HAPPY VALLEY 29 APRIL 2020

Another nice card ahead of us on Wed. Looks like Vincent HO might ride the Jackpot.
Interesting runners with solid trial booked on Teetan, Super Commander ( Fearless Warrior) and Super Dornbin (Twilight Moon) both South African PPs.

www.hkjc.com/english/racing/startersR1_e.asp

puntcdn.s3.amazonaws.com/form-guides/202...py_valley_175364.pdf

Lets wait for final declarations tmrw

www.irace.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/2020...-Guide-April-291.pdf

By: Declan Schuster


Race 1: #7 Good Days, #4 Gala Night, #6 Exaltation, #1 Giant Turtle
Race 2: #8 Aeroflash, #2 Victorious Seeker, #3 Enjoyable Success, #6 Bring It On
Race 3: #6 Everyone's Elite, #2 Happy Warrior, #1 Party Together, #10 Diamond Legend
Race 4: #2 First Responder, #3 Colonel, #7 Simply Fluke, #11 Lucky Missile
Race 5: #8 Travel Datuk, #10 The Show, #9 Victory Mastery, #5 Sky Show
Race 6: #4 Xiang Bai Qi, #6 Flash Famous, #10 Dynamic Eagle, #7 Green Reign
Race 7: #9 Diamond Brilliant, #5 Victoriam, #4 Beauty Amigo, #1 Shining Gem
Race 8: #9 Acclaimed Light, #3 Surrealism, #1 Cinquante Cinq, #11 Owners' Star
Race 9: #10 What A Legend, #5 Shouson, #1 Californiadeepshot, #4 Little Bird

Race 1: Tai Hang Handicap

#7 Good Days is looking to snap a streak of two runner-up efforts. He's racing well and from gate three he maps to get the right run for Zac Purton. #4 Gala Night has gone to a new level since switching to a forward-style of racing. He's the likely leader here and he could prove difficult to reel in. #6 Exaltation doesn't do much wrong. He's consistent enough to warrant respect. #1 Giant Turtle will relish the step back to Class 4. He can figure now against weaker company.

Race 2: Wan Chai Handicap

#8 Aeroflash appears to have found his feet, closing for a solid fourth last time out. He wears the blinkers for the second time which is key and if he can overcome the sticky draw, then he's a leading chance for Chad Schofield. #2 Victorious Seeker has been costly, narrowly placing in his last five runs. Still, he's consistent and the services of Joao Moreira once again will ensure he is a leading player. #3 Enjoyable Success's racing pattern is costly as he regularly finds himself well back in the field with far too much work to do, but still, he does have a bit of class about him and will be boxing on strongly. #6 Bring It On is next best off two competitive runs.

Race 3: Quarry Bay Handicap

#6 Everyone's Elite is looking to snap a run of six consecutive second-place efforts. He's in-form and has proven himself to be a talented youngster albeit without recording a win yet. Joao Moreira sticks aboard and yet again he rates as a leading player. #2 Happy Warrior does his best racing at the city circuit. He's placed in his last two outings and gets a favourable draw for Wednesday's test. #1 Party Together turned his form around last start stepping back to Class 4. He can challenge this bunch. #10 Diamond Legend is consistent. He's a winner already this term and with only 117lb on his back he gets in light.

Race 4: North Point Handicap (2nd Section)

#2 First Responder appears to have found a competitive mark. He closed nicely last start for a narrow fourth and with slight improvement off that run, he can break through. #3 Colonel has plenty of ability but is struggling to piece it all together. The awkward draw makes life difficult, but the services of Zac Purton once again help. #7 Simply Fluke won well last time out after snapping a run of two second-place efforts. He's flourishing for new trainer Douglas Whyte who clearly has this horse spot on. #11 Lucky Missile has shown ability. He gets in light and the inside gate will afford him every chance.

Race 5: North Point Handicap (1st Section)

#8 Travel Datuk is winless across 39 starts. Still, while him getting his nose in front has been a problem he does have 11 minor placings to his name, so if anything, he's at least consistent. Antoine Hamelin takes the reins here and if he runs his usual race, just maybe he can finally grab that elusive win. #10 The Show is a grand campaigner with seven wins from 74 starts to his name. He's honest and has won off this mark in Class 4 before, so, it wouldn't surprise to see him do it again. #9 Victory Mastery has shown ability across his short eight-start career. Joao Moreira retains the ride here and he's capable of rattling home. #5 Sky Show grabbed sixth on debut. He caught the eye in his latest trial and the booking of Zac Purton here bears close watching.

