 8 is former Australian galloper, THUNDEROUS. Previously known as Das Kapital, the four-year-old was formerly trained by top conditioner, Ciaron Maher and will be first up since May last year. Breaking the maiden tag in January 2024, THUNDEROUS maintained solid form as a three-year-old against the older performers chalking three minor placings in succession prior to spelling. Selangor trainer Simon Dunderdale has enjoyed some success with these former Aussies in the past and THUNDEROUS is a newcomer to watch.
If the local punters are patient enough, THUNDER STAR on the downgrade may be worth following in Race 11 with inform jockey Carlos Henrique in the saddle. The six-year-old has posted two wins and two placings from five local runs and missed a place for the first time in Malaysia last start. Beaten for early pace on that occasion, he never looked comfortable. Now with the Sharee Hamilton stable, the return to Class 5 grade plus the booking of a more senior jockey should see the six-year-old bounce back to better form. The consistent LIM’S SINAI should never be left out of calculations on the six-day back up while SMOKE AND MIRRORS is a proven Class 5 performer when based in Kranji and is one to consider first up in the country.
Global Stars Align for Queen Elizabeth Stakes Showdown
One of the world’s top horses is gunning for her 7th Group 1 victory this season, with the world’s best jockey in the saddle, and one of the most successful trainers in recent history calling the shots. This thrilling showdown takes place at Royal Randwick, Sydney, Australia, on Day 2 of The Championships, in one of the highest-rated races on the global calendar. And it’s all happening with the World Pool in action!
Via Sistina will face a world-class field in the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes this Saturday, and it could be her toughest test yet. Her resume speaks volumes, but to claim the title of best, she’ll need to conquer a formidable lineup. Dubai Honour, a Group 1 winner from the UK and trained by the legendary William Haggas, will be in her way. Rousham Park, from Japan, will also pose a threat, with Christophe Lemaire, one of the world’s finest jockeys, looking to steal the spotlight.
But that’s just the start. Light Infantry Man, winner of the Group 1 Australian Cup, and last year’s dual Group 1 winner Ceolwulf, at his ideal 2000m distance, are both in the mix. Tom Kitten, the Group 1 All Star Mile victor and part of the Godolphin powerhouse, is another contender. Vauban, hitting career-best form in Australia after making waves in Europe, and Full Count Felicia, a Group 1 winner in North America, are also eyeing the top prize. It’s no wonder this race is one of the highest-rated worldwide. SKY Racing’s Brad Gray and Kiersten Duke break down the field and help you find the winner.
Selukwe to deliver a hammer blow
Eleven-time South African Champion Jockey Michael Roberts has always rated the New Zealand-bred Sledgehammer as the best horse he ever rode in South Africa.
None in Sunday’s field in the World Sports Betting Sledgehammer (Listed) will ever rise to those lofty heights but they will have punters pondering. Andre Nel saddles Selukwe who was a comfortable winner of a minor feature last time out and that form has since been franked. He took a six-point rise in the handicap and takes on useful company but a repeat will see him close.
Justin Snaith fires this first salvos leading into South Africa’s Champion Season and sends out Legal Counsel who won his last two in the Cape. The gelding looks progressive and with a light weight he will be a big contender. Stable companion Rapidash has been up against top opposition in the Cape and although a distant second last run, The Real Prince is not in this line-up. Alec Laird only has one runner on the day and Command Pilot may just have needed his last run and has a money chance.
The World Sports Betting Highland Night Cup will have Frank Robinson planning for the big staying features coming up in the next three months. Shoot The Rapids made a smart return to the track after a lengthy break when a close-up second last run. He stays well and at best will go close again. Snaith sends out Master Of Paris who arrives with useful recent Cape form over shorter. He gets 9kg from Shoot The Rapids which could make things difficult for Robinson’s charge. Cape Eagle is never far off them and stays the trip. He will be a big runner. Raiseahallelujah ran well below form last time out and the run is best ignored. He stays well and is not without a chance.
The filly Scarlet Lady was one of the finest sprinters of her time so it is a bit ironic that The Scarlet Lady is run over 1750m. Whatever, Spirit Of Levana was scratched from her last intended start on the grounds of an interrupted work programme. Hopefully she is up to peak fitness now and she can make amends for being a beaten favourite last run. The blinkers have been exchanged for cheek pieces. Miss Platina was quietly fancied in the King’s Cup last run but it was a tough ask but the form of her penultimate start has worked out well. Celtic Beauty is useful and set the pace in a sprint last run in a good blow-out for this race. She will much prefer this trip. Mascherina is seldom far back and has a strong money chance.
Snaith can get his Champions Season campaign off on a winning note with Gran Canaria in the first leg of the PA. The gelding comes with smart Cape form and looks the part although Amandla Ngawethu started favourite in his Highveld debut after showing promising Cape form. The step up in trip should suit.
It is a competitive card and punters will need to do their homework and also keep an eye on the market before making their decisions. The first leg of the Pick 6 is an open handicap but Greenlight Queen Open handicap made steady improvement leading up to her recent maiden win. That form has panned out quite well and she can go in again. Princess Goldie was also a recent maiden winner but comes from a very much in-form stable. The step up in trip from a good draw should see her in with a strong chance. Buttercup Baby has a tricky draw to negotiate but was doing her best work late last run and will appreciate the extra furlong. Emerald Queen was drawn on Marriott Road last start so that run is best ignored. She is smart on her day.
