Hong Kong Preview: Star Brite to shine

An inside barrier draw may be all that’s needed for #4 Star Brite to win his first race in Hong Kong when he contests the Des Voeux Handicap over 1,200 meters (about six furlongs) April 6.

Star Brite, a winner of two in Australia when known as Bravado, has usually run well in his six Hong Kong races, all in Class 3 company. However, the best he has managed to date is third, including at his most recent race at Happy Valley March 16.

That day he had the tough task of barrier 10 at the Happy Valley 1,200 meter start. He got to the front that day but used up too much gas in doing so and was unable to fend off his challengers.

This time, he gets to start from barrier one, and he has the services of Zac Purton, who has hopped off last-start winner #3 Lucky Archangel to ride Star Brite. From the draw he should be very hard to beat.

Lucky Archangel should be a good chance again, though he has to deal with barrier 10. Also worth a thought is #10 Wine and Wine, who has been in good form of late. He should also get a nice run from barrier five, and he has a five-pound apprentice claim from Victor Wong to aid him.

#6 Flaming Passion continues to be consistent; he ran into the exciting Lucky Sweynesse at his last start and doesn’t have to face anything as good here. Last-start Class 4 winner #5 Wild West Wing is also worth a thought, having won over 1,200 meters for the first time March 23.

One for odds could be #2 Sky Forever; he finished strongly late for sixth last start behind Star Brite, just one length from the winner. He has barrier 11 to deal with, but if the pace is hot out front he could rally past most of the field.

BEST PLAY – Hong Kong, Happy Valley, Wednesday, April 6, Race 9

• $10 win: #4 Star Brite
• $30 show: #4 Star Brite
• $1.30 trifecta: 3, 4 with 3, 4, 6 with 2, 3, 4, 6, 10

BONUS PLAY – NEW ZEALAND

Wanganui, Wednesday April 6 (ET), Race 6, Tina Egan Racing 1360

• $10 win: #10 Contribute
• $30 place: #10 Contribute: Has looked very good to date and should be ready for another strong effort.