SMART ENGINEER

Five weeks ago, this horse ran a respectable race over Sha Tin’s 1200m, with a slow start but finishing strongly after settling towards the rear. Now switching to a straight course for his debut at this distance, he carries no additional weight this time but faces a shorter trip which isn't ideal and has drawn a poor barrier forcing a backmarker position. His finishing kick was not strong enough against rivals in his last outing, and trainer-jockey combination wasn’t optimal. However, the change to Antoine Hamelin as jockey is seen as positive, creating a good partnership with potential for success.