In the eighth Happy Analia found one too good for her in stable companion Tara Sands Last run but there was very little in it. She could find this trip a touch sharp but is in good form. B Fiftytwo has been knocking at the door for some time now and the apprentice has been replaced by Andrew Fortune. Michael Roberts holds a strong hand with four of his Hollywoodbets Scottsville specialists in the field. Best could be Northern Warrior who has shown some of his best form over course and distance and is in good form at present. Stable companion Philispiel is over his best course and distance with a 4kg claimer aboard. His last run is best ignored.
The final leg of the Pick 6 does not get any easier but On Board made a winning local debut after showing some modest Cape form but can follow up in this company. Dawn Surprise was a beaten favourite last run after a smart previous effort. She is 1kg worse off with Prized Platinum on their last meeting given the apprentice claim. Jaap Visser is a rare visitor and saddles three runners. Si Veloce was much improved last run and could be the pick although Perini Palace is more consistent but his current recent form is over further.
Garrix to come into his own
Across the country, three-year-olds have shone against their older rivals at feature race level. One Stripe, Eight On Eighteen, Fire Attack have all taken big scalps against the tried and tested and well-performed elders. If that trend is to be backed up, Garrix could be the next promising youngster to win a feature race against good opposition. He runs in race 7, the Grade 3 Variety Club Mile at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday.
Garrix showed his worth by running close-up at Grade 1 level through the Cape Summer Racing Festival behind Eight On Eighteen in the Splashout Cape Derby over 2000m in February. He lacked that little extra late after looking like a serious threat for much of the run home. There has always been doubt whether he has the stamina for a true 2000m race but there is no doubting his game for this 1600m trip.
Despite being a two-time winner from six starts, he has never really had the rub of the green. Three runs back he finished fifth, 3,8 lengths behind Sail The Seas over this course and distance. From a shocking draw of No 15, he dropped out and was forced to make headway. He made up ground from a distant position but the race was all over. He then had no charm with the slow-run race in the Grade 3 City Of Cape Town Politician Stakes over 1800m in late January. The idea was clearly to drop him out but he took a hold off a walking pace and he was forced to loop runners. He was hardly disgraced, finishing 2,75 lengths behind Zeitz in second place.
This time he has drawn No 3 and a light weight of 52,5kg. Ashton Arries rides particularly well for Piet Steyn so there is already some harmony from that point. Garrix has better days to come and he could start a seriously good last three quarters of 2025 with a bang here.
One could argue that The Grey King was moving up to threaten All Out For Six in the HSH Princess Charlene Big Cup last month when interference occurred, and he was the victim of the incident. Bygones are bygones and he has a chance to turn it all around. If there is a feature attainable for him this winter, it is probably this race. Craig Zackey is carded to be aboard again and he gets the most out of the quirky character.
Rascallion won this race last year. He is pound-for-pound the best horse in the race, certainly the best performed. His run in the World Sports Betting Cape Town Met in late January was admirable as always finishing a 1,2-length fifth behind Eight On Eighteen. He has the roughest of the draws in gate No. 11 but he gets the sympathetic hands of Andrew Fortune, which could be a masterstroke. Expect a solid effort if he does not win.
Kinda Wonderful somehow emerges on the big occasion despite having mixed form. She is a classy three-year-old filly and she could continue the trend of youngsters against older opposition in the Listed Sweet Chestnut Stakes over 1400m, race 6. Her effort in the Grade 1 Maine Chance Farms Majorca Stakes over 1600m was full of merit, finishing fourth behind Rascova. That level is sufficient to win. Trainer Eric Sands seems to have prepped her well for this run with a five-week break going into this. Her last start was a 1,5-length second behind Give Me Everything in the Schweppes Cape Oaks over 1800m. Give Me Everything has won again since and she clearly has more to come. Craig Zackey is carded to ride for Sands.
Miss World and Rainbow Lorikeet make appeal as dangers. Miss World has talent but she has underachieved but would be no shock if she put everything together and gave Kinda Wonderful a fright while Rainbow Lorikeet broke through during summer but this distance is short of her best. Regardless, she has come of age and would not be a shock winner.
La Pulga looks set to win race 8 over 1800m. If The Grey King goes close a race earlier in a race roughly two divisions stronger than this, he should take a power of beating. His run in the Gold Rush was admirable staying on to finish 1,75 lengths behind All Out For Six in second. He made up ground too late over 1400m, a distance short of his best. He has clearly found his stride after taking time to show the promise trainer Candice Bass-Robinson expected. He has bloomed over the last few months and the extra trip is key to his chances. Sean Veale takes the ride with just 55,5kg on his back.
The rest of the card stacks up with big fields and an open look to it. Ashikule ran a cracker on debut to finish 2,5 lengths behind Military Command in second. Miliary Command subsequently won the Cape Racing Sales Cape Slipper for a princely sum. Ashikule runs against some very well-bred debutants but it will take a good one to beat him in race 1 over 1100m.
