GOLDEN BRILLIANT

On March 5th (dirt trial 1200m: 6-6-6), the horse was urged during the turn, maintaining a mid-pack position. On February 24th (turf trial 1000m: 11-11-11) it broke slowly and showed little pace. On March 13th (Happy Valley turf trial 1200m: 6-6-4), it was urged along the straight, finishing with a late run. A trial on January 26th at Conghua over 1200m saw it track the leaders with consistent pace throughout. Two months ago in its last race over this course and distance, it performed well, settling back in the field with a steady pace before making gradual ground to finish fourth, beaten two and a half lengths – showing good potential. Four barrier trials have been undertaken without significant improvement observed. Time figures are reasonable; trainer-jockey combination is adequate and pre-race preparation has been thorough. Despite an unfavorable draw and a lack of a clear finishing kick, the horse hasn’t been ruled out entirely.