Davis Files : Happy Valley preview - 15th March 2023

Brett Davis provides exclusive preview of Happy Valley races.

Racecourse : Happy Valley
Racecourse : Happy Valley Picture: Vince Caligiuri/Getty Images

"Rail - C Course"

Race 1

#5 OWNERS' STAR should have won his last race but interference at a crucial moment impeded momentum an arguably costing him the race. Mathew Chadwick jumps back aboard and he's riding like a man inspired, creating a strong level of confidence.
#2 DRAGON PRIDE enjoyed a career defining period mid way through last year which saw him produce four wins and four minor placings from ten starts. That level of performance has been unreachable so far this campaign, but it hasn't been from a lack of endeavour. The handicappers have now enabled him to re-enter the realms of class 5 company and with Purton back aboard he'll take beating.
#7 LOYAL AMBITION continues his search for a win and from an advantageous barrier must be considered a hope. As the beaten favourite at two of his past three it's becoming increasingly difficult to make a genuine case for him to win. However, each new race brings about a brand new challenge and at some point things shall unfold his way.
#1 AI ONE arrives to his first class 5 contest as fit as he's ever been following a bold front running display last start. That 2200m performance displayed grit and determination despite the fact he was run down towards the end. A similar effort here, off the inside draw, shall have him winning but the 135lbs is a potential thorn in his side.
#4 LUCKY MISSILE appears to have deplorable form when you peruse the race guide but he's going better than it reads. Wide barriers, and a couple of ordinary rides, haven't helped his chances recently so don't be surprised if he improves. With an excellent record this track and distance, and a recent drop in grade, he's in the mix.

Selections : 5,2,7,1,4

R2 - 8,12,11,7,4

R3 - 8,10,11,12,3

R4 - 8,7,4,5,3

R5 - 8,10,7,2,9

R6 - 7,3,1,2,9

Race 7

#2 HOWDEEPISYOURLOVE was as impressive as we anticipated recently and a similar result is on the cards. A number of tonights opposition are capable of challenging him for the win but likely to giveaway a start. Race conditions are almost identical to those of last start, with the 6lb increase unlikely to be of concern.
#6 JUMBO LEGEND is a very consistent animal and a danger if they thrash along at speed. He's realistically a 1400m specialist, but obviously has to work his runs between the 1200m and Happy Valley mile. With his recent racing over the longer trip he's guaranteed to find the line with surging power.
#1 YOURMYEVERTHING makes his way back in grade and must be included in discussions. With 135lbs to shoulder, and a back markers profile, he's probably worth taking on for the win this time around. That being said, he possesses a powerful turn of foot and continues to race well, but probably falls a fraction short.
#5 HELENE FEELING arrived from England last year and is ready to now make his Hong Kong racing debut. Hugh Bowman has completed most of the lead up trials and preparation, however, Purton takes the reigns on race night. He's a decent size unit working well in the mornings so late market moves are the guide.
#7 PARTY WARRIOR is a much better galloper than his form this season suggests and a return to the city circuit catches the eye. His sectional data last season was outstanding, on a number of occasions, but where it's gone is perplexing and up for debate. Nevertheless, he's a runner I'd be including in exotics as he'll be a nice juicy price.

Selections : 2,6,1,5,7

R8 - 5,2,8,1,12

R9 - 7,6,3,4,12


 
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