There is less inspiring form to work with in race 2 so check the betting on all first timers. Marketa could have the best run on offer because she finished third on debut, 3,3 lengths behind Cliffscape. She stayed on very strongly, too, so if she has learned anything, she should take a huge step forward. Corne Orffer is carded to be aboard for Greg Ennion.
Cape Captain is due her win and she has a great opportunity in race 3 over 1200m. Her last run took her closest to winning when she finished a 1,25-length second behind the well-overdue Lhasa over this course and distance. To be fair, she had no answer to the winner but this field looks at a similar level. Trainer Des McLachlan is having a good start to 2025 and that should enhance some confidence.
Tripping Thunder would be a deserving winner of race 4 over 1000m. He has found consistency and he has been banging at the Maiden Plate exit door for a while. He has a habit of finding something better but he just looks set to be the next off the conveyor belt. There are a few rivals who enter the considerations for similar reasons. Heritage Ridge would not be a wildly out-of-place winner, while Gimmeathrill needed his last run when ending up fourth, not far behind Sugarbush.
Race 5 stacks up as an interesting event with a few hints of rapid progress among the field. Gold Dust has only two starts under his belt and he looks set to continue on the right track. His debut was fair but his next start he finished 1,3 lengths behind Dubbelosix at 1600m at Hollywoodbets Durbanville. He drops to 1400m and this looks like the right time and the right place to strike. Zackey and Sands team up. Threats include Vapour Trail, Konnichiwa and Gimme The Best.
Race 9 over 1100m could be the race of the day in terms of competitiveness with some rapidly improving horses in the equation. Preference is for Gimmelightning who was tested and given a challenge when seemingly outgunned in the Grade 2 De Grendel Cape Merchants in December. He ran a ripper, 3,55 lengths behind Outlaw King in fifth keeping faith that there would be wins to come. He was simply run off his feet at his next start behind Candy Town which was hardly an embarrassment. He is selected to win under JP van der Merwe for Justin Snaith.
Kaiboy has held his form and he is an exciting three-year-old going forward who would not be a shock winner. Elusive Winter has found life. Trainers Michelle Rix and Harold Crawford have this gelding running in good heart and he cannot be ignored. Nordic Chief is fresh off a smart win while Arctic Wizard ran into traffic last time and he should finish closer. All of them warrant respect if Gimmelightning fails to fire up.
United Nation could be the right horse in race 10 over 1000m. He returned off a mini-break in his last run when he gave plenty of cheek before falling short in third behind Peace Of Mind. He should be better for the run under the belt. Rattlesnake should go close again but he has been costly to follow lately losing his penultimate in the Stipes’ Boardroom and then finishing second in his last run.
Hugh Bowman takes Happy Valley honours with treble
Riding with supreme confidence, Hugh Bowman’s growing winning streak continued with a treble at Happy Valley on Wednesday night (9 April) as the Australian struck success for the fourth consecutive Hong Kong meeting.
Bowman triumphed on Stellar Swift for David Hayes in the second section of the Class 4 King’s Park Handicap (1200m), Danny Shum’s Harmony Galaxy in the Class 4 Wylie Handicap (1800m) and Mark Newnham’s Casa Rochester in the Class 4 Oi Man Handicap (1650m) to maintain impressive momentum with six wins from his past 31 rides.
“I had nice rides coming into the meeting and you don’t expect them all to win. This guy (Casa Rochester) had an awkward barrier (gate eight) but he was aided by a frantic speed and I did think he would be a better horse ridden to hit the line and it proved right,” said Bowman, who boosted his haul for the season to 56 wins, a tally bettered only by Zac Purton’s 88.
“I think he’s still pretty immature and lacks strength, he might have more in store.
“Stellar Swift was courageous over 1400m last time and I think David (Hayes) made a huge judgement call to come back to 1200m and it proved to be right. He travelled beautifully throughout, there was a bit of traffic to contend with but when I needed him to lift, he did it for me.”
Four-year-old Harmony Galaxy had six starts in Brazil as Empire Of The Nile, twice finishing third at Group 1 level and transferred to Hong Kong on a mark of 68 and snared three minor placings before striking tonight as a 55-rater.
“Harmony Galaxy has been a work in progress, he needs to relax to produce his best and I was a bit worried going past the post for the first time that he wasn’t settling for me but then the pace increased and he got into a really beautiful rhythm,” Bowman said.
“I thought he got to the front with a bit in hand and he floated a bit and waited so, again, he’s still got more up his sleeve but it was great to win for him and the connections.”
Colourful King continued his sharp rise with an electrifying sprint under Andrea Atzeni to land the Class 3 Hong Kong China Rugby Cup Handicap (1000m) for David Eustace.
“He was impressive today. The race looked like it was going to set up well for him as they were clearly going to go pretty quick up front which would certainly help. But having said that, he won with authority,” Eustace said.
“We were confident he would improve. This was only his third start and he trained on really nicely, so we came here hopeful.”
With two wins from three starts, the Blue Point gelding’s only unplaced run came on debut at Sha Tin on 16 February.
“His first run down the straight at Sha Tin certainly had merit and that was only his first start. I think we would get 1200m but I certainly wouldn’t want to rush there either so I’d like to keep him to 1000m if we could,” said Eustace, who trained a treble at Sha Tin on Sunday (6 April).”