Race 6: Fortress Hill Handicap (1st Section)

#4 Xiang Bai Qi doesn't win out of turn but has been a consistent customer this term. He was close-up last start over this course and distance and again gets a favourable draw to showcase his best here. #6 Flash Famous has gone to a new level this term as a four-time course and distance winner. He still appears to have a number of rating points in hand and this contest is suitable. #10 Dynamic Eagle appeals down in the weight. He resumed nicely first-up this campaign and with that run under his belt further improvement can be expected here. #7 Green Reign is winless but has ability. He's running out of chance but if he does manage to put his best foot forward, then he is going to find himself in contention.

Race 7: Causeway Bay Handicap (2nd Section)

#9 Diamond Brilliant is unlucky not to already be a winner this term. He maps to get a nice run from gate two which should afford him every opportunity as an on-pace runner. #5 Victoriam won well last time out. He can back that win up with another as long as he can overcome the awkward ally. #4 Beauty Amigo is another who won well last start. The wide gate isn't ideal but now that he has pieced it together, he might be ready to do so again. #1 Shining Gem can box on from gate one. He'll need luck but if he gets it, then he's going to be taking the shortest route home.

Race 8: Fortress Hill Handicap (2nd Section)

#9 Acclaimed Light has mixed in this class before and is a winner at the city circuit already this campaign. The distance might be a touch short for him but he's drawn favourably and with a soft run throughout, he's capable of making it count. #3 Surrealism is racing well this season. He's still winless but with the right run he can figure in the finish, depending on how far back in the run he plans to settle. #1 Cinquante Cinq has ability and now finds himself at the top of Class 3 which is arguably won of the hardest spots to win. He gets a favourable draw but he might have just found his mark. #11 Owners' Star can figure with the right run from gate two.

Race 9: Causeway Bay Handicap (1st Section)

#10 What A Legend appeals as a two-time winner this campaign. He was beaten by the wide gate last time which saw him racing well out of his ground at the tail of the field. He gets a favourable draw this time and can position himself in the right spot for Chad Schofield. #5 Shouson has gone to a new level of late as a winner of three out of his last six runs. He's appeared to have held his condition well and this contest is more than suitable. #1 Californiadeepshot has hit the ground running since his arrival to Hong Kong four starts ago. He won well on debut and since then has been competitive. The wide gate makes life hard but he does get the services of Joao Moreira once again. #4 Little Bird is next best.

This is what success as a jockey looks like!

Luke Middlebrook – Racing returns to Happy Valley on Wednesday night for a nine-race card after an action-packed and dramatic Champions Day at Sha Tin on Sunday.

Happy Valley

The best bet is for Zac Purton to score aboard the Benn Yung-trained Cinquante Cinq in the Class 3 1650m in Race 8. Cinquante Cinq aims to put a luckless run behind him as race favourite at this track and distance 35 days ago.

After bidding for an inside run making the turn, Cinquante Cinq was chopped out and copped a nasty check at the 250m, becoming badly unbalanced thereafter and losing all momentum, eventually checking home 3 ¼ lengths astern.

I like that Cinquante Cinq has been freshened, trialled well in the meantime and Purton rides for the first time – hard to hold out on the “A” course.

Purton’s mount Jolly Honour in Race 6, a Class 3 1650m, could represent coms value, after finishing a visually disappointing ninth at his last start at this track and distance 14 days ago.

That particular race, however, was run at a dawdle, with the lead speed run at over six lengths slower than average to 800m but with the tempo increasing thereafter, thus a race with big mid-race exertion. Jolly Honour appeared to be unsuited by the race shape based on previous efforts where the early speed was lengths quicker, and this week’s race should be run at least true if not faster than average to suit his needs.

Track Spy
Video Replay Stars
Race 2 Number 12 VIRTUS STAR
Hasn’t had much luck with the barrier draw at his last two runs, which have been his first two starts for trainer Frankie Lor after a stable transfer from David Hall, but there’s been plenty to like about his performances.

Two back, he settled mid-field to worse, before dashing strongly home into second. Then, last start, he sat on speed in a fast run race, in which he returned figures of a constant five lengths above average through each early section, before fading late but sticking on the best, beaten 3 1/4 lengths. With a bit of luck in running, he is the one to beat.

Race 5 Number 2 LADY FIRST
Had his first start for trainer Tony Cruz at this track and distance two weeks ago, searching for his first local win after 27 starts, and there was plenty of merit to his fifth placing that night.

Dictated to by barrier 12 of 12, he was steadied early to obtain cover, and the race shape was one that suffered extremely slow early sectionals; the well-backed winner going over three lengths slower than average to the 400m, and over 7 1/2 lengths slower than average to the 400m – the epitome of a dash to the line. Lady First put in the run of the race from back in the field, defying the slow speed, and he has clearly taken benefit from a stable transfer.

