STORMING DRAGON

On April 2nd, in a dirt trial at Conghua over 1200m (recorded splits of 2-2-1), the horse jumped slightly slowly but quickly settled into a comfortable position and won the trial comfortably. Four weeks prior, over the same distance, it ran very well, jumping moderately and settling back in the field with an even pace throughout before finishing third with a strong late run, beaten two and a half lengths. A subsequent barrier trial showed slight improvement. Returning from a break, this time it will carry 18 pounds more weight. The current conditions aren't ideal, drawing a poor barrier which is likely to necessitate settling back in the field. Finishing speed may not be sufficient against rivals and trainer-jockey combination isn’t optimal. However, having won twice at this distance previously with good sectionals, it shouldn’t be discounted.