The RM300,000 Group 1 Equine Sanctuary Tunku Gold Cup (1200m), the first leg of the Triple Crown Series, will feature a full field of 14 contenders this Sunday afternoon at Selangor Turf Club. No. 1 AWESOME STORM: A seasoned campaigner, his recent form has been mixed, with a third-place finish at Supreme A company in his last start. However, carrying top weight remains a significant concern. No. 2 SUPER SALUTE: This former Singapore galloper has shown promise in all three of his starts in Malaysia, though he is yet to win. If he can recapture the form that saw him win feature races at Kranji, he will be a strong contender. No. 3 ANTIPODEAN: With an impressive record of nine wins from 12 starts, he is undoubtedly the most progressive horse in Malaysia in recent years. He is well weighted against most of his rivals in this feature and looks on track to claim his second victory at the highest level. No. 4 PLATINUM EMPEROR: Formerly racing in Macau, he exceeded expectations with a dominant win in a 5YO race on his local debut. Since then, he has trialled impressively and looks to be a strong contender to give trainer Ricky Choi his first Group 1 victory. No. 5 PLATINUM FORT: The other runner from Ricky Choi’s stable, he faces an uphill task to make his local debut in a Group 1 event. A place finish seems his best chance. No. 6 ARIGATO: Blessed with great early speed, he made all with an effortless victory in a Supreme A race last time out. However, with a larger field this time, the expected fast pace may not play to his advantage. No. 7 CHINESE TEA: A consistent front-runner, he may struggle against the tougher competition in this week’s field, having failed to place in five previous starts at Group 1 level. No. 8 SHIRVO: He has shown promise, finishing second in both of his local starts. Despite facing tough competition this week, a Top 3 finish would not be surprising. No. 9 CHEVAL BLANC: One of the most versatile horses in Malaysia in recent years, he has claimed victories over distances ranging from 1200m to 2000m, including three Group 1 wins. If he is overlooked in the market this week, he is certainly worth considering. No. 10 PACIFIC VAMPIRE: He is likely to be the first to reach the 400m mark, but his ability to sustain the effort in the straight is highly questionable, as indicated by his recent performances. No. 11 WITNESSIMPACT: Although winless from nine overseas starts, he has been a revelation since moving to Malaysia, with five victories from eight outings. Given his rapid progress, he must be considered one of the better chances. No. 12 TE AKAU BEN: His recent form has been promising, although he typically performs best over 1400m or above. However, if the pace is set too fast up front, he could sneak into the placings at long odds. No. 13 GOOD FIGHT: He finished a solid third in the Group 1 Perak Derby two weeks ago, but the significant drop in distance from 2000m to 1200m may raise concerns. No. 14 GOLDEN PEGASUS: This quality five-year-old has been placed in both of his Group 1 starts, so he should not be overlooked, despite being poorly weighted under this week’s racing conditions. No. 15 NOAH KHAN (EA1): He scored a 5.25-length victory at big odds in Supreme A company last time out. If he can replicate that performance, he will be a genuine contender here. No. 16 RENZO (EA2): After an all-the-way victory in a small field of three last week, he will face much tougher competition at Group 1 level this time. No. 17 EMERALD LISI (EA3): Given his narrow win in Class 3 last start, it will be a challenge for him to finish in the Top 3. Given the size of the field, a fast pace is expected, which could benefit horses like ANTIPODEAN, SUPER SALUTE, PLATINUM EMPEROR, WITNESSIMPACT, and TE AKAU BEN. Other contenders, including SHIRVO, CHEVAL BLANC, and GOOD FIGHT, are also in the mix. Additionally, the race conditions favour higher-rated horses over their lower-rated counterparts.