Flying Fortress benefited from a brilliant Harry Bentley ride to win the Class 3 Mong Kok Handicap (1650m) for Cody Mo as Michael Chang-trained Sovereign Fund prevailed in the first section of the Class 4 King’s Park Handicap (1200m) under Karis Teetan.
Caspar Fownes-trained Verbier broke through at his 14th start, leading all the way for Luke Ferraris to land the Class 5 Yau Ma Tei Handicap (1650m) before Dennis Yip’s Northern Fire Ball won the third section of the Class 4 King’s Park Handicap (1200m) for Jerry Chau. A son of Sooboog, the three-year-old improved his record to two wins and two minor placings from nine starts.
Hong Kong International Sale graduate Golden Empire posted his seventh victory from 38 starts under Keagan De Melo for Francis Lui to take his earnings to HK$8.67 million with a defiant front-running display.
Hong Kong racing continues at Sha Tin on Sunday (13 April).
By Leo Schlink
Kingdundee is Ready for Lotus Island
There are some nice races to look forward to at Fairview on Friday, and hopefully the rain stays away so we can enjoy a full meeting on the turf.
The pick of the card is Race 7 – the Fairview Flying Five (Listed) over 1000m – where star sprinter King Dundee can return to winning ways.
The United States gelding has won four of his seven starts, finishing second on two other occasions. He was narrowly denied last time out by the top-class Fairy Knight over 1200m, but is better judged on his penultimate start, when he was a dominant winner over this course and distance.
Craig Zackey, who has partnered him in all four victories, is back aboard and knows exactly how to get the best out of the Gavin Smith-trained gelding.
Smith could also strike early in Race 1, a Juvenile Plate over 1000m, where he sends out a strong pair in Ready and Priceless Treasure. Ready ran a promising second just last week and with Zackey taking the ride again, he looks the one to beat.
Trainer Alan Greeff will also be out to make his mark and holds a strong hand in Race 4 – the East Cape Oaks (Listed) over 2000m. He sends out two fillies, both of whom arrive on the back of hat-trick wins.
Stable jockey Richard Fourie opts for Lotus Island, who is likely to go off favourite, but her stablemate, First, has done nothing wrong and could push her all the way.
Clive Robinson
King aims to rule Valley again, Sweynesse and Bubble impress in...
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
David Eustace exults with first treble in Hong Kong
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
Tony, Tarry team up for Turffontein treble
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
Sha Tin Track Spy: Sunday, 6 April
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.
April 6 Selangor Preview By Mark Lydeamore
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.
The Boom Box chases bounce back at Sha Tin on Sunday
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
Doncaster Mile: Tom Kitten Poised for Redemption
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 primed for G1 Dubai Turf after final fast work...
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
JAPAN Express Form (Tokyo City Keiba) – Tuesday, April 15
Click on the icon below to download your daily Japan Express Form for FREE now!
Today’s races are held at Tokyo City Keiba.
France Express Form & Race Previews (Chantilly) – Monday, April 14
Download your daily France express form for FREE:
RACE 1: DE ROISSY HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) – 1200M – TIME: 19:55 PRIZE MONEY: EUR53000
Summary: Summary: AGORIA (9) has been consistent of late, with several placed efforts and two wins last October—one over 1200m at Fontainebleau and the other here over 1400m. She ran well when fourth in a Class 2 event and now reopposes MCTENETT (13), who finished second ahead of her last time at Fontainebleau. NATIONAL SERVICE (4) appeals as a solid each-way option, having performed well when fourth in a Class 2 at this track in mid-March. GAME RUN (3) and HORTENSIA BASC (16) are also in the mix and can battle for the minor honours.
SELECTIONS
AGORIA (9) – MCTENETT (13) – NATIONAL SERVICE (4) – GAME RUN (3)
RACE 2: EPINARD MAIDEN STAKES (TURF TRACK) – 1000M – TIME: 20:30 PRIZE MONEY: EUR30000
Summary: SBIKHA (2) ran a decent race on her debut at Saint-Cloud over 900m late last month and can improve from that experience and get the better of LIMPIDE (3), who was a length behind in third in the same race. NO TUNE (7) has a speedy pedigree, and her dam was a winner of a Listed race and placed in a Group 3. She can be involved, as can the only colt in the lineup PITCH PERFECT (1), who is out of a mare that won over 1200m.
SELECTIONS
SBIKHA (2) – LIMPIDE (3) – NO TUNE (7) – PITCH PERFECT (1)
RACE 3: MONT PAGNOTTE STAKES (TURF TRACK) – 2200M – TIME: 21:05 PRIZE MONEY: EUR28000
Summary: In a small but competitive field, it might pay to side with the Andre Fabre-trained AVIDE (4), who won nicely on his debut last November, in a race that has produced several winners. He is marginally preferred over PIQUOISEAU (2), who won by over two lengths on his sole start at Bordeaux Le Bouscat in late October and looks a nice prospect. MIDAK (1) scored on debut on the PSF last month and warrants respect, with improvement expected on turf.