Sectional Time Stars
Race 7 Number 7 WIND N GRASS
Stood the lead speed seven lengths at the 400m at this track and distance, but reduced that margin to 1 3/4 lengths across the line after flashing home the fastest in the race for a better-than-it-reads fifth. Can map handier to the speed and is an improving type nearing a win.

Race 9 Number 10 WHAT A LEGEND
Has his third start in Class 3 and both runs in the grade have been encouraging. Jumped from barrier 12 last start, was steadied early but powered home in the second fastest last 400m of the even in a race where most of the exertion occurred mid-race. Comes into barrier 5 and looks an each-way shout in an open race.

Luke Middlebrook’s Selections:
R1. 7-4-6-1
R2. 12-2-4-7
R3. 5-1-2-6
R4. 7-3-6-2
R5. 5-2-7-9
R6. 6-4-7-3
R7. 7-9-1-5
R8. 1-3-5-9
R9. 1-7-5-10

Betting Strategy:
R2 #12 Win
R5 #2 Each-Way
R8 #1 Win

Race-by-Race Previews
Race 1: Good Days good performance when storming home for a nice second last start. Placed twice at his last two starts now and with Purton jumping on, they look hard to hold out. Gala Night consistent form lately, drawn well in stall two and is a leading hope. Exaltation faded late last start, chance to improve under right race shape and Moreira takes the ride. Giant Turtle has ability in this grade and should not be underestimated. Crown Avenue ran the third fastest sectional time last start, place hope in an open race.

Race 2: Virtus Star video replay showed last run was very good after racing on pace in a fast race (read “Track Spy” for more information). Victorious Seeker nice horse who is a model of consistency – but still a maiden – and looks a chance. Gets every hope from barrier 2. Curling Luxury has ability and should not be underestimated in this grade. Will be on pace for a long while. Fortune Patrol flew home late last start and will likely be back in running again. Look for him late if pace is on. Enjoyable Success finished powerfully with fastest sectional time ranking last start and will be doing the same.

Race 3: Focus last start winner who retains good form and can run well again. It was a sectionally massive win but the type that often you don’t see them repeat. Party Together nice effort last start when finishing strongly and should be landing a Class 4 win soon enough. Happy Warrior improving recently and getting close to another win. Big plus that Purton takes over. Everyone’s Elite nice horse who is a model of consistency and looks a chance despite remaining a maiden. Moreira sticks with. Doctors Delight turned in a nice effort last run when finishing strongly.

Race 4: Simply Fluke changed stables recently and has improved based on his impressive last start win. An open race, but he’s hard to knock and Moreira does stick with him. Colonel faded late last start as the odds-on pop, chance to improve under right race shape and at this track and distance. Super Alliances every chance last start but still ran a good race, another leading chance. First Responder eased early before going on to make late ground, should be thereabouts and include in exotics. Resolute trialled very well in blinkers and could be a big improver here.

Race 5: Sky Show easy trial win recently and looks well. Was in the market on debut and looks to have come on leaps and bounds since. The one to beat. Lady First nice effort last start when finishing strongly (read “Track Spy” for more information). Wood On Fire has been placed last three starts, deserves a win soon, and he gets every chance from barrier 3 here. Victory Mastery finished powerfully with fastest sectional time ranking last start, improving type worth considering. Winner’s Heart poorly judged ride last start and can improve and surprise at odd.

Race 6: Flash Famous consistent form lately and can score here. Jumps from barrier 2 and should map and look the winner throughout. Xiang Bai Qi has been placed last two starts and deserves a win soon, nearing a win and will be thereabouts in the finish. Green Reign is an improving type who is nearing a win, can improve further at his second 1650m start. Smart Patch last run was better than it reads and do not dismiss. Previous form bodes well here. Jolly Honour go on the win two starts ago and give a chance here, had no luck off a slow run race last start.

Race 7: Wind N Grass flew home late last start and it had plenty of merit given the early speed (read “Track Spy” for more information). Diamond Brilliant showed good speed to lead last start and gave a good sight off an above average early speed. Jumps from stall 2, and is every hope from there. Shining Gem racing well with good sectional time rankings recently and is one of the leading hopes. Victoriam was an easy last start winner and must be respected, wide barrier looks tough for him. Young Legend well supported last start and won accordingly.

Race 8: Cinquante Cinq had genuine excuses last start when badly checked becoming badly unbalanced at the 250m. Consider again as his form is strong. Surrealism racing well with good sectional time rankings recently and is a live chance. Heavenly Thought a fast beginner who can run well if he finds an easy lead, however the wide barrier is of some concern. Acclaimed Light had excuses last start when racing wide without cover, can map well from a low draw and surprise in this field. Owners’ Star last two runs have suggested a win was very near and keep in mind.