My Wish and Rubylot head an enthralling group of 14 selected runners for the HK$26 million 148th BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) at Sha Tin next Sunday (23 March) – the supreme test for Hong Kong’s four-year-old bracket all chasing once-in-a-lifetime glory. Victorious in the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m), the first leg of the three-race Four-Year-Old Classic Series, My Wish shoots for a fifth Hong Kong win and first in the city’s most sought-after contest for his trainer Mark Newnham. Rubylot is the highest rated runner in the field on 100. Successful in the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m), the second leg of the Four-Year-Old Classic Series, Rubylot will aim to give two-time Hong Kong Champion Trainer (1997/98 & 1998/99) David Hayes a second Classic win in Hong Kong after super filly Elegant Fashion captured the 2003 edition. First run in 1873, the BMW Hong Kong Derby is restricted to four-year-old runners over 2000m. Past winners of the coveted crown include River Verdon (1991), Oriental Express (1997), Vengeance Of Rain (2005), Viva Pataca (2006), Ambitious Dragon (2011), Designs On Rome (2014), Werther (2016), Rapper Dragon (2017), Golden Sixty (2020), Romantic Warrior (2022) and Voyage Bubble (2023). Last year’s BMW Hong Kong Derby was won by Massive Sovereign. Joining the winners of the first two legs of the HK$52 million Four-Year-Old Classic Series – My Wish and Rubylot – is a cavalcade of stars compiling form references from many corners of the globe. Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, Chief Executive Officer, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said at today’s (Friday, 14 March) selection announcement: “I would like to congratulate all the owners of the 14 horses selected to run in the BMW Hong Kong Derby next Sunday, which we celebrate as the Hong Kong race which offers once-in-a-lifetime glory. “BMW Hong Kong Derby Day is one of the great sporting events and attractions in the city for our Hong Kong racing fans and our racing fans from around the world, with the race being broadcast in 26 countries. The Derby has a rich history stretching back more than 150 years to 1873. To have a runner in the Derby field is an ambition for every horse owner, trainer and jockey in Hong Kong and is already a great achievement. And to win the BMW Hong Kong Derby is the ultimate. “The Derby has produced a string of world-class horses who have advanced to greatness on the world racing stage, none more so than our global champion Romantic Warrior who won the Derby in 2022. Romantic Warrior also holds the world record for prize money earned after winning Group 1 races in four separate jurisdictions. “This year’s Four-Year-Old Classic Series has been incredibly competitive with My Wish winning the Hong Kong Classic Mile and Rubylot winning the Hong Kong Classic Cup with both horses aim for a double in the Four-Year-Old Classic Series but they will be challenged by many rising stars. It is fair to say this year’s Derby is one of the most open in memory. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank BMW and Sime Motors Group (Hong Kong & Macau), which has been the Hong Kong Derby’s sponsor since 2013.” Second in the 2024 version with a fast-finishing Galaxy Patch, Pierre Ng will chase BMW Hong Kong Derby glory with two-time winner Johannes Brahms, who managed to close off for third in the Hong Kong Classic Cup. Legendary racing figure Tony Cruz and the BMW Hong Kong Derby have been intertwined since Cruz tasted his first success in the race as a jockey in 1983. He won the race three more times in 1987, 1988 and 1995, while as a trainer he has prevailed with Lucky Owners (2004) and Helene Mascot (2008). Cruz, 68, saddles Stunning Peach and five-time winner Californiatotality. Stunning Peach, formerly based in Ireland, made ground to finish sixth in the Hong Kong Classic Cup. Cruz’s wins as a jockey came aboard Co-Tack (1983), Tea For Two II (1987), Clear City (1988) and Makarpura Star (1995). Francis Lui swept all three legs of the 2020 Four-Year-Old Classic Series with Golden Sixty, who is only the second horse to achieve that feat after Rapper Dragon (2017), and Lui is represented by Packing Angel, Cap Ferrat and Steps Ahead. John Size has won the BMW Hong Kong Derby three times with Fay Fay (2012), Luger (2015) and Ping Hai Star (2018). Hong Kong’s master horseman – a 12-time Hong Kong Champion Trainer – fields Bundle Award, Mickley and Beauty Alliance this year. Bundle Award raced into contention for Size after posting a last-to-first Class 2 success earlier this month at Sha Tin under jockey Ben Thompson, who rides the horse again, while a pair of brilliant wins at Happy Valley, including last Wednesday (12 March) by over three lengths, sees an exciting Beauty Alliance complete Size’s trio. Following Massive Sovereign’s success in 2024, trainer Dennis Yip is going for a second straight triumph with Noisy Boy in the BMW Hong Kong Derby. A course and distance winner two starts ago in Class 2, Noisy Boy is aiming to bounce back after fading to 13th in the Hong Kong Classic Cup. A graduate of the 2024 Hong Kong International Sale, Markwin will be trainer Cody Mo’s first runner in the BMW Hong Kong Derby. The son of I Am Invincible has earned HK$4.4 million across nine runs headlined by two wins – including a last-start second to Bundle Award at Class 2 level to enhance his rating to 81. Caspar Fownes is a dual BMW Hong Kong Derby-winning trainer after Super Satin (2010) and Sky Darci (2021). The 57-year-old is represented by Harzand gelding Lo Rider – a two-time winner in Ireland at Cork and The Curragh before arriving in Hong Kong. Mr Andrew Harding, Executive Director, Racing, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said: “The BMW Hong Kong Derby is one of the most prestigious races on the calendar – a once-in-a-lifetime challenge that every owner aspires to have a runner in, or better still, win. We are expecting 2025 to provide another memorable chapter to an enduring story of excellence, and as the 148th edition of the race in Hong Kong, we are immensely proud of its history.” “The honour roll speaks for itself. In recent years we have seen the likes of Golden Sixty, Romantic Warrior and Voyage Bubble follow BMW Hong Kong Derby glory with Group 1 successes at Sha Tin and, overseas in the case of Romantic Warrior. The 2025 renewal is shaping as another remarkable edition with a host of incredible talents converging on Sha Tin next Sunday.” The race, which is limited to 14 runners, has four reserves: Mondial, Sky Heart, Pray For Mir and Sky Trust.

Get ready for one of the most thrilling times of the year in world racing! This Saturday marks the kickoff of the Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival , starting at Rosehill, and all eyes will be on the Group 1 Coolmore Classic for fillies and mares. With a purse of $1 million on the line, the stakes are high, and the questions are even higher! Can the highly anticipated three-year-old Lady Shenandoah live up to the hype and deliver on her promise? Will last year’s Golden Slipper winner, Lady of Camelot, spark a thrilling new rivalry and prove she’s still the one to beat? Is Amelia’s Jewel truly ready to claim her place as one of Australia’s top mares, or will the pressure be too much? And can the talented Coeur Volante rise to the challenge in the cutthroat Sydney racing scene? All of these questions will be answered this Saturday in the feature event that promises drama, speed, and excitement. Don’t miss out!  SKY Racing’s Brad Gray and Sam Phillips bring you the ultimate preview of the race, offering expert insights into all the contenders.

Two Class 4 events will headline the nine-race program from Perak Turf Club on Saturday commencing at 1.15pm. In the first division (Race 8), promising 3yo PEAKY BLINDER returns to Class 4 company for the first time since successive victories in the grade back in September last year. The locally trained gelding performed admirably against the high graders with two minor placings at Class 3 level and a Cosmo C respectively. Given every opportunity last start in the race won by Leong Ma Biscuit over 1300m on February 8, PEAKY BLINDER (1) will only rise 1.5kg in the weights for regular jockey, HS Gill and should prove hard to beat on the downgrade. BRANDENBURG (2), currently in the care of his fourth trainer since debuting in Malaysia back in December 2023, has been a model of consistency recently with three minor placings in a row behind some progressive types. Recording five wins in the country, including a winning hat trick in November, the 4yo is a reliable beginner and from barrier six should be placed on speed with jockey KC Wong to take the ride. YOU THINK SO (7) was heavily supported in the local market and duly saluted over this distance here three weeks ago. Drawing gate two on that occasion, the 4yo has to contend with the outside gate (Br10) this time but is still a chance of recording successive wins, which he accomplished in April and May of last year. SWEET LOVE (10) was beaten a nose behind YOU THINK SO (6) after trying to lead throughout and will no doubt break through at this level very soon. The gelding scored at his local debut over this track and distance in November and looks poised to strike on the minimum. GROOVY (5) is a proven Class 4 performer in Singapore and his recent trial in KL should place him in good stead for a forward showing first up in the country. Race 8 Selections: (1) PEAKY BLINDER   (2) BRANDENBURG   (6) YOU THINK SO   (10) SWEET LOVE  The second division (Race 9) winds up the meeting at 5.25pm and appears to be a more open contest. MONTANA FLASH (1) will strip fitter following his first run for the year over 1200m here three weeks ago when finishing 6th, beaten four lengths behind Man Of Action. The 6yo seems to perform best over the middle distances but Saturday’s race is not overly strong and he can strike over the 1200m trip. THUNDER SPIRIT (4) finished just ahead of MONTANA FLASH (1) in that same race and is capable of scoring at this level. The 7yo finally broke the maiden tag at his run prior and looks a chance despite the deep draw. After five runs locally, MOCHI (6) opened his Malaysian account when leading throughout in KL over 1150m a fortnight ago. The gelding was heavily supported into favorite and is a chance of going back-to-back on his first visit to the Perak circuit. FORTUNE STAR (10) delivered over the mile in January and has been racing well at this level since. Coming from wide barriers at his past two starts, the 7yo has reeled off fast final sectionals when coming from rearward positions both times and with luck in running, is capable of delivering his first Class 4 success. SILENT BOSS (5) caught the eye with a fast-finishing 3rd at big odds in Man Of Action’s race but he can be inconsistent at times. Race 9 Selections: (1) MONTANA FLASH   (4) THUNDER SPIRIT   (6) MOCHI   (10) FORTUNE STAR

