MEANINGFUL DRAGON

Throughout recent dirt trials at Conghua over 1200m (8/1: 2-3-6), the horse showed unremarkable performance with consistent pushing. Turf trials followed on 15/12 (1200m: 8-9-9) exhibiting a slow start and significant trailing, and again on 1/12 (1200m: 10-10-10) with a poor jump and substantial distance behind. The pattern continued in another turf trial on 13/11 (1200m: 2-2-4), maintaining pace only under pressure. A further dirt trial on 24/10 (1200m: 2-2-6) saw the horse track well initially before weakening from 200m out. Returning after a long break, this will be his seasonal debut following five trials which revealed no significant improvement. He is set to carry seven pounds more in this race and the plan is to settle towards the rear of the field; however, his finishing kick is unlikely to match rivals making for an unfavourable situation. Despite having some previous form over this distance and comparable times within the group, jockey Lyle Hewitsin has been booked who appears to have limited knowledge of the horse's capabilities. Trainer and jockey enjoy a good working relationship, but there’s little indication of a specific strategy.