Race 9: Californiadeepshot video replay showed last run was very good after he failed to muster early, before being swamped late. Open race but he’s hard to knock. Beauty Spark last start winner over Californiadeepshot who retains good form and can run well again. Shouson racing consistently of late, mixing his form with this lot, and expect another big run. What A Legend caught the eye flashing home late, nice effort (read “Track Spy” for more information). Good For You ran the second fastest sectional time in an efficient run race last start and could surprise here at the bottom of the weights.

oao Moreira is determined to improve his Happy Valley record, with only 28 of the Magic Man’s 107 winners this season coming at the city circuit.

APRIL 28, 2020
It’s hard to fault a man that leads the jockeys’ championship and is one of the best riders Hong Kong has ever seen, but even Joao Moreira admits his Happy Valley record needs work.

Only 28 of his 107 winners this season have come at the city circuit – with just one in his past four meetings there – and he’s striking at 14 per cent at the Valley compared to 23 per cent at Sha Tin.

It’s something that has been a trend for the Magic Man in recent seasons, with a five per cent higher strike rate at Sha Tin last season (20 to 15) and eight per cent in 2017-18 (23 to 15).

While Moreira leads arch-rival Zac Purton by three in the race for this season’s title, the Australian has 13 more Valley winners than the Brazilian – something he knows could be crucial to deciding the title.

“No doubt I am aware of it but I’m on top of it, don’t worry about that,” Moreira said. “If you look at the results of the races at Happy Valley lately, there has been a lot of outsiders winning.

“I don’t think the rides I have been getting there have been that bad but I have just been a bit unlucky in barriers and positioning. I’m working on it to try and improve, for sure.”

Moreira looks well-placed to increase his strike rate on Wednesday night, heading to the tight-turning track with a full book of nine rides boasting a host of winning chances.

Californiadeepshot gets another chance in Class Three in the Causeway Bay Handicap (1,200m) after running second last start and Moreira is confident Tony Cruz’s three-year-old can ring up his second win at start five.

“I was quite happy that he stayed in the class because he was very much there to go up,” Moreira said.

“When I looked at the ratings and they only gave him one point I was extremely happy. He is a very nice horse who still has plenty to improve on and he’s no doubt going to the races with a chance.”

Another in-form horse Moreira jumps on again is the Douglas Whyte-trained Simply Fluke, who provided the jockey with his most recent Valley winner on April 8.

After nine fruitless starts for Dennis Yip Chor-hong, Simply Fluke won at his first attempt for Whyte, with the victory also Moreira’s first race-day encounter with the horse.

The five-year-old saluted from barrier 12 last start but Moreira knows he will need luck to repeat the dose from the same gate in the second section of the Class Four North Point Handicap (1,200m).

“We all know the gates play a big role at Happy Valley and the best we can do at the moment having barrier 12 is just hope,” he said.

“Douglas has done a very good job with him, he has certainly improved the horse and I honestly think he is going to be able to improve him some more.”

Moreira also partners Flash Famous in the first section of the Class Three Fortress Hill Handicap (1,650m), a horse who has won four times this season.

Two of those wins came under Moreira, as well as a last-start second where the Magic Man initially tried to sneak up the fence in the straight before having to change course.

“I think it was a very good run. We were a little bit unlucky that we couldn’t get the momentum at the right time because he is a momentum type of horse,” Moreira said.

“If I did get the momentum I think he would have won. Based on that I am obviously going into the race with plenty of confidence.” – scmp.com

Tim Carroll:

My Nap on the card is for FOCUS, who runs in race 3, the Class 4 Quarry Bay Handicap (12.45pm), over 1 mile (1650m).

The four-year-old from the title seeking Ricky Yiu yard was a winner over course and distance last time out. On that occasion he was stepping up to this trip for the first time and although he only won by a small margin, it was a very decent performance.

He had to be gassed early to get across from a wide gate, he then sat behind a leader who ran them along at far quicker than standard splits, but despite dragging the field up to the front runner, the selection was able to find a decent kick when they came into the stretch.

The selection goes up 5lb today, but he has a perfect draw in 4 and from there he should have a far easier time grabbing a forward spot. In a race that should be run at a slightly more sedate pace, over a trip that looks tailor made for him and at the same level as last time, Focus looks one of the better bets on the card.

BETTING ON HONG KONG RACING
Punters can bet into the Hong Kong pools online through Tote.co.uk, Ladbrokes.com and Coral.co.uk.

My Next Best (NB) on the card, SKY SHOW, goes in Race 5, the Class 4 North Point Handicap (2nd Division) (1.45pm), over 6 furlongs.

The Jimmy Ting three-year-old has only had one start to date when unplaced over this trip at Sha Tin in what most would think was an inconspicuous debut, but was it? Obviously in my humble opinion it was not, as he went straight into my tracker.