Most of the weekend’s interest will be centered on Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Sunday where One Stripe will be out to add one final local pay cheque to his booming stake winnings before heading off to the United States. The winning purse for the R5 million HSH Princess Charlene Big Cap is R3 million and barring a major upset, the race should prove little more than a doddle for One Stripe who is all of 8kg best in at the weights. However, with Hollywoodbets Kenilworth hosting the big racing on Sunday, Hollywoodbets Scottsville hosts a competitive eight-race programme where punters will be tested. One of the better bets on the card could come in the fourth where Mark Dixon saddles Master Du Rouvray. The gelding may just have needed his last run, his first back after a lengthy break and he meets some modest opposition. He should be able to go one better. O Space O could be his biggest threat although he was a little disappointing when send out a short-prices favourite last time out. MJ Odendaal’s charge has improved in blinkers and this shorter trip may suit. Vencedor has not been far back in his last two on this course and this appears to be his ideal trip. Doin’ Time is a long-time battler having his 24^th start but his last run was much improved although that was on the poly. Beautiful Rania in the sixth could come home at decent odds as she has come down in the handicap and now looks to be off a more competitive mark. She is never too far behind. Fort J’Dore is the best performed in the race going for her sixth win and although she has the widest draw she is back on her more favoured surface and should feature in this company. Siberian Winter also has a wide draw to contend with but has shown up well in her two recent sprints and the extra furlong could suit. Buttercup Baby looks progressive and has only had three starts. She was not far back in her handicap debut and could prefer this shorter trip. Golden Chandelier has her first run for Dennis Bosch in the seventh and is one to watch in the market. Her Highveld form had gone off at recent outings but the change of environment could bring out the best although she does return from a lengthy break. Happy Analia found stable companion One Smart Cookie just too smart at her last run but it was an improved effort. Tienie Prinsloo’s filly goes well on this course. Mamas Baby could be a threat as she has started favourite in four of her last five starts. Her last two were on the poly where she won and was a close-up second at her most recent so is one to include in most calculations. In the eighth Lexican Point makes his local debut for Frikkie Greyling after showing some fair Cape form. That form has recently proven stronger than local and the change of environment and a big drop in the ratings could see him home for his second win. Mar Del Plata has been in good form over course and distance and should give another good account. All The Time has run two big races over course and distance of late and is now 1.5kg better off with Abaddon who jumped five points in the handicap for his last win with All The Time less than a length back. In the opening leg of the Pick 6, Ms Galore has not had much luck in running in both starts. She made a smart debut and if building on that could be the one to beat in an open affair although she does take on males. Verification made some improvement second time out and her first on turf. She can do better in this field while Life On The Tides improved nicely second time at the races. He should have a god chance in this field. Upset material is Sovereign Command who has been disappointing since showing early promise but could surprise on his best showing. In the opening leg of the jackpot, a maiden plate, Call Me Harriet got a big shunt up the ratings after her second to the promising Mocha Blend but disappointed next time out on the poly. She stays the trip and should be competitive in this line-up. Danger could be Royal Mermaid who has only had three starts, two of those on the poly where she did not shape. However, her one effort on the turf showed some promise and she meets a modest line-up. Umzolozolo has not been far back at recent outings over shorter. The step up in trip should suit while Magic Maverick put in a much better showing last time out when running on late. This trip should suit. Black Frost is the only runner to have been in a race in the card opener and has shown some ability. Experience could count but I’m A Fireball  got a thumbs up from the De Kock stable and given a good each-way chance. In the first leg of the PA, Captain’s Pride has shown up well in both starts to date and does rate the one to beat while Malshana Mou found some market support on debut but did not handle the soft ground and is likely to improve.

