As Hong Kong racing prepares for a thrilling nine-race programme at Happy Valley on Wednesday, all eyes are on trainer John Size, whose stable is gaining momentum and appears primed for success. The highlight of the day is the £270,000 Class Two Daisy Handicap, scheduled for 1.45pm, where Size's contenders could make a significant impact.
Size's Resurgence in the Trainers' Championship
While Caspar Fownes currently leads the Trainers' Championship with a five-win advantage after a recent treble, John Size is steadily climbing the ranks. After a slow start to the season, Size has found his rhythm, securing a double at Sha Tin on Sunday and now sitting sixth on the leaderboard with 31 victories. His strategic approach and select team of gallopers heading to Happy Valley suggest he is ready to add more wins to his tally.
Key Contenders in Focus
Size's small but potent squad includes YOUNG CHAMPION in the Daisy Handicap and MASTEROFMYUNIVERSE in the Hydrangea Handicap at 2.15pm over six furlongs. Both horses have faced criticism in the past but now have a golden opportunity to reward their loyal supporters.
Young Champion, once considered a Four-Year-Old Classic Series contender after two early wins, has struggled to maintain that form, adding only one more victory despite six placements. However, racing off a 13-pound lower mark than last June and having recently dropped back to six furlongs, he has shown renewed promise with narrow defeats to strong competitors like Invincible Shield and Beauty Waves. With a middle draw and a clean run, he could upset more fancied rivals.
Masterofmyuniverse, despite a successful campaign with four wins last season, has disappointed recently. Now back in Class Three, where he previously won three times, and racing from a four-pound lower mark, he is well-positioned for a comeback. A predicted fast pace at Happy Valley should suit his strong finishing style, making him a serious threat.
Additional Hopeful for Size
Don't overlook WIN BEAUTY VIVA in the Snapdragon Handicap at 2.50pm over the extended mile. Equipped with blinkers for the first time after an impressive trial victory and drawn favorably from stall two, this well-handicapped galloper could cap off a successful day for the Size stable.
As the action unfolds at Happy Valley, John Size's carefully selected runners offer compelling prospects for victory, potentially shaking up the trainers' standings and delighting racing enthusiasts.
