Hong Kong: Happy Valley Race 9 for May 5

An inside barrier draw gives Handsome Bo Bo a great chance to pick up a well-deserved victory at Happy Valley in Hong Kong on Wednesday.

Handsome Bo Bo was caught wide from his barrier draw of 11 for most of the journey on the tight Happy Valley track when he last lined up March 17, but still fought valiantly to finish second behind Kurpany.

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This week the son of Helmet is drawn barrier 3 and shouldn’t have to cover extra ground, giving him a fantastic chance of scoring his third victory in seven starts this season.

In an open field, Handsome Bo Bo’s toughest opposition may well come from Igniting. He was in great form in the early months of 2021 but put in a sub-par performance at his most recent race behind Kurpany and Handsome Bo Bo. He should benefit from his brief break.

Perhaps the toughest horse to assess is Silver Fig. He comes into the race after consecutive victories but they have both been on the Sha Tin all-weather track. He hasn’t run on turf since last season and his last victory on turf was two years ago, but he is in such good form that he can’t be ruled out.

California Rad, Guy Dragon, and Lobo’s Legend are also worthy of consideration.

BEST PLAY

Hong Kong, Race 9 at Happy Valley

• $3 to win: #5 Handsome Bo Bo
• $6 to show: #5 Handsome Bo Bo
• $1 box quinella: #5 Handsome Bo Bo anchored with #4 Silver Fig, #7 Lobo’s Legend, #8 Guy Dragon, #10 Igniting

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BONUS PLAY

New Zealand, Race 3 at Riverton, Thursday May 6 (local time)

Rosie Glow put up a great run to finish third after missing the start last time out. With an apprentice claim she should be extremely hard to beat.

• $3 win: #5 Rosie Glow
• $6 show: #5 Rosie Glow