The mighty One Stripe will likely have his last spin around a South African racecourse on Sunday at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth. He has dominated his division, seen off the best horses in the land in South Africa’s Premier Weight For Age race and now with his immediate future likely to be in USA, his supporters are encouraged to be part of what should be an easy win in the HSH Princess Charlene Big Cap over 1400m. It takes a top horse to win the Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas, but it takes a special three-year-old to regather itself and dominate the L’Ormarins Kings Plate just three weeks later. A few three-year-olds have won the Kings Plate, but to salute in both these Grade 1 1600m events in the same season has not been done since the 1970s. The Big Cap is a race restricted to horses bought off CRS Sales through 2022 and 2023, so his opposition is diluted. He has the hard ask of giving weight away, but off his merit rating of 132, that is surely justified. He carried the same 60kg to win the Cape Guineas. Gavin Lerena has partnered this son of One World in his last five starts. Vaughan Marshall has done a great job picking his races. One must bare in mind that this race was a natural target. The Kings Plate became a reality after the Cape Guineas. The fact that he has been off the course for two months should not be a huge concern because he had a gallop at the racecourse about two weeks before raceday. Simply put, he is the best horse in the race. He is nearly if not the best horse in South Africa. Despite the weight to shoulder, he should have more than enough. Stable companion All Out For Six gave One Stripe a huge fright when they met in the Grade 2 Cape Punters Cup over 1600m in November. He is 2kg better off for a 1,75-length beating. All Out For Six was probably riper for that race than One Stripe was. Plus, the race was run on the shorter straight, so All Out For Six was able to get away. He has lost some of his shine since that run, but for a R5-million purse, the shine could be back which might make him a dangerous rival. Empire State is developing into a very smart sprinter, but he will be challenged over this distance. He has a lot of good things to come and his talent could get him into the top three. He has just 53kg to carry. Although the race will need to be run according to his preference if he takes home a cheque. Holding Thumbs has a ton of upside to him. Trainer Glen Kotzen has gone on record saying he will target the Hollywoodbets Durban July and the HKJC World Pool Gold Cup later in the season. If he holds those aspirations, he should win the Listed Monaco Sport Of Kings Kenilworth Cup over 2400m. He has not put many a hoof wrong this season, but it was his last win that was most taking. He slammed Call To Unite by 1,75 lengths over 2000m in a dominant performance. He could have won more easily than that. Sean Veale gets the most out of him and he is carded to take the ride. The other feature on the card is a strong Cape Racing Sales Slipper over 1200m, race 2. Interesting dynamics are at play because some of these two-year-olds have been faultless but have queries about going the extra distance. Dreamworld has a huge reputation and his debut win was workmanlike. He showed pace and fought to take victory, pulling clear again at the end. Lerena and Marshall team up with Dreamworld and this could set the tone for their day. Malmesbury Missile has a lot to come himself. He won his last start impressively, beating Vapour Trail by one length. Pay The Palace, who came third, won last Saturday. He is regarded as a big chance in the Slipper too. This is his first run for trainer Justin Snaith. Meu Capitano might not have reached 1600m at his last start when he finished tamely behind The Real Prince. His last run over 1400m yielded an impressive win over Grade 1 winner Snow Pilot, where he ran far above his rating. Returning to the distance he seems most effective over could be key and he is the horse to recommend in race 9. Although not a feature, race 5 over 1100m is a high-quality event. Tenango is well on his way through the divisions and he has a feature written all over him. As a youngster, he had a few breathing issues but since those were ironed out, he has performed with aplomb. His turn of foot is a huge asset. Andrew Fortune is carded to take the ride for Candice Bass-Robinson. Fortune has some of the best hands in the business. Follow Your Heart put up an encouraging debut a month ago and that evidence should be enough to see him just about win race 1 over 1000m. Over the same course and distance, he found his stride late but the winner, Spacebound had run away. He looked more “ready” for that assignment. With natural improvement, Follow Your Heart should have enough unless a first timer has something about them. Rattlesnake crossed the line in front in his last start but he was demoted in the boardroom. The margin of a short head counted against him as he was deemed to have bumped Bluff On Bluff enough for the Stewards to reverse the result. The handicappers did not increase his rating which they might have done had he kept the race. As a result, he is selected to win race 3 over 1000m. Race 4 over 1000m is a swirl and punters are recommended to include as many as they can. Some of these have met on numerous occasions and beaten each other so to get a gauge is easier said than done. First Masterpiece could be the right horse now, seeking a hat-trick of wins. She was given a five-point penalty for his most recent win. If the handicapper has not got her number, she could win again. JP van der Merwe is carded to ride and he would have had the choice between First Masterpiece and Mai Sensation, who has a chance. Others in the picture are Miss Marguerite, Blue Holly, Babelicious and Furious Queen. Ahead Of The Facts won impressively at his last run when he came from a mile back to chase down Umfula, who won himself and he reopposes. They meet on identical terms for the 1,25 lengths between them over 2000m last month. It must be noted that the race was run at insane sectionals so it was always going to suit a horse coming from far back. He hit the line with a lot in hand, though. He is strongly considered in race 6 over 2200m. Green Garnet has been a revelation since relocating to Cape Town and his current form is hard to ignore. Again, punters are at the mercy of the handicapper but he has been fluent in his wins and he could take the honours in race 10 over 1400m. Lerena is on board. He beat the highly regarded Regulation by 0,75 lengths in his last start. Other chances include Honor Of Kings, Sail To The Moon, Boogiefied, King’s Quest and Industrialstrength.

Lyle Hewitson removed luck from the equation aboard Highland Rahy (126lb) and the rider found a willing partner as Francis Lui’s galloper secured a first Hong Kong win in the Class 4 Ireland Trophy Handicap (1650m) at Happy Valley tonight (Wednesday, 12 March). Successful in Ireland pre-import, Highland Rahy fired to an uncontested lead under Hewitson from barrier seven and never looked back, clutching onto a three quarter length victory over a ground-making Viva Graciousness (135lb) in the HK$1.17 million feature race. “I think he’s (Highland Rahy) found a mark now where he should be winning and it’s probably been frustrating that he hasn’t,” Hewitson said. “He showed how he wants to race – he wants to roll, pick up and just build into it.” Gearing up to ride Steps Ahead in the HK$26 million 148th BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) on Sunday week (23 March), Hewitson lifted his haul to 16 wins this season, also riding a double last Sunday (9 March) at Sha Tin. Following a recent near miss atop Highland Rahy, the 27-year-old jockey was delighted to repay connections with breakthrough success on the American-bred gelding tonight. “He’s happy to sit one off but he needs to roll the whole way and we saw that, a horse came to him, although far away from him to get up to almost level, but he fought on again. It’s an overdue win and I’m happy I could stick aboard to do it,” Hewitson said. Three times South Africa’s leading rider, Hewitson teams with Lui and the 83-rated Steps Ahead in the BMW Hong Kong Derby – the third and final leg of the three-race HK$52 million Four-Year-Old Classic Series – at Sha Tin in 11 days’ time. “I think his (Steps Ahead) rating is pretty true of where he is in the field but he’s the most genuine horse and he’s probably one of the most versatile, too,” Hewitson said. “This will be stretching him but against his own age group and being such an easy and versatile horse, it gives him every chance.” A shot at once-in-a-lifetime glory awaits 14 horses in Hong Kong’s most-prized race, which is expected to be headed by Rubylot and My Wish – winners of the first two Four-Year-Old Classic Series legs. The selected BMW Hong Kong Derby field will be announced this Friday (14 March). Trainer Cody Mo sealed a double with Happy Fat Cat’s (122lb) grinding win – his eighth across 44 Hong Kong starts – in the first section of the Class 3 Cheung Chau Handicap (1200m) under jockey Antoine Hamelin ahead of King Of Fighters (124lb). “I love this horse and I love the owner. They have supported me a lot and that’s what we need,” Hamelin said. “The horse has a big heart and I always do very well with him – I’m very happy to get the winner for everyone.” Mo was on the board early at the city circuit as Crystal Powerful edged to a close-up score in the Class 5 Waglan Island Handicap (1000m) with jockey Andrea Atzeni, who also posted a double when American Pharoah galloper Great Spirit claimed the second section of the Class 4 Peng Chau Handicap (1200m) for trainer Dennis Yip. Crystal Powerful became a three-time winner in Hong Kong with tonight’s 8/1 triumph. “We dropped in class and he was back to 1000 metres, which I thought was a good shout because he’s been showing a lot of speed over 1200,” Atzeni said. “He had a good draw (three) and good trip. I know he had top weight (135lb) but he had good form in Class 4.” Championship-leading trainer John Size kicked off a double with Beauty Infinity’s success in the second section of the Class 3 Cheung Chau Handicap (1200m) under Brenton Avdulla, who extended a sparkling run of form with his fifth win from the past three fixtures and 31st overall this term. “It’s been a good little run. I’m getting the right opportunities and it’s about trying to make the most of it. The horses are racing well and John’s team is racing well,” Avdulla said. BMW Hong Kong Derby entrant Beauty Alliance capped Size’s brace with a dominant display under the hands of Alexis Badel in the Class 3 Ap Lei Chau Handicap (1800m) to lift the Australian Racing Hall of Famer to an unrivalled 39 wins. Badel earlier rode Tactical Command to win the third section of the Class 4 Peng Chau Handicap (1200m). “He (Beauty Alliance) began very well. There was no early pressure and no pace on, so I could get him into a nice rhythm. When we took off, he really responded well, he’s a classy horse,” Badel said. “It’s fantastic to get a double. The horses are doing well.” Making his first start in Class 4, Frankel six-year-old Find My Love was the beneficiary of a composed Hugh Bowman ride to return a third Hong Kong win in the first section of the Peng Chau Handicap (1200m) for trainer Douglas Whyte. Angus Chung bagged his 10th victory this season aboard Good Luck Win in the second section of the Class 4 Soko Islands Handicap (1650m) for trainer Jimmy Ting. Hong Kong racing continues at Sha Tin this Saturday (15 March). By Declan Schuster