Leading up to his debut he’d won a trial, and with Zac Purton booked for the ride it was no surprise there was a bit of money around to suggest he would run well, but things didn’t go to plan.

He copped a bad bit of interference early on, he then had to check off heels and didn’t see a lot of daylight over the concluding stages, but was still only beaten two lengths with Purton gearing down once his race was over.

The selection has subsequently won another barrier trial, and is entitled to have come on for his first outing. As someone who always takes note of the horse weights, I see they have shed some 38lbs from his frame since his debut, thus Sky Show will line up in this literally leaner and meaner, and with a bit more luck he should go close to recording his first win.

BETTING ON HONG KONG RACING
Punters can bet into the Hong Kong pools online through Tote.co.uk, Ladbrokes.com and Coral.co.uk.

My value each-way bet (EW), JUMBO HAPPINESS, comes up in race 9 on the card, the Class 3 Causeway Bay Handicap (2nd Division) (3.50pm), over 6 furlongs.

Beauty Spark, Californiadeepshot and Shouson ran 1-2-3 (in that order), last time out and all three have major claims in this, although Beauty Spark goes up 6lb. However in a race where there looks to be bags of speed, including the three mentioned, I thought it was sensible to look for a horse who would drop in behind them, and Caspar Fownes seven-year-old should do exactly that.

The selection was a winner over course and distance at his penultimate start when he ran over the top of the speed horses and its likely he will get a similar set up in this.

He was subsequently unplaced when he didn’t have a lot of luck when planted wide, but from gate 3 today Neil Callan, who was on top when he last won, should be able to grab a perfect trailing position, and in a race where they are likely to overdo it on the front end, look for Jumbo Happiness to be charging home.

BETTING ON HONG KONG RACING
Punters can bet into the Hong Kong pools online through Tote.co.uk, Ladbrokes.com and Coral.co.uk.

REMAINDER OF THE CARD

Race 1: Class 4 Tai Hang Handicap (11.45pm), over 11 furlongs.

Four of these met over 9 furlongs at Sha Tin last time out in a race where Good Days (7) was runner-up with Gala Night (4), GIANT TURTLE (1) and Mister Monte (12) in behind. In a race that lends itself to hunting some value I thought the selection might be worth an each-way play.

The selection has recently dropped down to this grade and had no luck in the aforementioned race, checking off heels on a couple of occasions and although its difficult to say with any certainty what might have happened with a clear round, he definitely should have been a lot closer.

Tony Millard’s eight-year-old is now 3 & 5lb better off with the two that finished in front of him last time, and as a course and distance winner the step up to 11 furlongs wont present a problem, and it is worth noting that the selection runs from a mark some 21lb lower than his last winning mark, albeit that was back in 2018.

Race 2: Class 5 Wan Chai Handicap (12.15pm) over 9 furlongs.

VICTORIOUS SEEKER has proven costly for followers having yet to win in twelve starts and being placed at his last five, but he looks the logical play in a Class 5 that has little depth.

Last time out he picked up the silver medal over this trip at Sha Tin and on that occasion he had Fortune Patrol (7) over 2 lengths back in third spot, and although 2lb worse off today I see little reason as to why he wont finish in front of his rival again today.

Paul O’Sullivan’s four-year-ol has only had two starts over the 9 furlongs at Happy Valley (placed in his most recent) and coincidentally he’s drawn 11 in both of them, and high gates are awfully difficult over this trip. To quantify, stall 11 has seen zero winners from 19 starters and the three widest gates (10, 11 & 12), have provided just the one solitary winner from 57 combined starters this season.

The selection is drawn in 2 today, and in a race that looks there for the taking, Victorious Seeker is presented with a golden opportunity to finally convert his consistent form.

Race 4: Class 4 North Point Handicap (1.15pm), 6 furlongs

SUPER ALLIANCES will be the selection despite Joao Moreira jumping off to ride Simply Fluke (7). However rider declarations are announced before the barrier draw, and I’d be curious to know which way Moreira would have gone after Simply Fluke drew in 12 (which incidentally is the eighth time he has drawn 11 or higher in nine starts this season!).

The selection is a three-year-old from the John Size yard who has been placed three times over course and distance at his last five spins including last time out when only beaten a short head by an unexposed sort.

On that occasion he was on the speed all the way and he’s likely to look to do the same here from stall 7.

With Simply Fluke likely to drift back from the wide gate and need some luck, and with Colonel (3) so disappointing last time out when an odds on favourite, Super Alliances, who only goes up 2lb today, should be tough to beat.

Race 6: Class 3 Fortress Hill Handicap (2.15pm), over 1 mile (1650m)

FLASH FAMOUS looks the one to side with here. Frankie Lor’s five-year-old has been in career best form this season having won four times over course and distance.

