Friday 06 February 2026 2:41 pm
Water to Flow to Smooth Sha Tin Success Under Atzeni
By: Wally Pyrah
Andrea Atzeni, fresh from a victory at Happy Valley on Wednesday, is set to ride the John Size-trained Flow Water Flow in the Yau Oi Handicap (9.50am) over nine furlongs at Sha Tin. This race could be a pivotal moment for several contenders vying for a spot in the upcoming Hong Kong Derby.
Dazzling Fit's Last Chance Saloon
The David Eustace-trained Dazzling Fit, a son of Ribchester, was once a top pick for BMW Hong Kong Derby contenders before the season began. However, despite a notable win over Beauty Bolt in November, recent disappointing performances have left him in a precarious position. With insufficient rating points to qualify for the Four-Year-Old Classic Cup next month, he needs an impressive victory here to secure a Derby berth.
The stable has enlisted champion jockey Zac Purton, who is actively seeking a Derby ride, to maximise Dazzling Fit's potential. This move underscores the horse's talent and should not be overlooked by punters.
Other Contenders in the Mix
Competition is fierce, with horses like Pope Cody and the progressive Aerodynamics also aware that a win could propel them into the Classic Series field. Each brings unique strengths to the race, adding depth to an already competitive lineup.
Flow Water Flow: The Dark Horse
At the bottom of the handicap, Flow Water Flow emerges as a standout contender. Trained by John Size, this galloper secured his first victory at his fourth attempt last month, showcasing a powerful finish over a mile. While that form alone might not suffice in this tougher contest, several factors suggest he is poised for improvement.
- Increased experience from recent runs.
- A step up in distance to nine furlongs, which could suit his stamina.
- The booking of Andrea Atzeni, who has a strong track record with the Size stable.
These elements combine to indicate that Flow Water Flow is likely undervalued at his current handicap mark, making him a compelling choice for bettors.
Juneau Pride's Opportunity
Earlier on the card, the John Size stable could strike with Juneau Pride in the Yan Tin Handicap (9.15am) over seven furlongs. This ultra-consistent course and distance specialist has been hindered by poor draws throughout the season but finally benefits from a favourable gate four. Despite carrying top-weight, a trouble-free journey could see him outclass his rivals.
Race Pointers
- Juneau Pride – 9.15am at Sha Tin
- Flow Water Flow – 9.50am at Sha Tin