Once again, there is some good racing at Fairview on Friday and the pick of the card is Race 6, a Pinnacle Stakes over 1600m, where trainer Justin Snaith should get a decent performance from five-year-old gelding Without Question. The United States gelding has not won a race for some time now but has recently been campaigning over further. However, he has run well over this distance and should make bold attempt at beating these rivals. Muzi Yeni gets the ride. Earlier on in the card in Race 3, the Oaks Plate over 1800m, his stable companion, filly Lady Springfield, will be many people’s choice of a banker in the Pick 6. The Master Of My Fate filly has already won twice over this distance and makes the trip from the Western Cape. It will be the first time Yeni will be aboard her but he is hungry for winners and he looks set for a good afternoon. The feature race of the comes up in Race 7, the East Cape Fillies Nursery (Listed) over 1200m, where unbeaten Anotherdanceforme will be put to the test. This two-year-old Master Of My Fate filly has won twice already beating rival in this Bonjour Laville both times. It was touch and go last time out over the 1000m and there should not much between those two runners. There are three other runners with serious winning credentials. Instaworthy was a comfortable winner on debut and was not disgraced when taking them on at Kenilworth in January, finishing third, so she clearly must be respected. Western Cape raider Music Of The Night represents the Snaith Racing/Yeni combination and this filly has improved with each start. Silva City is another who can get involved with the finish as her form behind Instaworthy twice suggests she should not be far away at the finish. Clive Robinson

Title-chasing Gavin Lerena slipped into third place on the National Jockey standings last week after Richard Fourie’s four-timer at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Wednesday took the reigning champions tally of winners for the season to 151 and into second behind log-leader Craig Zackey (165). Lerena (149) replied with a double of his own the following day on the Vaal Classic track and the jostling between the three leading riders shows no sign of abating. The eight-race Inside track meeting at Turffontein on Thursday 13 March presents another good opportunity for Lerena to take another sizeable chunk out of Zackey’s lead, as three of his rides on the card look confident win bets. The two “baby” races are likely to go the way of Lerena, who rides Whispering Death (Race 1) and Emerald Forge (Race 2) for the powerful Mike and Mathew de Kock outfit. Both De Kock runners finished second on debut and will be hard to beat with natural improvement expected. Danon Platina colt Whispering Death got going late – once the penny had dropped – to fill the runner-up berth over 1400m on the Standside track last month. He would’ve come on appreciably with the benefit of that experience and need not improve much to go one better in the opener over 1450m. Stablemate Emerald Forge was also a fast-finishing second on debut. She jumped odds-on favourite that day but blew her chances at the start before making eye-catching late headway over 1160m. On that evidence, the step up to 1450m will be more to her liking so she should reward followers with a victory at the second attempt. Candice Dawson-trained Desert Cloud has filled the runner-up berth in each of her two appearances, both over 1000m with Lerena aboard. She returns from a two-month layoff in Race 3 and it will likely be a case of third time lucky for the well-bred Gimmethegreenlight filly with the step up to 1200m. Ryan Munger, who also bagged a brace at the last midweek meeting on the Highveld, ought to repeat the feat with a race-to-race double of his own aboard Sean Tarry’s improving Tana Maree in Race 4 and consistent Craig Mayhew-trained Canford Cliffs filly Instant Attraction in Race 5. Clive Robinson

In advance of his first overseas challenge, Howdeepisyourlove continues to satisfy trainer John Size as preparations keep on for the five-year-old speedster ahead of Dubai’s G1 Al Quoz Sprint (1200m) on Dubai World Cup Night (Saturday, 5 April) at Meydan. Size’s Group 3 winner is aiming to join Joy And Fun (2010), Amber Sky (2014) and California Spangle (2024) on the Al Quoz Sprint honour roll when he ships to the Middle East to represent Hong Kong, China along with Romantic Warrior and Sword Point. Global star Romantic Warrior is preparing for the G1 Dubai Turf (1800m), while Frankie Lor’s Sword Point contests the G2 Godolphin Mile (1600m, dirt). Tuning up this morning (Tuesday, 11 March) at Sha Tin, Howdeepisyourlove finished an untested fifth over 1050m on dirt in 1m 02.38s under jockey Ben Thompson. Stablemate Stellar Express was first across the line in the same batch, clocking 1m 02.04s. “He (Howdeepisyourlove) looks to be in pretty good shape. He’s healthy and well. I think he flies on the 24th (of March), so at the moment everything is on track,” Size said. The Deep Field gelding rates 116 locally. He has placed third twice at Group 1 level behind Ka Ying Rising and is a one-time winner (from one attempt) on Sha Tin’s straight course in the HK$4.2 million G3 Bauhinia Sprint Trophy Handicap (1000m) last January. James McDonald rides Howdeepisyourlove next month in the United Arab Emirates. California Spangle led home a star-studded opening trial this morning in 1m 10.95s. The Group 1 winner bested Invincible Shield, Galaxy Patch, Helios Express, Nucleozor, Superb Kid, Beauty Eternal, Ensued and Red Lion over 1200m on dirt. Galaxy Patch next features in the HK$5.35 million G2 Chairman’s Trophy (1600m) on 30 March for trainer Pierre Ng, who is yet to make a call on contesting either the HK$24 million G1 FWD Champions Mile (1600m) or HK$28 million G1 FWD QEII Cup (2000m) on FWD Champions Day (27 April) at Sha Tin with the five-year-old. “I’m really happy with the trial. It didn’t seem too fast. He was a little bit keen around the bend and in the straight he needed a signal (from the jockey) and he came back up easily. “He’s healthy, he’s fit and we’re going for the Group 2 at the end of the month. We’ll see how he performs before we decide on FWD Champions Day. It depends on what the opposition will be and also how he runs over the mile. We’ll see,” Ng said. Galaxy Patch clocked 1m 11.45s in third position with Matthew Poon up. The fixture on 30 March at Sha Tin also features the HK$5.35 million G2 Sprint Cup (1200m). By Declan Schuster

