Racing enthusiasts in Hong Kong are set for an exciting midweek fixture as the action returns to the iconic Happy Valley racecourse this Wednesday. A nine-race programme is scheduled, headlined by the Class Three Consensus Cup at 1.15pm, contested over the extended mile distance.
Favourite Backers Face Tough Challenge
Recent form has proven challenging for those backing favourites, with just six market-leaders winning from thirty-one races since the start of the month. Numerous short-priced favourites have been defeated, indicating a competitive landscape. Despite this trend, the Mark Newnham-trained gelding Max Que, ridden by champion jockey Zac Purton, is anticipated to start as a short-priced favourite in the main event. He secured a comfortable victory over the course and distance a month ago but now carries an additional twelve pounds, requiring further progression against seasoned rivals.
Key Contenders in the Consensus Cup
The race features several experienced course specialists, including Flying Fortress, the seven-time course and distance winner Telecom Fighters, A Americ Te Specso, Outgate, and Fantastic Fun. All have demonstrated winning form over this track and trip, promising a fiercely contested affair.
Withallmyfaith: An Each-Way Opportunity
One horse attracting significant attention from the lower end of the handicap is the David Hayes-trained Withallmyfaith. Known for his exceptional early speed from the gates, he is expected to secure a favourable position behind the pacesetters. The five-year-old has produced his best performances over the Sha Tin mile, notably finishing strongly behind smart competitors like Dazzling Fit and Flying Luck in recent handicaps.
Having shown capability when beaten three lengths by Excellence Value over nine furlongs at Happy Valley in October, he should handle the track confidently. Reports from track-watchers suggest he appears bigger and stronger since the season commenced. With the skilled jockey Keith Yeung renewing their partnership, Withallmyfaith offers excellent each-way value in the Consensus Cup.
Jockey Form: Atzeni and McMonagle Shine
The past month has seen jockeys Andrea Atzeni and Irish Champion Dylan Browne McMonagle in outstanding form. Both riders have delivered powerful, strong finishes, impressing spectators and connections alike. They are certainly worth monitoring at Happy Valley, with Atzeni holding a notable booking aboard Giant Leap in the Sheung Hei Handicap at 1.45pm over six furlongs.
Giant Leap: A Strategic Drop in Class
Giant Leap, sired by Capitalist, drops down in class following a fruitless campaign this season. However, he reunites with Atzeni for the first time since their victory over the course and distance last April, albeit from a four-pound higher mark. A three-time winner over this distance against similar company, he appears to have been targeted specifically for this race. His wide draw may be mitigated by his blistering early speed from the gates, making him a compelling contender.
Wednesday's Pointers at Happy Valley
- Withallmyfaith each-way – 1.15pm Consensus Cup
- Giant Leap – 1.45pm Sheung Hei Handicap
With competitive fields and in-form jockeys, Wednesday's meeting at Happy Valley promises thrilling racing action for fans and punters alike.
