RUBY THRIVE

28/4 (Dirt trial 1200m: 4-5-6) jumped out fastest and immediately settled back, but lacked sustained speed in the straight. 14/4 (Turf trial 1000m: 3-3-1) ran a respectable race, not winning or losing. 24/3 (Dirt trial 1200m: 1-1-5) jumped out slowly but quickly took an outside position, though the closing burst was lackluster. 18/12 (Conghua dirt trial 1200m: 1-1-5) led alone but faded in the straight. 5/12 (Conghua turf trial 1000m: 3-3-3) ran freely and smoothly. Six months ago, in a Sha Tin 1200m race on turf, the performance was disappointing; he tracked the leaders from a good position but lost momentum in the final stages, resulting in a heavy defeat. After five trial sessions, there has been improvement. In this straight race debut over this distance, he will carry an extra pound; the distance is not a perfect fit, and the time figures are weak. Draw is unfavorable, and his finishing kick has not been outstanding. The partnership between jockey and trainer is unremarkable; his strength lies in being able to maintain a favorable front-running position, with diligent training. It is not surprising that his performance may be lacking.