Former UK Galloper Seeks Happy Valley Redemption
A fascinating contender lines up in the first division of the Tai Tam Handicap at Happy Valley on Wednesday, as the Pierre Ng-trained Victor The Rapid attempts to bounce back to winning ways. The five-year-old, who will be partnered by elite French jockey Maxime Guyon, is hoping to recapture the spark that saw him successful as a two-year-old in the UK at Chelmsford.
A Golden Opportunity in Class Four
Since relocating to Hong Kong, Victor The Rapid's form has been mixed, but there are compelling reasons for optimism this time around. The gelding demonstrated his clear ability over the course and distance last July, winning decisively against similar company. He followed that up with a strong third-place finish behind the useful Regal Gem and Storming Dragon, competing off level weights.
However, a 12-pound ratings rise after those performances made life difficult against tougher opposition. Now, dropped back into a Class Four contest, he finds himself in a much more favourable position. The timing could be perfect, as trainer Pierre Ng's yard has recently returned to form, securing a winner at Sha Tin just this past Sunday.
French Flair in the Saddle
Adding considerable intrigue to the runner's chances is the booking of rider Maxime Guyon. The 36-year-old four-time French champion jockey is a major talent with a proven track record in Hong Kong. He holds a contract to ride in the city until early March and boasts significant big-race success there, including a victory in the Hong Kong Derby and two wins in the prestigious Group One LONGINES Hong Kong Vase.
Despite drawing gate eight, which may seem tricky, Victor The Rapid's running style suits a patient, hold-up ride. If Guyon can tuck him in at the back and find a clear passage, the pair could prove too powerful for their rivals when the jockey asks for maximum effort down the home straight in the 1.10pm race.
The stage is set for a potential resurgence. With a top-class jockey booked, a forgiving handicap mark, and a stable back in the winner's circle, Victor The Rapid has every chance to secure only his second Hong Kong victory.
