Midweek Thrills Return to Happy Valley
After the weekend's spectacular dress rehearsal at Sha Tin for the LONGINES Hong Kong International Races, the racing spotlight shifts back to the iconic Happy Valley for a compelling nine-race midweek programme. The action culminates with the feature race, the St Andrew's Challenge Quaich, a competitive nine-furlong handicap scheduled for 12.40pm.
Hong Kong's International Prospects Strengthen
The weekend's performances at Sha Tin have significantly boosted the prospects of local contenders for the prestigious December 14th international meeting. The world's premier sprinter, Ka Ying Rising, delivered another demolition job, making the LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint look a mere formality. Meanwhile, the phenomenal Romantic Warrior defied a 232-day absence to blow away his opposition, firmly establishing himself as the one to beat for the LONGINES Hong Kong Cup. For the more open LONGINES Hong Kong VaseJohn Size-trained Bundle Award is one to note, having recorded a closing sectional time faster than Romantic Warrior on Sunday.
Valley Winners: Key Contenders for Wednesday
Focusing on the immediate action, all signs point towards a big run from the Me Tsui-trained EVERSTAR. This runner bounced back to form with an encouraging close fourth from a wide gate over the course and distance a fortnight ago. Now, with a favourable draw in gate four for the Brig O' Doon Handicap (12.10pm) over six furlongs, and jockey Jimmy Orman aboard, he is poised for a perfect trip and looks exceptionally hard to beat.
The main event, the St Andrew's Challenge Quaich (12.40pm), presents a tight and highly competitive contest where luck in running will be crucial. Zac Purton's decision to stick with recent winner Supreme Agility signals strong confidence. Meanwhile, Can't Go Wong will be seeking compensation after a heartbreaking narrow defeat last time out, and the well-handicapped China Win remains a threat despite a challenging outside draw.
Later on the card, the Glen Ogle Viaduct Handicap (2.15pm) over the extended mile offers A AMERIC TE SPECSO a prime opportunity to secure a long-awaited victory. After being hampered by a series of awkward draws, the two-time winner from last season finds himself in a much better position in gate six. Regular rider Andrea Atzeni should be able to utilise his mount's potent finishing kick to full effect in the closing stages.
Today's Pointers:
- Everstar – 12.10pm, Happy Valley
- A Americ Te Specso – 2.15pm, Happy Valley