SELECTIONS
AVIDE (4) – PIQUOISEAU (2) – MIDAK (1) – PONDERADO (3)
RACE 4: HAMEAU DE LA BICHE HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1900M – TIME: 21:40 PRIZE MONEY: EUR13000
Summary: RED CRAZY (9) was a decent fourth at this track on his latest start over 1600m 12 days ago and should play a leading role. His main threat could be BECH RIVER (8), who was a narrow margin behind in fifth in the same race 12 days ago, and the two could fight out the finish. BOLT OF THUNDER (13) has dropped in the ratings and is well handicapped at the moment, he can not be discounted. PAS DE VELOURS (1) is another to consider off top weight.
SELECTIONS
RED CRAZY (9) – BECH RIVER (8) – BOLT OF THUNDER (13) – PAS DE VELOURS (1)
RACE 5: PRIX SIGY (GROUP 3) (TURF TRACK) – 1100M – TIME: 22:15 PRIZE MONEY: EUR80000
Summary: ARIZONA BLAZE (1) makes the trip over from Ireland and was a decent third in a Group 3 race at Leopardstown late last month over 1400m. The drop in trip should not be too much of an issue. RAYEVKA (6) looked smart when scoring at Chantilly in a maiden last year and was then pitched into a Group 1 race when finishing sixth. She can not be overlooked on her return outing. APOLLO FOUNTAIN (9) is speedy and can not be ruled out. POLYVEGA (10) is a course and distance winner and warrants respect.
SELECTIONS
ARIZONA BLAZE (1) – RAYEVKA (6) – APOLLO FOUNTAIN (9) – POLYVEGA (10)
RACE 6: PAVE DE LA BICHE HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1900M – TIME: 22:50 PRIZE MONEY: EUR15000
Summary: VESINABA (14) returned to form with a third-placed effort over track and trip in late March. He can score under his rider, Cristian Demuro. OSER (11) has been knocking on the door of late with two second-placed efforts, the latter at this track and trip on March 31st, a narrow margin ahead of the selection. PALIMERO (12) has eased in the handicap and is one to pay attention to each way. HOT SUMMER (13) can also have a say from the foot of the handicap.
SELECTIONS
VESINABA (14) – OSER (11) – PALIMERO (12) – HOT SUMMER (13)
RACE 7: MUSEE DE L’AIR ET DE L’ESPACE HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) – 1200M – TIME: 23:25 PRIZE MONEY: EUR20000
Summary: An open handicap with several of the field with some sort of chance. ICE CLIMBER (4) has had a couple of unplaced efforts since a decent second at Deauville and is the tentative selection ahead of ICE CLIMBER (4), who will be in a good frame of mind after a win last month at Fontainebleau in a Class 3 handicap. BOMBEY (5) has been placed twice recently and looks solid each way. ALBERTINELLI (8) is also worth a mention.
SELECTIONS
ICE CLIMBER (4) – BAILEYS BACHELOR (1) – BOMBEY (5) – ALBERTINELLI (8)
RACE 8: PAVE DE THIERS HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1900M – TIME: 00:00 PRIZE MONEY: EUR18000
Summary: SAN TEODORICO (9) is reasonably well handicapped at the moment and ran a decent race when fifth at Compiegne on his most recent outing. He is given the vote ahead of INKIOSTRO (7), who should appreciate the return to the PSF after a below par effort on the turf 13 days ago. She has decent course form this year. URI (13) ran well over 1600m at this track earlier this month and has Maxime Guyon to assist. ROI DE FLANDRE (4) is also one to keep safe.
SELECTIONS
SAN TEODORICO (9) – INKIOSTRO (7) – URI (13) – ROI DE FLANDRE (4)
RACE 9: DU BOURGET HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) – 1200M – TIME: 00:35 PRIZE MONEY: EUR27000
Summary: BABA SIM (14) was a fair fifth at Fontainebleau in a Class 3 handicap in mid-March on the latest start and is reasonably well treated in the handicap at the present. He can edge this over REGALIEN (13), who has two placed efforts recently and is adaptable trip-wise. SNOW GHOST (9) ran a good race to be second at Moulins last time, and it looks like one for the each-way backers to look at. SIMPLY LOVELY (11) makes up the shortlist.
SELECTIONS
BABA SIM (14) – REGALIEN (13) – SNOW GHOST (9) – SIMPLY LOVELY (11)
RACE 1: DE ROISSY HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) – 1200M – TIME: 19:55 PRIZE MONEY: EUR53000
Summary: Summary: AGORIA (9) has been consistent of late, with several placed efforts and two wins last October—one over 1200m at Fontainebleau and the other here over 1400m. She ran well when fourth in a Class 2 event and now reopposes MCTENETT (13), who finished second ahead of her last time at Fontainebleau. NATIONAL SERVICE (4) appeals as a solid each-way option, having performed well when fourth in a Class 2 at this track in mid-March. GAME RUN (3) and HORTENSIA BASC (16) are also in the mix and can battle for the minor honours.
