GOLDEN FRIENDSHIP

Four weeks ago, this horse ran a respectable race over a Happy Valley sprint distance, breaking slowly and settling towards the rear. He showed a strong late run but was still beaten three and a half lengths. Another turf trial over Happy Valley 1200m followed, where he will carry one pound more this time. He has seven unsuccessful attempts at this distance with a weak finishing kick, and the overall form is not ideal. The jockey-trainer combination isn’t strong. However, his time in the trial was decent; he should be able to keep pace with the leaders. Drawing a favorable barrier and with Vincent Ho taking the ride, connections believe a smooth start will allow him to track the pace and finish in contention.