Size’s Express a Stellar bet at Sha Tin
RACING in Hong Kong moves to a rare Saturday slot at Sha Tin this weekend, when the action gets underway with an 11-race programme including a couple of contests on the all-weather surface.
Unfortunately, rain has reared its ugly head once again in the territory with the forecast of heavy showers and thunderstorms already circling the city which looks likely to turn surface conditions to yielding or soft.
This will be music to the ears of trainer John Size who saddles his course and distance specialist STELLAR EXPRESS in the main event on the card, the five-furlong Pearce Memorial Challenge Cup Handicap (12.35pm).
The son of Zoustar has an impressive track record over the straight five furlongs with five wins and five places from 15 races, including victory in the Group Three Bauhinia Sprint Trophy back in January.
Size has always reckoned any juice in the ground is a bonus for his fast-starting galloper, who is only a few of pounds higher in the handicap than he was for his last win in February and has been primed for this contest.
Dangers are a plenty with the likes of Bottomuptogether, Colourful King, and Invincible Sage in opposition. Expect an upturn in form from Magic Control too, who is in peak condition according to track work judges.
Later on the card, the Brett Crawford-trained Mr Incredible is going to be all the rage with both bettors and pundits, when he seeks to confirm his high reputation in the six-furlong Shek Sheung River Handicap (1.40pm).
The son of Toronado made a huge impression when running away from opposition over the track and trip in April, and with a good gate in two, he is likely to go off an odds-on favourite.
He does, however, step up in class against some fast and experienced sprinters and the handicapper has taken no chances by giving him a hefty 11-pound penalty for that victory.
It may pay to take a chance with another John Size sprinter LIFELINE EXPRESS who has everything in place for an overdue victory.
The Australian import excels on soft ground, is back on his last winning mark in the ratings, and his body weight is near identical to his last win.
With an inside gate in three a plus, he can run a big race at attractive odds.
POINTERS
Stellar Express 12.35pm Sha Tin
Lifeline Express e/w 1.40pm Sha Tin