SELECTIONS
AGORIA (9) – MCTENETT (13) – NATIONAL SERVICE (4) – GAME RUN (3)
RACE 2: EPINARD MAIDEN STAKES (TURF TRACK) – 1000M – TIME: 20:30 PRIZE MONEY: EUR30000
Summary: SBIKHA (2) ran a decent race on her debut at Saint-Cloud over 900m late last month and can improve from that experience and get the better of LIMPIDE (3), who was a length behind in third in the same race. NO TUNE (7) has a speedy pedigree, and her dam was a winner of a Listed race and placed in a Group 3. She can be involved, as can the only colt in the lineup PITCH PERFECT (1), who is out of a mare that won over 1200m.
SELECTIONS
SBIKHA (2) – LIMPIDE (3) – NO TUNE (7) – PITCH PERFECT (1)
RACE 3: MONT PAGNOTTE STAKES (TURF TRACK) – 2200M – TIME: 21:05 PRIZE MONEY: EUR28000
Summary: In a small but competitive field, it might pay to side with the Andre Fabre-trained AVIDE (4), who won nicely on his debut last November, in a race that has produced several winners. He is marginally preferred over PIQUOISEAU (2), who won by over two lengths on his sole start at Bordeaux Le Bouscat in late October and looks a nice prospect. MIDAK (1) scored on debut on the PSF last month and warrants respect, with improvement expected on turf.
SELECTIONS
AVIDE (4) – PIQUOISEAU (2) – MIDAK (1) – PONDERADO (3)
RACE 4: HAMEAU DE LA BICHE HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1900M – TIME: 21:40 PRIZE MONEY: EUR13000
Summary: RED CRAZY (9) was a decent fourth at this track on his latest start over 1600m 12 days ago and should play a leading role. His main threat could be BECH RIVER (8), who was a narrow margin behind in fifth in the same race 12 days ago, and the two could fight out the finish. BOLT OF THUNDER (13) has dropped in the ratings and is well handicapped at the moment, he can not be discounted. PAS DE VELOURS (1) is another to consider off top weight.
SELECTIONS
RED CRAZY (9) – BECH RIVER (8) – BOLT OF THUNDER (13) – PAS DE VELOURS (1)
RACE 5: PRIX SIGY (GROUP 3) (TURF TRACK) – 1100M – TIME: 22:15 PRIZE MONEY: EUR80000
Summary: ARIZONA BLAZE (1) makes the trip over from Ireland and was a decent third in a Group 3 race at Leopardstown late last month over 1400m. The drop in trip should not be too much of an issue. RAYEVKA (6) looked smart when scoring at Chantilly in a maiden last year and was then pitched into a Group 1 race when finishing sixth. She can not be overlooked on her return outing. APOLLO FOUNTAIN (9) is speedy and can not be ruled out. POLYVEGA (10) is a course and distance winner and warrants respect.
SELECTIONS
ARIZONA BLAZE (1) – RAYEVKA (6) – APOLLO FOUNTAIN (9) – POLYVEGA (10)
RACE 6: PAVE DE LA BICHE HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1900M – TIME: 22:50 PRIZE MONEY: EUR15000
Summary: VESINABA (14) returned to form with a third-placed effort over track and trip in late March. He can score under his rider, Cristian Demuro. OSER (11) has been knocking on the door of late with two second-placed efforts, the latter at this track and trip on March 31st, a narrow margin ahead of the selection. PALIMERO (12) has eased in the handicap and is one to pay attention to each way. HOT SUMMER (13) can also have a say from the foot of the handicap.
SELECTIONS
VESINABA (14) – OSER (11) – PALIMERO (12) – HOT SUMMER (13)
RACE 7: MUSEE DE L’AIR ET DE L’ESPACE HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) – 1200M – TIME: 23:25 PRIZE MONEY: EUR20000
Summary: An open handicap with several of the field with some sort of chance. ICE CLIMBER (4) has had a couple of unplaced efforts since a decent second at Deauville and is the tentative selection ahead of ICE CLIMBER (4), who will be in a good frame of mind after a win last month at Fontainebleau in a Class 3 handicap. BOMBEY (5) has been placed twice recently and looks solid each way. ALBERTINELLI (8) is also worth a mention.
SELECTIONS
ICE CLIMBER (4) – BAILEYS BACHELOR (1) – BOMBEY (5) – ALBERTINELLI (8)
RACE 8: PAVE DE THIERS HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1900M – TIME: 00:00 PRIZE MONEY: EUR18000
Summary: SAN TEODORICO (9) is reasonably well handicapped at the moment and ran a decent race when fifth at Compiegne on his most recent outing. He is given the vote ahead of INKIOSTRO (7), who should appreciate the return to the PSF after a below par effort on the turf 13 days ago. She has decent course form this year. URI (13) ran well over 1600m at this track earlier this month and has Maxime Guyon to assist. ROI DE FLANDRE (4) is also one to keep safe.
SELECTIONS
SAN TEODORICO (9) – INKIOSTRO (7) – URI (13) – ROI DE FLANDRE (4)
RACE 9: DU BOURGET HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) – 1200M – TIME: 00:35 PRIZE MONEY: EUR27000
Summary: BABA SIM (14) was a fair fifth at Fontainebleau in a Class 3 handicap in mid-March on the latest start and is reasonably well treated in the handicap at the present. He can edge this over REGALIEN (13), who has two placed efforts recently and is adaptable trip-wise. SNOW GHOST (9) ran a good race to be second at Moulins last time, and it looks like one for the each-way backers to look at. SIMPLY LOVELY (11) makes up the shortlist.
