HERO RISING

Trial on 17/4 (Shekou turf barrier trial over 1000m: 2-1-1) showed a steady run with both early and late speed. The run on 27/3 (Shekou turf barrier trial over 1000m: 2-3-3) was slightly encouraging, maintaining a consistent pace. A trial on 2/3 (Shekou turf barrier trial over 800m: 5-5-5) showed some hint of pace, but the run was not particularly strong. As a debutant after arriving in Hong Kong at the beginning of January, the horse has completed three barrier trials showing slight improvement. The horse has a low stride and quick footfalls, displaying decent early speed. Given its history of short-distance racing, the main concern might be its body weight. For this first race, the barrier position is favorable; if the start goes well, setting a steady pace to follow the leaders might prove effective.