ARMOR GOLDEN EAGLE

Ten days ago, this horse ran a respectable race over a Sha Tin 1600m course, with a slow jump and settling towards the rear. The pace was consistent throughout, finishing with a gradual recovery in the final stages, losing by half a length. Now stepping back to Happy Valley over a mile for its debut at this distance, it benefits from a one-pound weight reduction and showed reasonable time figures. It requires a hold-up tactic, possessing the strongest finishing kick within its group. The horse and jockey combination are aligned with the trainer’s strategy, however, the distance may not suit; an upset victory is possible.