SELECTIONS
BABA SIM (14) – REGALIEN (13) – SNOW GHOST (9) – SIMPLY LOVELY (11)
South Africa Express Form & Race Previews (Kenilworth) – April 14
Download your South Africa racing information for FREE now:
RACE BY RACE PREVIEWS: KENILWORTH@2025.04.14
HOLLYWOODBETS KENILWORTH, 14.04.2025, Race 1, Gallops, 1100m, Turf, R135,000, 12:00GMT+2Race Summary: ASHIKULE stayed on powerfully behind Military Command on debut, he was still very green and managed to finish second behind a smart horse that went on to win the Cape Slipper, with form like that and with natural improvement on the cards, he will be very hard to beat here. SPIRIT is a lovely colt, there is no doubt that he will mature into a nice horse with time, the yard thinks highly of this individual, he must be included into all bets. DEMANDING DAVE showed good improvement from his first start into his second start, he should be finishing off his race strongly, watch him closely. CALL OF THE KAROO has been rested for 77 days, he is much better than his last run, if he can put that poor performance behind him, he could sneak into the places.
Selections: #2 ASHIKULE, #5 SPIRIT, #11 DEMANDING DAVE, #8 CALL OF THE KAROO
HOLLYWOODBETS KENILWORTH, 14.04.2025, Race 2, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R125,000, 12:30GMT+2Race Summary: MARKETA ran a super race on debut behind Cliffscape on the 22nd of March, she was drawn poorly at Hollywoodbets Durbanville and she still managed to run just three lengths behind the winner, there is no doubt that she will improve tons from that performance, watch her closely, she has a big winning chance. UNA THE UNICORN improved nicely in her second start at the races behind Cliffscape, she will be stalking the speed early, and she will be storming home late, include her into all bets. PARALEGAL ran a lovely second behind Jordash on the 11th of February, her form is good, she will be right there in the finish. GOT THE LOOK was only beaten just over five lengths on debut, the form of that race has worked out well, she could sneak into the places at a big price.
Selections: #12 MARKETA, #1 UNA THE UNICORN, #2 PARALEGAL, #7 GOT THE LOOK
HOLLYWOODBETS KENILWORTH, 14.04.2025, Race 3, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R80,000, 13:05GMT+2Race Summary: THINGAMABOB ran a fair race behind Wehaveasituation on the 26th of March, she was unfortunately drawn badly on that occasion which didn’t help her chances, now that she drops back in trip, she should have a good winning chance here. CAPE CAPTAIN has improved nicely in her last two runs up the straight at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, the yard is in great form at the moment, she must have a good each way chance in this wide open race. ALEX MILLER drops back in trip for this Open Maiden on Saturday afternoon, she never runs a bad race, this looks to be a good opportunity for her to exit the maiden ranks, include her into the play. ALESSIA ASHEVILLE could be some decent value, she has been drawn terribly in her last two starts at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, and she has run two very nice races from those bad draws, with some luck in running on Saturday, she could absolutely trouble them all in the finish.
Selections: #4 THINGAMABOB, #9 CAPE CAPTAIN, #6 ALEX MILLER, #15 ALESSIA ASHEVILLE
HOLLYWOODBETS KENILWORTH, 14.04.2025, Race 4, Gallops, 1000m, Turf, R110,000, 13:40GMT+2Race Summary: HERITAGE RIDGE has run two very good seconds in succession, she is gutsy and she tries hard, this looks to be the perfect race for her to exit the maiden ranks, she will be tough to beat. TRIPPING THUNDER is as consistent as they come, he never runs a bad race, he will be on speed and should be in it for a long way, include him into all bets. DIGBY has been rested for a long time, he ran a super race on debut behind Billy Cool, if he doesn’t need the run badly, he could certainly win a race like this. IKO IKO has been rested for 298 days, his form is good, if he doesn’t need the run, he could be a major factor here.
Selections: #5 HERITAGE RIDGE, #2 TRIPPING THUNDER, #10 DIGBY, #11 IKO IKO
HOLLYWOODBETS KENILWORTH, 14.04.2025, Race 5, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R110,000, 14:15GMT+2Race Summary: KONNICHIWA stayed on strongly last time behind Bel Canto Dream, his last two runs have been very good, it’s not a straight forward race on paper, but he definitely has a good each way chance on Saturday. GOLD DUST ran a terrific race behind Dubbelosix on the 5th of March, there is no doubt that he is improving with every start, he should get the run of the race from a good draw, include him into all bets. VAPOUR TRAIL has been rested for 66 days, he is a two-year old taking on older horses which won’t be easy, but he is packed with ability and should love the step up in trip from a good draw. SMART HORSE was well beaten last time behind Noble Hero, he could sneak into the places at best. It’s a tricky race, you will need to go wide in all your bets.