Bundle Award charged into HK$26 million BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) calculations with a brilliant victory in the Class 2 Carpenter Handicap (1800m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (9 March) to fan hopes of a fourth Classic triumph for champion trainer John Size. Ridden perfectly by Ben Thompson, the 75-rating Shamus Award gelding (115lb) charged from last at the 400m in a searing 22.11s to down Markwin (115lb) and Helene Feeling (135lb) to enhance claims of clinching a place in the BMW Hong Kong Derby on 23 March. “It felt as good as it would have looked,” Thompson said of the gelding’s blistering finish. “I was confident he would let rip when it was time to go. He was super. He’s handled by a master in John Size. He’s versatile. He’s a lovely horse.” Size, who saddled Fay Fay (2012), Luger (2015) and Ping Hai Star (2018) to BMW Hong Kong Derby victory, said: “He (Bundle Award) did very well. He seems to settle and relax and didn’t seem to waste any energy. He had plenty of resources left for the finish.” Fifth behind Sky Heart over 1600m after drawing barrier one at his previous start, Bundle Award – who won three times in Australia for Jason & Allan Williams as Prince Prawn – appreciated being dropped to the tail of the field today before Thompson drove the gelding out to the middle of the track and unleashed a devastating sprint. “You couldn’t compare the two days (today and last start). I think that he drew well last start – he drew gate one. Maybe that was no help to him. Anyway, today he showed us what he wanted,” Size said. The BMW Hong Kong Derby field selection will be announced on Friday (14 March) with the field likely to be headed Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m) winner Rubylot and Hong Kong Classic Mile victor (1600m) and My Wish. The 76-rating Markwin – a two-time winner in Hong Kong – also boosted claims of a possible BMW Hong Kong Derby berth a length and a quarter behind Bundle Award. Bundle Award’s success continued a see-sawing battle for the Hong Kong trainers’ championship, shunting Size back into the lead after David Hayes had snatched back the ascendancy with first-starter Akashvani’s win under Lyle Hewitson in the first section of the Class 4 Lung Kong Handicap (1200m). Size and Hayes both have 37 wins but 12-time champion trainer Size has more second placings. “He (Akashvani) did a good job from a wide gate (barrier 12) and my sons (Ben, Will & JD) educated him very well from Lindsay Park (in Australia). He came in and I just had to get him here,” Hayes said. “He’s actually got a low head carriage action like Rubylot. He reminds me of a young Rubylot, so let’s hope he ends up as good as Rubylot – not saying he will be, but his action is very similar to Rubylot.” Hewitson also partnered Mark Newnham’s Armour War Eagle to victory in the Class 3 South Wall Handicap (1400m). A dual winner in New Zealand, the War Decree gelding had racked up five minor placings in 12 starts before today’s breakthrough. Apprentice Britney Wong moved to the top of the Hong Kong jockeys’ All Weather Track standings with a double, striking aboard on Natural High for David Hall in the Class 4 Nga Tsin Wai Handicap (1200m, dirt) and Manfred Man’s Self Improvement in the Class 3 Sa Po Handicap (1200m, dirt). With 12 wins in total in her first season, Wong has notched seven of those victories on dirt to lead Luke Ferraris (five) in her first season in Hong Kong after riding 50 winners in Australia. “It’s great. I had two doubles when I was in Australia but they were both non-TAB meetings, so this feels fantastic,” Wong, 25, said. “Whether it’s turf or dirt, I’ll go for it and it’s good that I have one (surface) that works in a particular way, so I’m very happy.” Man also posted a double when Super Seth three-year-old Patch Of Cosmo won the Class 3 Tak Ku Ling Handicap (1600m), downing Embraces and BMW Hong Kong Derby hopeful Light Years Charm. Luke Ferraris slotted his 30th winner of the season and maintained his perfect record on Lucky With You when the consistent seven-year-old overpowered his rivals in the Class 1 Kowloon City Handicap (1200m) for Frankie Lor. “He’s a lovely horse, obviously when he gets up to Group 1 level, it’s a bit tough for him but he’s definitely a Class 1 horse,” Ferraris said. “He was in great shape today, Frankie had him going good and it was a very easy win. “I sat back on him, pulled him out at the 400m and coasted up to them at the furlong (200m), let him go and put them to bed.” David Eustace scored with Regency Happy Star under Alexis Badel in the Class 5 Junction Handicap (1400m) before Chris So combined with Keith Yeung to win the second section of the Class 4 Lung Kong Handicap (1200m) with three-year-old Mount Everest. The Exceed And Excel debutant lunged to claim first-start victory over Patch Of Time before Caspar Fownes-trained Flying Luck notched his second win of the campaign with a withering finish for Brenton Avdulla to land the Class 4 Nam Kok Handicap (1600m). Yeung completed a double when The Auspicious clinched the Class 4 Lok Sin Tong Cup Handicap (1400m) at odds of 131/1 to give Me Tsui his ninth win of the season. Hong Kong racing continues at Happy Valley on Wednesday night (12 March). By Leo Schlink

Video Stars Race 2 No 4 AUTUMN VIBES He was unlucky not to win on debut, as a slow start severely hampered his chances, leaving him well off the pace. Despite this, he unleashed a strong turn of foot in the straight to finish third, falling just 1.25 lengths short. Since then, he has trialled well and now finds himself ideally placed in a below-par Class 4 field. With a clean getaway, the three-year-old looks primed to break through. Race 10 No 5 WINNING DRAGON It is puzzling that he continues to be overlooked by the market, regardless of class. Last start, he defied his rating to finish fourth in a Group 1 feature, backing up a close second in a Group 3 two runs ago. Dropping to Class 2 is a significant advantage this week, and if he maintains his recent form, he should prove highly competitive. Sectional Stars Race 1 No 8 GANGNAM STAR His recent underperformance can be largely attributed to drawing poor gates. However, his fast-finishing eighth last time out indicates that he is on the right track to regaining his form. With a better draw this week, he could sneak into the placings at odds. Race 4 No 5 LUCKY SAM GOR Having shown promise in both starts, he closed strongly for fourth over 1400m two weeks ago, finishing three lengths behind the talented SKY JEWELLERY. Stepping up to a mile this week, he should be even better suited, and with a genuine pace, he is expected to make his presence felt.

