Racegoers in Hong Kong will usher in the New Year with an 11-race spectacle at Sha Tin on Thursday, 1st January 2026, clutching their 'Lucky Start 2026' merchandise and hoping for a prosperous beginning. The day's feature, the Group Three Chinese Club Challenge Cup, promises a thrilling and competitive start to the calendar.
A Stern Test for the New Year
The prestigious handicap, run over seven furlongs for a purse of £400,000 (3.05am UK time), presents a formidable puzzle for punters and form analysts alike. With a full field of a dozen runners, many possess credible claims on their best day, indicating that fortune may play a pivotal role in finding the winner.
Historical trends offer an immediate clue: eight of the last ten winners carried 121 pounds or less. This statistic places the higher-weighted contenders, including Tomodachi Kokoroe, Patch Of Theta, Packing Hermod, and Light Years Charm, at a distinct disadvantage, suggesting they will need to produce a career-best effort to triumph.
Leading Contenders for the Feature Race
The spotlight falls on three progressive horses towards the lower end of the handicap, whose light weights could prove decisive in the final furlong. Aeris Nova, trained by Cody Mo, broke his seasonal maiden over this course and distance last month, finally capitalising after several near misses by defeating the useful Drombeg Banner.
Drawn in gate four, he is expected to adopt a more prominent racing position under jockey Derek Leung, who will carry a two-pound overweight, setting him up to unleash his potent finishing speed. However, he must concede three pounds to his main rival, the back-to-form Sky Trust.
This five-time Sha Tin winner, prepared by the in-form trainer Caspar Fownes, was visually stunning when accelerating clear of smart rivals over six furlongs last month. A dual winner over this course and distance, he will be partnered by top jockey Matthew Chadwick and will be exceptionally difficult to hold back once they enter the home straight.
An Eye-Catching Outsider
For those seeking value at bigger odds, Storm Rider warrants close inspection. His recent preparatory trials have been highly encouraging, and as a previous winner over the seven-furlong trip, he possesses the ability to outrun his odds. His chance, however, is contingent on receiving a clear passage during the race.
Race Pointer: Sky Trust is the selection to get 2026 off to a winning start in the 8.05am feature at Sha Tin.
