Hong Kong's city racecourse, Happy Valley, is set to host its first meeting of 2026 this Wednesday, featuring a competitive nine-race card commencing at 10.40am. The action promises a pivotal moment for trainer Caspar Fownes and local jockey Vincent Ho, both aiming to reignite their seasons at a favoured venue.
King of the Valley Seeks a Royal Return
The self-styled 'King of the Valley', Caspar Fownes, will be eager to reclaim the spotlight after a quiet festive period. The former four-time champion trainer led the standings before Christmas but now sits one winner behind Mark Newnham, who has 27. Fownes's recent three meetings at Sha Tin yielded no winners, making a strong showing at Happy Valley crucial.
His record at the city track offers significant cause for optimism. Eighteen of his 26 winners this season have come at Happy Valley, where he boasts a formidable 33% win-and-place strike rate. He sends six runners to the meeting, with high expectations for several to reach the winner's enclosure.
Vincent Ho Hopes to End Losing Streak
Jockey Vincent Ho has endured a challenging spell, currently on a run of 42 rides without a victory. However, with 15 winners already this term, his talent is undeniable, and a change of fortune seems imminent. His partnership with Fownes could be key to breaking the sequence, with two prime rides on the card.
First, he teams up with Love Together in the Chater Handicap (1.45pm) over five furlongs. This well-handicapped son of Capitalist, drawn in gate two, was badly hampered at the start last time out. A strong runner-up finish on just his second career start confirms his ability, making him a leading contender.
Perfect General Poised for Quick-Fire Double
Ho's second major chance comes aboard Perfect General in the Connaught Handicap (2.15pm) over six furlongs. The pair combined for success two starts ago. After a creditable effort from a wide draw in Class Three last time, the five-year-old now benefits from an inside gate (two), which should allow a more prominent position. My Day My Way, who runs in the same race with a first-time tongue-tie, is also noted for an improved performance.
The Fownes stable also harbours strong hopes for Corleone in the Des Voeux Handicap (2.50pm) over the extended mile. Chasing a hat-trick, he is significantly better off at the weights, has top jockey Maxime Guyon onboard, and a good draw. He faces stiff competition from Loch Tay, King Lotus, and Romantic Laos in what looks a fiercely contested event.
Wednesday's Key Pointers at Happy Valley
Love Together – 1.45pm – A huge chance to atone for last month's misfortune from a perfect draw.
Perfect General – 2.15pm – Reunited with winning jockey Vincent Ho and drawn perfectly for a front-running show.