Caspar Fownes is optimistic Sky Heart and Lo Rider can bolster stable hopes of landing a third HK$26 million BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) when the pair contests the HK$3.12 million Class 2 Carpenter Handicap (1800m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (9 March). Sky Heart and Lo Rider are among a group of four-year-olds – along with Cambridge, Markwin and Bundle Award – taking on older opposition this weekend in the search of a ratings boost as they attempt to gain a start in the BMW Hong Kong Derby on 23 March. Cambridge, Markwin and Sky Heart are all rated 76, while Bundle Award and Lo Rider are a point lower on 75 and victory or placings against a field headed by Group 3 winners Helene Feeling and Encountered could trigger vital progress in the handicap. Four-time Hong Kong champion trainer Fownes has twice savoured Hong Kong Derby glory with Super Satin (2010) and Sky Darci (2021) and hopes Sky Heart and Lo Rider can edge closer to earning starts in the Classic. “Both horses are there, presenting very well. We won’t have many excuses, they’re both in good form and even though it’s Class 2, I’m sure they’re going to be performing with a bit of credibility. They’re both in good nick and it’s going to be fun,” Fownes said. Lyle Hewitson will ride Sky Heart (115lb) and start from barrier seven, while Karis Teetan will partner Lo Rider (115lb) from gate five. “Lo Rider ran enormously the other day, but I thought the track was pretty hard. If we get a normal track, he would be better on it,” Fownes said of the Harzand gelding, who won an 1800m three-year-old handicap carrying 135lb in Ireland when known as Sharinay, and who finished second last-start to Steps Ahead at Sha Tin. “The same with Sky Heart. He’s stepping up to 1800 (metres) for the first time, so it’s going to be quite interesting to see what he can do. He was quite impressive, I thought, the other day when that horse came to beat him, he stuck his neck out while giving away a lot of weight. “I think we’re looking forward to the weekend and I think they’ll acquit themselves very well.” Pierre Ng concedes time is against Cambridge but the young trainer hopes the former Irish galloper can regain his best form under Angus Chung this weekend. Formerly trained by Aidan O’Brien, Cambridge ran second in the G3 Eyrefield Stakes (1800m) at Leopardstown in 2023 but has yet to fire in two Hong Kong runs, finishing 12th and ninth. “His form hasn’t come ideally on time for us. His last run was still a little bit weak at the end, so we’re backing him up and hopefully he can get some points to get into the Derby,” Ng said. “We know he can run a long distance but still he might need some time to wake him up to acclimatise to Hong Kong. I just want him to have an easier run where he can pick up in the straight and have a good run. He’s definitely a quality horse, but he just needs time.” The Class 3 Tak Ku Ling Handicap (1600m) is also critical to the aspirations of the connections of Light Years Charm and Liveandletlive, who could also boost their chances of running in the BMW Hong Kong Derby this month with strong performances. Trained by David Eustace, Light Years Charm is rated 75 and will carry 130lb this Sunday under Hugh Bowman, while Liveandletlive is on a mark of 66 and will be partnered by Chung from barrier three. One of Sunday’s features for established horses is the Class 1 Kowloon City Handicap (1200m) which is headed by G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m) winner Invincible Sage (135lb), Lucky With You (134lb), Magic Control (133lb), Mugen (133lb), Taj Dragon (130lb), Copartner Prance (129lb), Drombeg Banner (122lb) and Whizz Kid (115lb). Sha Tin’s 11-race card on Sunday (9 March) starts with the Class 5 Junction Handicap (1400m) at 12.30pm. By Leo Schlink

Trent Busuttin has developed an affinity for winning Derbies and he’d love nothing more than to add the G1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) to his collection with Thedoctoroflove at Ellerslie on Saturday (8 March). The New Zealand Derby has special significance for Busuttin and his co-trainer and partner Natalie Young as both hail from New Zealand and are now domiciled in Australia, where they train from Cranbourne in Victoria. They will be attempting to become the first Australian-based trainers to win the New Zealand Derby. The couple decided to send Thedoctoroflove to New Zealand for the Derby after he won at Flemington on 11 January over 2000m. He then finished sixth in a Benchmark 78 at Sandown behind older horses before he headed to New Zealand where he won the G2 Avondale Guineas (2100m) on 22 February at Ellerslie. Busuttin said there was something special in preparing horses to win a Derby and it was something he had inherited from his father Paddy, who trained Castletown to win the 1989 New Zealand Derby. “We like the Derbies,” Busuttin said. “In addition to the New Zealand Derby, Dad won the Macau Derby and the Singapore Derby. We’ve won a Victoria Derby and an Australian Derby and it would be great to add another one.” Trent Busuttin finished second in the 2017 edition of the New Zealand Derby with Rising Red who was beaten by Gingernuts. Busuttin said the son of So You Think had continued to work well under the supervision of their travelling foreman Brendan Hawtin. “He’s equal favourite for the race. He’s drawn 12 out of 16 which isn’t ideal but it could be worse,” Busuttin said. Melbourne jockey Daniel Moor, who rode Thedoctoroflove in the Avondale Guineas, will again ride him. Moor was impressed by Thedoctoroflove’s win last month but he said he will be better for the experience as it was his first run the right-handed way of going. “He showed me he could race closer, which is very handy, as he began so well but didn’t really go right-handed,” Moor said. “Around every bend he was all over the place. He took a bit of riding and will benefit from that experience. “He is a pretty cool customer although he was a little on edge, but he raced forward and was impressive at the end.” The Avondale Guineas has proven to be a great form reference for the New Zealand Derby with seven of its past 13 winners completing the double at their next starts. The horses which have completed this feat are Orchestral (2024), Rocket Spade (2021), Gingernuts (2017), Rangipo (2016), Mongolian Khan (2015), Puccini (2014) and Silent Achiever (2012). The raiders certainly won’t have it all their own way with plenty of opposition expected from the locals, headed by Shaune Ritchie and Colm Murray trained-Tuxedo, who comes off a last start victory in the G2 Waikato Guineas (2000m). It’s not the traditional lead-up to the Derby. “It’s getting harder to find the negatives around him, I suppose if you’re being picky then the traditional lead-up would have been the Avondale Guineas,” Ritchie said. “We felt he was fit enough and didn’t need it, and I gave John Bary a call and he did the same thing with Jimmy Choux (2011 winner). “It’s not like it’s not doable, I understand it’s against normal things, but we felt he didn’t need another run on a hard track at Ellerslie two weeks before the Derby when he’d already excelled in the Waikato Guineas.” Ritchie said he believes Tuxedo has the best turn of foot in the race, but is stepping up to 2400m for the first time and admit it’s always a query. He said Thedoctoroflove and the highly fancied Bourbon Proof would almost certainly run out the 2400m.

