The special sense of anticipation and excitement that thousands of racing fans pick up on as BMW Hong Kong Derby week gathers pace is something that never grows old.
For me, the fact that each horse gets just one shot at becoming a Derby hero gives this special race a unique attraction to Hong Kong horsemen and a huge amount of preparation and investment goes into finding suitable candidates every year.
In a way, this year’s race provides a perfect example of the Derby’s cosmopolitan nature.
The 14-runner field will include high-class contenders sourced in England, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and Brazil.
Superstar riders like Hugh Bowman and Ryan Moore will be among the international riders flying in to try and win the race again, and what we have seen on the road to the Derby in recent months suggests that this year’s field is right up to the race’s historical high standards.
Wednesday’s Prelude to Derby Party at Happy Valley always helps set the scene for what is to come.
Thursday’s draw ceremony provides further debate about pace and track position from a 2000m start that provides even the very best riders with some fascinating tactical challenges in a maximum field of 14.
And Friday night’s Hong Kong International Sale in the paddock at Sha Tin is another notable and highly colourful event with very well related young stock by some of the world’s leading stallions going under the hammer.
All in all, the next few days will provide a perfect snapshot of the world-class racing that Hong Kong has to offer.
The countdown is well under way and there is still ample time for a few more twists in the plot before the stalls crash open on Sunday afternoon.
Moving on to Wednesday night’s card at the Valley, the Class 4 Ewo Challenge Trophy is the fourth race at 1650m with a moderate pace to be set by Polymer Luck and Multigogo. The tempo may relax in the middle stages which may prompt an early move from one of the horses midfield or worse.
Polymer Luck will benefit from the easy pace and a better draw, which makes him a win and place chance.
Super Lucky is another solid place chance. He is working very well and will be suited by moving up from 1200m to 1650m with Zac Purton back aboard.
Alpha Hedge had a difficult trip in his last start and is a threat to bounce back with a much improved effort here. He should have every chance from midfield or better and is a place chance along with Electric Lightning, who drops to Class 4 where he has been more competitive in the past.
Comment
