BUNTA BABY

On March 13th, during a Conghua dirt trial over 1200m, the horse tracked the leaders and maintained pace with urging. Two months prior, in a 1200m dirt race, it performed poorly, breaking slowly and settling towards the back with a steady pace but no finishing kick, resulting in a significant defeat. A subsequent barrier trial showed unremarkable form. Switching to Happy Valley over 1200m for its first attempt at this distance, the horse will carry two pounds less weight, but is considered lacking in finishing speed and faces unfavorable circumstances due to a perceived disconnect between trainer and jockey. However, the distance appears suitable, and with a good barrier draw allowing for an early lead, Derek Leung has been booked as the rider, possessing some understanding of the horse’s capabilities; a clean break and intent to lead should see it contend for a forward position.