Last time out he drew high and had to be snagged back toward the rear of the field before working home strongly to finish second with a couple of these in behind.

Today he’s drawn in 2 and I think it’s likely they will ride him in similar fashion to the last time he won when he parked in behind the leaders, and that looks the spot to be given there isn’t a lot of speed on offer here.

Joao Moreira, who has been on board for his last three spins, retains the ride and the duo should go close to making it three wins from four starts when combining.

Race 7: Class 3 Causeway Bay Handicap (2.45pm), over 6 furlongs

Last start winner YOUNG LEGEND looks a major player in this. Last time out he won over course & distance when he sat on the back of the leader and eventual third, Diamond Brilliant (9), and this race looks likely to set up in a very similar fashion.

The selection has gone up 7lb in the handicap but as connections have elected to go with Victor Wong’s 5lb claim it means he meets Diamond Brilliant only 2lb worse off.

Beauty Amigo also contested the aforementioned race and was back in fifth spot, but as a subsequent winner, when the claim is accounted for, he now meets the selection 3lb worse off.

Victoriam was also a winner last time out but goes up 7lb and has a tough draw in 12 to contend with, thus Young Legend carrying only 2lbs more than last time in a race that maps perfectly, will be the one we side with.

Race 8: Class 3 Foretress Hill Handicap (2nd Division) (3.15pm), over 1 mile (1650m)

CINQUANTE CINQ goes off top weight here but carries 2lb less than he did last time when a beaten favourite. But on that occasion he had no luck when the rider went for an inside run in the straight and was stopped dead in his tracks, thus the run is simply best ignored.

Prior to that he had a win and two silver medals next to his name from four starts this campaign. He was a winner over course and distance three runs back when he charged home from the tail of the field from a high draw.

Today the selection draws perfectly in 5, and although I don't expect to see him on the front end, don’t be surprised if Purton, who rides him for the first time, has the selection a bit closer to the speed, and with a clear round, Benny Yung's five-year-old can make it win number three.

WEDNESDAY’S PLACE POT

Wednesday's Tote Placepot will be races 4 through to 9. We will be using Legs 2 (our Next Best) and 3 as our bankers and swinging wider in the other 4 legs. All up we will play 54 combinations (2x1x1x3x3x3), which will cost £5.40 for a 10p stake and so on. Good luck.

LEG 1: 6 SUPER ALLIANCES, 7 SIMPLY FLUKE

LEG 2: 5 SKY SHOW

LEG 3: 6 FLASH FAMOUS

LEG 4: 1 SHINING GEM, 3 YOUNG LEGEND, 9 DIAMOND BRILLIANT

LEG 5: 1 CINQUANTE CINQ, 5 HEAVENLY THOUGHT, 11 OWNERS STAR

LEG 6: 1 CALIFORNIADEEPSHOT, 3 JUMBO HAPPINESS, 5 SHOUSON

The UK Tote are offering a Placepot pool on all Hong Kong meetings; you can place your bet here.

Tim's Best Bets:

12.45 HAPPY VALLEY (Race 3)

FOCUS (Nap)

13.45 HAPPY VALLEY (Race 5)

SKY SHOW (Next Best)

15.50 HAPPY VALLEY (Race 9)

JUMBO HAPPINESS (Each-way)

John Blance: Hong Kong Racing Preview

Race 1 - 11:45am - Tai Hing Handicap

The two that stand out in the first of the evening are GOOD DAYS and GALA NIGHT. GOOD DAYS goes well over the longer trips at Happy Valley and showed himself in good form when flying home to finish second at Sha Tin over 2000m last time out. He has also drawn a much better gate this time round. GALA NIGHT was third in the same race and has shown up well in four starts at the city course. He raced prominently to win here over 1800m in March and, from stall two, should be in the vanguard throughout.

SWINGER: 4 and 7

Race 2 - 12:15am - Wan Chai Handicap

You can safely put a line through VIRTUS STAR’s last effort here as, from a wide draw, he ended up far too close to a hair-raisingly quick gallop. That was at 1650 and I like that he is up to 1800 metres here. He is not the best horse Zac Purton has ever ridden (rated a lowly 27) but he ran well here two starts ago and it is telling that the champion jockey has kept faith with him. He should be close to a much more conservative speed this time. VICTORIOUS SEEKER has been frustrating for followers on a win line for a while now, but there is nothing wrong with his racing attitude and he should place again.

WIN: 12

SWINGER: 2 and 12

Race 3 - 12:45pm - Quarry Bay Handicap

HAPPY WARRIOR must be a pleasure to own. He very rarely runs a bad race at Happy Valley, whether it be at 1200 or 1650 metres, and has thundered home under differing pace circumstance in his last two starts. This has evidently not escaped the attention of Zac Purton who leaps aboard this time and he has the added bonus of the perfect draw in stall one. Doctor’s Delight and Focus both ran well last time, but the selection is the one to beat.

