Dynamic Duo Aim for Happy Valley Success
The formidable partnership of trainer David Hayes and jockey Zac Purton, boasting a staggering 33%-win strike-rate this season, sets its sights on adding to that impressive tally at Happy Valley on Wednesday. The pair will be teaming up with two key gallopers, with Chateauneuf appearing to hold a particularly strong chance of victory.
Chateauneuf: The One to Watch in the Fife Handicap
All eyes will be on the five-year-old Chateauneuf in the Fife Handicap at 1.45pm over six furlongs. Although he has appeared to need his two runs this season, he is now expected to be in prime condition. A significant advantage comes from his ideal draw in gate one, a position from which he has an outstanding record of two wins and a second from just three starts.
Further positives include the reapplication of blinkers, equipment he has previously won with. The key change, however, is the return of Zac Purton to the saddle for the first time in ten months. Purton has already steered Chateauneuf to victory in the past, and the gelding's commanding win over recent winner King Miles in May adds considerable weight to his chances.
Excellence Value Faces Tricky Draw in Hing Yip Handicap
Later on the card, Purton will need to utilise all of his skill to overcome a difficult outside draw in gate 11 when he reunites with Excellence Value in the Hing Yip Handicap at 2.15pm over nine furlongs. The form book suggests he faces a tough task confirming placings with rivals Wrote A New Page and Charity Gain, based on their last outing. Despite this, Excellence Value is clearly in excellent form and remains a live contender to find the winner's circle once again.
While stablemate Soleil Fighter will also have his supporters in the Shing Yip Handicap, it is the combination of Hayes, Purton, and the well-drawn Chateauneuf that presents the most compelling case for success at the city track.