Already a multiple Group 1 winner, Godolphin’s powerhouse colt Broadsiding is aiming to add another prestigious title to his collection in the Group 1 Randwick Guineas this Saturday. With James McDonald in the saddle, he is poised to start as the favourite at Sydney’s iconic racing headquarters, though a strong field of contenders will be aiming to stop him in his tracks. Leading the charge against Broadsiding is Swiftfalcon, trained by Team Hawkes and ridden by Tyler Schiller. Swiftfalcon finished a strong second behind Broadsiding first-up but is expected to be even more dangerous with the rise in distance to the mile, a trip that should suit him perfectly. Another serious contender is the Chris Waller-trained filly Aeliana, who comes out of the same lead-up race as Broadsiding and Swiftfalcon. Although she finished third on that occasion, Aeliana hit the line with impressive speed, clocking some of the day’s fastest sectionals. If she can repeat that late charge, she will be a major threat come race time.

Track Two will be in operation for Races 1-4 while Races 5-11 will be contested on Course A6. HANDSOME JOYFUL is a fast beginner and is a chance to finally deliver a win in Malaysia and quickly atone for his last start defeat by a head over 1150m. ROAD OF TIGER also has barrier speed and can bounce back after casting a plate on February 16. TAKHI trialed well behind Ipoh winner Angel Baby recently and despite the draw, is well weighted on the 52kg. Race 1 Selections: 1 – 2 – 9 – 4 OUTFIT was never in danger when scoring this track and trip a fortnight ago and can repeat the dose. BIONICS is coming off successive Ipoh wins and the Trips D Stable / Wayne Lim combination are churning out good results this year. EMPHATIC indicated he is nearing a Class 5 win finishing 0.5L behind BIONICS at Ipoh. MR BIG BROTHER resumes for the new stable. Race 2 Selections: 4 – 1 – 3 – 5 OUR SECRET WEAPON is racing consistently and was a fraction unlucky when tightened last start but is a reliable beginner with best form over the sprint trips. OLIVER KHAN can mix his form but is a two-time winner at the track and distance, including a dead heat win in January. SHOW ALL SIXTY-ONE enters Sunday’s contest with good Singapore form lines and his impressive trial win here suggests he will attract market support. DRAGON CAVALLO was a beaten favourite last time but dropping back to the “B” division at this level should enhance his chances with the stable starting to fire up again. Race 3 Selections: 7 – 9 – 1 – 2 V’INVINCIBLE resumes with a fair trial under his belt but his first up record is good which keeps him under notice. PACIFIC ANGEL continues to race well with a neck defeat at her past two starts and the on pacer can strike back anytime. PRINCE LONHRO received no pressure when leading throughout to score in Class 5 by just under six lengths and was placed at Class 4 in December. THUNDER STAR has won twice from four local runs and is well weighted. Race 4 Selections: 5 – 6 – 7 – 12 SACRED SKY has been more reliable at the start when delivering successive wins and that winning streak can continue. LIM’S BESTBREAKER turned in his best local performance so far with a fast-finishing 2nd behind over the mile. SUPER BOWL is coming off a string of minor placings and will strip fitter following his 2nd behind SACRED SKY three weeks back. WEALTHYNESS can be vulnerable if early pressure is applied and needs to lead. His early pace is a great asset and both local wins have been comfortable. Race 5 Selections: 2 – 1 – 8 – 4 Progressive 3yo, DUMA has been defeated a neck his past two runs and can easily strike back third-up this campaign. CHEVAL PEGASUS is coming off a Restricted Maiden win but has a quick turn of foot and is capable of winning immediately in this grade. KSATRIA has sprinted home well when placed his last two starts and is on the eight-day backup. NIMBUS STAR trialed well and is a chance at its local debut. Race 6 Selections: 4 – 11 – 6 – 7 SACRED COMMAND is a former Class 2 galloper and can follow up on his 1600m victory on his Malaysian debut. PACIFIC WARRIOR is due to break through and was a heavily backed favorite when finishing runner up here last Saturday. SO WE FIGHT is the likely leader and will give then something to chase over the mile. DON’T FORGET BOSS is only a moderate beginner but his final sectionals have been quick at all three local starts. Race 7 Selections: 2 – 1 – 3 – 5 GULF EAGLE was a first up winner for his last preparation and the trend can continue judging by his trial run on Tuesday. ONG MARI will be suited by the distance drop after winning twice over 1400m in January. PACIFIC ATLANTIC over raced and was beaten a head after leading and should be given another chance. DAYLIGHT was suited by a fast tempo when scoring last start but is yet to win over this journey. Race 8 Selections: 6 – 4 – 10 – 5 INFINITY VICTORY placed seven times in Australia and his recent 2nd in a 1400m Open Novice on local debut suggests he will be one of the market leaders. SPICY BABE received every chance on her Malaysian debut and her barrier speed places her in good stead. FRIEND OF HONOUR is coming off a Class 4 run and is expected to improve while LUCKY WARRIOR has attracted market support in the past and was runner up in a maiden two starts back. Race 9 Selections: 2 – 10 – 4 – 9 SMART LIKE JASON is suited by the distance rise and will be fitter second up. SCHNEIDER is capable of going back-to-back despite the wide gate. RED SUN will break the maiden tag soon and finished on nicely in a trial on Tuesday. LIM’S FUJI is rarely far off the mark and is one for the trifectas. Race 10 Selections: 6 – 8 – 10 – 4 In a low-grade contest SHIHAB had no luck caught wide last start and can quickly atone. SABAH WIN has been coming from wide barriers recently and looks a chance from pole position. BIG DAY has descended in the ratings and is worth watching first up while BEHIND PLAYER ran on well last start and is worth considering despite the wide gate. Race 11 Selections: 2 – 3 – 8 – 1