WIN: 2

Race 4 - 1:15pm - North Point Handicap

The draw Gods don’t seem to like SIMPLY FLUKE. In his five Valley starts in 2019/20 he has pulled gates 11,9,11,11 and 12 and has been berthed in 12 here for good measure. However, he has still managed to run a collection of very good races and won with aplomb here under a virtuoso Moreira ride last time out. Provided he is not posted too wide he should go very well again. SUPER ALLIANCES was run over in the final yards last time out and should make another bold bid from the front. The two look like a good swinger.

SWINGER: 6 and 7

Race 5 - 1:45pm - North Point Handicap

It may play to go a bit wide in the fifth race on the card. WINNER’S HEART, with Victor Wong aboard, has enough natural pace to get what maybe an easy lead and, although he emptied insipidly last time out, he may be able to last out a bit further on Wednesday. VICTORY MASTERY went straight into the notebook when he flew home in a race that did not suit closers last time out, but he has another tricky gate to deal with it. On a win line I prefer WOOD ON FIRE who has been in great form and should get a nice rails run just off the back of the speed. He’ll also get a nice drag into the race from WINNER’S HEART.

WIN: 7

SWINGER: 4, 7 and 9

Race 6 - 2:15pm - Fortress Hill Handicap

FLASH FAMOUS is the obvious choice in the sixth on the card. He ran a mighty race when taken back from stall nine last time out and should be in a much better position on the rail and just off the pace this time. His prior record at Happy Valley is excellent and Moreira is booked for the ride. Say no more. An interesting outsider could be TOP SCORE. A sprinter for most of his career, he’ll have to go forward from stall 12 and may take a bit of running down. WIND GLIDER has massively improved in his last two starts and is interesting once more.

WIN: 6

SWINGER: 5, 6 and 8

Race 7 - 2:45pm - Causeway Bay Handicap

DIAMOND BRILLIANT was beaten at a short price last time out, but I am inclined to forgive him. He showed his customary excellent gate speed but ended up going a few tenths too fast mid race and was consequently run down. He should get to the front with the minimum of fuss this time too and if Zac Purton can get his very reliable cerebral clock working then a second career win is on the cards.

WIN: 9

Race 8 - 3:15pm - Fortress Hill Handicap

Moreira and Purton ride Heavenly Thought and Cinquante Cinq respectively and both are sure to have their supporters in the market, but I like OWNER’S STAR towards the bottom of the handicap. Dylan Mo would not be the most fashionable rider in the weighing room, but he gave this fellow a perfectly competent ride when chasing home Flash Famous (a strong chance earlier on the card) in early March and followed that up with an absolute belter behind the potentially very smart Righteous Doctrine on the All Weather last time out. He’ll do for me.

WIN: 11

Race 9 - 3:45pm - Causeway Bay Handicap

Dylan Mo may also be seen to good effect on board hardy veteran GOOD FOR YOU in the last. He zipped around the inside rail to finish well last time out and has very fortunately bagged stall one again. He looks a good one for exotics. On a win line, though, I like SHOUSON, who has run very in each of his last three starts here, despite his close proximity to strong gallops on each occasion. He’ll find a way of running well again and Purton keeps the faith.

WIN: 5

SWINGER: 5 and 12.

PlacepotPerm:

R4: 6 and 7

R5: 4, 7 and 9

R6: 5, 6 and 8

R7: 9

R8: 11

Race 1

9 Bullish Glory
7 Good Days
3 Crown Avenue

Race 2

10 Winners Brother
3 Enjoyable Success
7 Fortune Patrol

Race 3

11 Doctors Delight
6 Everyone’s Elite
12 Seize The Spirit

Race 4

12 Who’s Horse
6 Super Alliances
11 Lucky Missile

Race 5

4 Winner’s Heart
10 The Show
7 Simply Fluke

Race 6

8 Wind Glider
4 Xiang Bai Qi
6 Flash Famous

Race 7

3 Young Legend
9 Diamond Brilliant
1 Shining Gem

Race 8

4 Farshad
11 Owners’ Star
10 Divine Unicorn

Race 9

12 Good For You
5 Shouson
7 Beauty Spark

Anthony Delpech Best Bets

Anthony Delpech is a three-time South African jockey champion, and four-time winner of the Vodacom Durban July. He rode in Hong Kong for five years, winning many races including five Group 1 races.

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Happy Valley (Hong Kong)
Wednesday 29th April 2020

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Race 1 – 12:45

7 – GOOD DAYS (3)
Trainer: C S Shum
Jockey: Zac Purton

AD Comments: “Came from a long way back last two starts. Distance will suit. Should go one better.”

