Hong Kong Preview: Zebrowski ready for first Hong Kong victory

Former Australian Derby runner-up #6 Zebrowski should go close to scoring his first victory in Hong Kong when he contests the American Club Challenge Cup (1800m, about 1 1/8 miles) at Happy Valley Nov. 3.

The Savabeel colt was one of the better staying three-year-olds in Australia early last year, finishing second in both the Australian Derby (G1) and the Tulloch S. (G2), both times behind Quick Thinker.

After a six-race campaign in the spring of 2020, in which his best effort was when runner-up to Chapada in the Herbert Power S. (G2), Zebrowski headed to Hong Kong. In three races he’s gradually improved, and he was only narrowly beaten by Celestial Power at Sha Tin Oct. 17.

From gate three he should get a nice trip for jockey Vincent Ho and another bold effort is expected.

#8 All For St Paul’s steps up to Class 2 company for the first time after a brave victory over 1600m at Sha Tin Oct. 1. He rarely runs a bad race and should get a good run from barrier seven.

The class horse in the race is #1 Savvy Nine. He has frequently run in Class 1 races and though he’s only been victorious once in Hong Kong, it came in the January Cup (G3) on this course. He will benefit from Jerry Chau’s apprentice claim.

#9 Sunny Star, #3 Berlin Tango, and #4 Savaquin deserve respect, while the market will provide a good guide to #7 Looking Great, who runs for the first time this season. He was consistent much of last season and won twice over 1800m.

Best Hong Kong Play

Happy Valley, November 3, Race 5

• $5 win/$10 show: #6 Zebrowski
• 50c trifecta: 6 with 1, 3, 4, 7, 8 with 1, 3, 4, 7, 8
• 50c trifecta: 1, 3, 4, 7, 8 with 6 with 1, 3, 4, 7, 8

BONUS PLAY – NEW ZEALAND

Otaki, November 3, Race 8

$5 win/$10 place, #4 Victorem: Stakes-placed mare who came back to winning form at Woodville Oct. 22. Well capable of repeating the dose on home track.