Trust in Patch to deliver the goods at Sha Tin
WITH the form book suggesting there is little to choose between the majority of the 10 contenders lining-up for the six-furlong Group Three Sha Tin Vase Handicap (10.10am), racing fans can expect a nail-biting finish.
Top-weight Raging Blizzard has raced with distinction on the last six occasions behind the fastest horse on the planet Ka Ying Rising. He finally comes out of his shadows, but has an awkward draw, and will probably have to sit at the back of the field.
Despite his blistering turn of foot in the closing stages, the fact he will be conceding weight and likely giving a start to some smart performers sets him a stiff task.
It is a similar scenario for Crimson Flash, who despite regularly producing fast closing sectional times, is lumbered with an outside gate and will need to pass many of his rivals when making his charge for glory.
With renowned front-runner Beauty Waves likely to set a searching early pace, PATCH OF STARS from the inside gate one is likely to get all the favours in this fiercely competitive handicap and his draw could prove decisive.
His recent form when outpointing rivals such as Crimson Flash and Lucky With You reads well, and with past statistics pointing to gallopers with low handicap marks faring best, he could be hard to beat.
Consistent Invincible Shield can never be discounted in this company. However, he has a tendency to start slowly which tempers enthusiasm.
A better alternative is the Caspar Fownes-trained SKY TRUST, who is always likely to pop up at decent odds.
You can ignore his latest form at Happy Valley as he has never won around the tight turning track, but his course and distance form reads well with three wins to his name.
With the stable and jockey Joao Moreira presently in top form, he is capable of out running his odds.
POINTERS
Patch Of Stars 10.10am Sha Tin
Sky Trust e/w 10.10am Sha Tin