Most of the trainers interviewed after the draw said they were more concerned with the weather than their allotted gate with most saying that it would be up to their jockeys to plan a strategy for the race.  The only race where the draw can make a difference is in the Cup as there is a very short run to the first turn and this often results in a bit of a scrum.  Both the Sprint and the Mile have most of the back straight in which to sort themselves out.

There were only four horses working this morning as in the words of one of the trainers they had done all their main work before leaving home and this was just a chance to get a feel of the track and acquire a bit of familiarity with it.

The weather is not looking good.  Sha Tin had a lot of rain overnight and early this morning with the parade ring roof having to be closed for the barrier drew.  Friday is going to be pretty wet, Saturday more showery and Sunday some showers but could be clearing up a bit.

All the trainers for the Overseas horses will be in town by Friday morning so we hope to have a chat to some of them.