KARMA

Sixteen days ago, in a dirt trial over 1600m at Conghua (4-4-3-1), the horse settled mid-pack and showed a strong finishing kick. Three weeks ago, this horse ran well over a Sha Tin mile, slow out of the gates but settling back and making a move in the middle stages with a good late surge. He finished sixth, beaten three lengths. A recent barrier trial indicated slight improvement. This will be his debut on the Sha Tin 2000m turf, needing to carry five pounds more this time. The distance increase is expected to suit, requiring a hold-up strategy and relying on a strong finishing run. Vincent Ho takes the ride, having some familiarity with the horse’s capabilities; trainer and jockey remain aligned in their expectations, showing consistent form in morning trackwork, and should be able to maintain pace.