NOBLE PURSUIT

On 2/9 (dirt trial 1200m: 8-8-4), the horse showed a decent surge from mid-pack. This is his debut run this season, having undergone one barrier trial with acceptable performance. In its first race back, over a Happy Valley mile, he will carry a seven-pound weight reduction but settled towards the rear due to pacing, lacking sufficient finishing kick compared to rivals and not appearing in favorable form. Trainer/jockey combination doesn’t seem ideal despite previous two wins at this distance; drawing a good barrier with the jockey gaining some understanding of the horse’s capabilities and increased work intensity, however, there's no clear strategy apparent.