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Race 2 – 13:15

3 – ENJOYABLE SUCCESS (3)
Trainer: C W Chang
Jockey: B Shinn

AD Comments: “Dropped down in class. Big chance.”

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Race 4 – 14:15

6 – SUPER ALLIANCES (7)
Trainer: J Size
Jockey: Karis Teetan

AD Comments: “Just got caught last time, can make amends.”

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BEST BET
Race 5 – 14:45

5 – SKY SHOW (10)
Trainer: K H Ting
Jockey: Zac Purton

AD Comments: “Has improved in work after only one run. My best bet. Won the trial. Very impressive not long ago.”

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Race 6 – 15:15

6 – FLASH FAMOUS (2)
Trainer: F C Lor
Jockey: Joao Moreira

AD Comments: “Holding form well. Has won 4 races over course and distance.”

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Race 7 – 15:45

3 – YOUNG LEGEND (6)
Trainer: C S Shum
Jockey: C Wong

AD Comments: “Won well last start. Can follow up.”

Brett Davis - Selections Happy Valley - 29/4/20

It is another nine racer in the city Wednesday evening with the rail returning to the A position...or true for those still unfamiliar...ultimately meaning the track is at its maximum width throughout its circumference.

There are always been two potentially compromising situations I am extremely mindful of when doing form for a meeting of this nature and rail position.

1) The initial run from gates open the to the first bend for both 1200m and 1650m races is at its longest in comparison to all other alternative rail positions.

On many occasions you will find horses with pace that draw deep can easily build sufficient speed and cross the field below, untouched, unimpeded, with rhythm and a strongly built momentum, before entering the first change of direction. This can be extremely advantageous and in review has often enjoyed a strong correlation with the final results.

2) On most occasions at Happy Valley leaders back turning for home can be the sweet spot in running, particularly when your horse has done no work, is poised to pounce, the gap opens when they turn.."lovely”...home they go.."Yah Yah“ “Giddy Up”...Brilliant!

However, beware the A position. It can be a danger zone for hard luck stories occurring at the most critical of moments in the race. The turn into the home straight on the A course is more gradual as opposed to the sharper turn on the rail positions.

When the procession swings in to the home straight the formation, on occasions, only mildly alters and thereafter horses on or nearer the rail don’t receive any additional room with the field not dispersing.

This creates over crowding particularly when rival jockeys are peeling three deep joining in and holding their line, most of which are aware of what is about to unfold to those on their right.

Over the years I have seen, and been on, numerous good things caught up in congestion that never received clear air until long after the race was decided.

So it is worth taking a closer look at speed maps and rider bookings in those events as it can be a trap for inexperienced players.

R1 - 7,4,9,6,3

R2 - 12,7,2,3,8

R3 - 2,6,1,5,9

R4 - 7,2,3,6,12

Race 5

It is an open contest at 1200m and you could easily write a script for numerous horses to win, so shopping for each way value I feel is the best option.

#2 Lady First is having only its second start for the new stable of Tony Cruz and I’d be expecting a result soon. A Hong Kong maiden from 28 runs it is fair to say he has been costly, but the change of environment and stronger morning work sessions are likely to bring about change.

There was already some improvement noted in his first run for the yard and I would be expecting him to close strongly when it matters, away from the inside rail.

#8 Travel Datuk is another maiden who has been oh so close recently, with the horse that defeated him last outing looking quite smart.
#7 Wood On Fire is still learning his trade but has a decent engine, blinkers improved his focus last start and he is a potential class 3 galloper going forward if it all clicks in his mind.
#3 Amazing has been unlucky with barriers recently and again tonight, however he is going really well and can feature.
#9 Victory Mastery is still raw and green but capable with the Magic Man doing the steering.

Selections : 2,8,7,3,9

R6 - 7,2,6,5,4

R7 - 7,9,3,1,4

R8 - 11,7,1,3,5

Race 9

We arrive at the last and harking back to my theory earlier, I believe there is a great opportunity here for:
#1 Californiadeepshot to cross over from the wide draw alongside #11 Very Rich Man who is likely to set the tempo, then the pair sitting in one two positions down the back. The former looks the better horse being the improving type and should edge away once they complete turning for home.
#5 Shouson has had a long campaign but has proven his durability, he is likely to get all the favours again in transit.
#7 Beauty Spark appreciated the claiming riders assistants by getting it done nicely last run, it is a possibility lightning can strike twice here.
#10 What A Legend has struggled with the hike in grade since his wins earlier, but he’s still got scope to improve.
#2 Super Commander is the X factor first up, a former sharp sprinter from South Africa thats been trialling good, but has he acclimatised fully yet to cope with race pressure.

Selections : 1,5,7,10,2

Good days to give us some money towards some difficult exotics

Good punting