Selections: #8 KONNICHIWA, #4 GOLD DUST, #2 VAPOUR TRAIL, #1 SMART HORSE
HOLLYWOODBETS KENILWORTH, 14.04.2025, Race 6, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R200,000, 14:50GMT+2Race Summary: KINDA WONDERFUL stayed on exceptionally well behind the improving Give Me Everything in the Listed Cape Fillies Classic, she will be stalking the speed early and running on strongly late, she must have a good winning chance here. PRINCESS IZZY ran a lovely race in the Grade 3 Prix Du Cap on the 22nd of February, she absolutely loves this trip of 1400m, from a good draw, she will be competitive and must be respected. SCARLET MACAW is much better than her last run, ignore that poor performance, even though she is drawn awkwardly, she should appreciate dropping in trip and will be hitting the line hard late. CALLMEGETRIX is as honest as they come, it will be a tough task for her to win, but she could earn some place money for the connections.
Selections: #5 KINDA WONDERFUL, #3 PRINCESS IZZY, #9 SCARLET MACAW, #7 CALLMEGETRIX
HOLLYWOODBETS KENILWORTH, 14.04.2025, Race 7, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R350,000, 15:25GMT+2Race Summary: GARRIX was gelded on the 24th of February, he is undoubtedly one of the better three year old’s in the country, his form is excellent and he will love the drop in trip to 1600m, he will be very hard to beat. ZAPATILLAS ran a much better race in the Listed Jet Master Stakes behind The Real Prince, he is a good looking sort packed with tons of ability, he is slowly starting to drop in the ratings, watch him closely, he should be right there in the finish on his best form. LET IT BE SAID won well on the 8th of March at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, he can be quite strong in his races, if he relaxes early and settles into a good rhythm, he could be competitive with no weight on his back. BILLY BOWLEGS had no luck in running last time, he was taken up for a number of strides in the home straight, with a clear passage on Saturday, he could sneak into the places at a decent price.
Selections: #3 GARRIX, #4 ZAPATILLAS, #9 LET IT BE SAID, #5 BILLY BOWLEGS
HOLLYWOODBETS KENILWORTH, 14.04.2025, Race 8, Gallops, 1800m, Turf, R135,000, 16:00GMT+2Race Summary: LA PULGA absolutely took off late to run a great race behind All Out For Six on the 16th of March, he was a long way back in running and really caught the eye late, he should love the step up in trip to 1800m, on his best form, he will be hard to beat here. PINOT GRIGIO has been rested for 115 days, he is still improving with every start, if he doesn’t need the run badly, he could be a serious threat with no weight on his back. RULE OF THUMB won well on the 8th of February at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, he was given three points for that victory, he is a gutsy sort that tries hard, if the race works out for him, he could earn again in this competitive race. FIBONACCI hasn’t won for a long time, he ran a fair race last time behind Legal Counsel, if he can improve from that performance, he will have a money chance.
Selections: #7 LA PULGA, #5 PINOT GRIGIO, #8 RULE OF THUMB, #3 FIBONACCI
HOLLYWOODBETS KENILWORTH, 14.04.2025, Race 9, Gallops, 1100m, Turf, R135,000, 16:40GMT+2Race Summary: KAIBOY is packed with ability, he ran a lovely second behind Symphony In White on the 26th of February, the yard have always spoken highly of this individual, he should get a good run in transit just behind the speed, and he will be low flying late. ARCTIC WIZARD had no luck in running from a wide draw last time at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, ignore that run completely, he will be on speed and should run a cracker now that he is back up the straight at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth. ELUSIVE WINTER has been in excellent form of late, he is a real speedball, he looks to be maturing into a nice sprinter, this is the horse they will all need to fetch late, he must be respected. NORDIC CHIEF quickened up smartly to win a good race on the 5th of March, he was given four points for that win, he must be included into the Quartet.
Selections: #7 KAIBOY, #9 ARCTIC WIZARD, #1 ELUSIVE WINTER, #8 NORDIC CHIEF
HOLLYWOODBETS KENILWORTH, 14.04.2025, Race 10, Gallops, 1000m, Turf, R110,000, 17:15GMT+2Race Summary: THE US OF A has been rested and gelded, he is much better than his last run on the 25th of January, if he doesn’t need the run badly, he will be super competitive on his best form. PIROSHKA has dropped nicely in the ratings, his form of late has been very good, he could be some decent value in the lucky last. RATTLESNAKE stayed on strongly late last time behind Peace Of Mind, if he gets the right run in transit, he will be hitting the line hard, include him into all bets. PEACE OF MIND led the field from start to finish on the 16th of March, she won a good race, she was only given two points for that victory, with similar tactics here, she could be hard to fetch, watch her closely.
Selections: #7 THE US OF A, #8 PIROSHKA, #11 RATTLESNAKE, #16 PEACE OF MIND
Best Win: #3 GARRIX Best Value Bet: #5 KINDA WONDERFUL Best Longshot: #5 HERITAGE RIDGE
Australia – Sunday 13 April
Download your Australia express forms and form guides for FREE here:
| Geraldton | |
|
 |
| Sunshine Coast | |
|
|
Australia – Saturday 12 April
Download your Australia express forms and form guides for FREE here:
| Ascot | |
|
|
| Doomben | |
|
|
| Randwick | |
|
|
Australia – Sunday 6 April
Download your Australia express forms and form guides for FREE here:
| Geraldton | |
|
|
| Sunshine Coast | |
|
|