Hong Kong Preview: Nimbus looks too Nimble

#6 Nimble Nimbus looks set to continue a good run of form when he contests the Jervois Handicap at Happy Valley on Tuesday.

The Sacred Falls gelding has improved since stepping up to distances around a mile, and his last two runs at Happy Valley have been top-notch. He sprinted away for a five-length victory on yielding ground May 11, and was just a head behind Dr Winning on good to firm footing on June 1.

He has decent gate speed, and with the ace draw he should get out quickly from the 1,650-meter (about 1 mile 45 yards) before making a strong challenge in the stretch. Lyle Hewitson takes the mount.

Last-start winner #5 My Ecstatic might well prove the most challenging horse for Nimble Nimbus to beat. He has stepped up to a mile at his last two starts and handled it well, scoring very nicely at Happy Valley May 25. Jockey Derek Leung will look for a forward spot from barrier three and hope to challenge entering the stretch.

Some of the better chances in the race are handicapped with wide draws, which are not helpful on the turning Happy Valley track. These include #9 The Anomaly, #10 Win Win Fighter, and #4 Escape Route.

Of those, Escape Route might be the best chance, as he tends to come from off the pace. He hasn’t run well at Happy Valley previously, but that was at much shorter distances, and 1,650 meters will suit him better. Karis Teetan will look to find some cover and drive home late.

The Anomaly can be in the finish if he doesn’t have to work too hard during the race, while Win Win Fighter continues to run well and will benefit from the services of Zac Purton.

#1 Copartner Ambition and #3 Amazing One Plus are others to consider for exotics.

• $10 win/$30 show: #6 Nimble Nimbus
• $1.30 trifecta: 5, 6 with 4, 5, 6 with 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10

Bonus play – New Zealand

Cambridge Synthetic, Race 4, NZB Insurance Pearl Series, Rating 65, 1,300 meters (about 6 1/2 furlongs)

$10 win/$30 show, #3 Magic Show: First race since January but won trial well May 24 and has scored on the synthetic before.