No need to be a Genius to plunder Valley Treasure
THERE is no doubt former top South African handler Brett Crawford has made his mark in Hong Kong since joining the training ranks this season.
The 54-year-old, who saddled a host of Group One successes in his home country, recorded his 28th success with PI Legend at Sha Tin last Sunday and can add to that tally before the season closes with GENIUS BABY in the six-furlong Fast Most Furious Handicap (12.00pm).
Crawford once again teams up with his close friend and ally, jockey Karis Teetan, who has provided the stable with an impressive 17 wins this season, with likely plenty more to come in future.
The partnership combined with this former Australian import for success over the course and distance back in December and he subsequently chased home smart handicappers Motor and King Profit over the track and trip in March.
That form is the best in the contest, and with an inside draw, a visor equipped for the first time and only a couple of pounds higher from his last win, he should be hard to beat.
It is interesting to note that Joao Moreira, who is contracted to ride for the Caspar Fownes stable, gets off the stable’s Noble Pursuit to partner last start winner KYRUS TREASURE in the nine-furlong Turin Warrior Handicap (12.30pm).
The progressive David Eustace-trained four-year-old always looked the winner when collecting his first success over the course and distance last month, and despite a penalty and stepping up in class, he carries nine pounds less in the saddle.
He’s likely to be in prime position from the off and can make his light-weight count in the closing stages.
POINTERS
Genius Baby 12.00pm Happy Valley
Kyrus Treasure 12.30pm Happy Valley