EVER SMART

Three weeks ago, this horse ran well over a Happy Valley 1200m, with a slow jump but settling back in the field before making a strong effort in the middle sections and finishing strongly. Another trial over Sha Tin’s 1200m, he has a one-pound weight reduction this time and draws an inside barrier; tactics will be to settle back again, possessing a good finishing kick within the group. Horse and jockey are well matched, but even with comparable section times, the barrier draw is not ideal, and trainer-jockey combination isn’t strong.