RISING PHOENIX

On April 14th, a dirt trial over 1200m saw the horse positioned mid-pack (3-5-6) with moderate urging. On March 24th, during a turf trial at Conghua over 1000m, it ran towards the rear before making up ground near the finish. A subsequent 800m turf trial at Conghua on March 7th saw a positive response to light riding, suggesting potential remained untapped (7-8-7). A December 20th dirt trial over 1200m showed reluctance to accelerate in the straight (11-10-11). Prior to May, it ran well in a straight course race, settling towards the rear after a slow start but finishing strongly for fourth, beaten by one and a half lengths. After a long break, four barrier trials have been undertaken without reaching peak fitness. The horse has shed 20 pounds, is switching to Happy Valley over 1200m – a distance expected to suit – and will race without additional weight this time, drawing a favorable barrier. A hold-up tactics are anticipated, with the finishing kick considered the strongest in its class, presenting a good opportunity. The jockey has some familiarity with the horse’s capabilities, and trainer/jockey relationship is solid, making it worth considering.