COLOURFUL KING

Five weeks ago, the horse performed poorly in a Happy Valley 1200m race; he was slow to break, settled towards the rear, maintained a steady pace throughout, and made little headway, resulting in a heavy defeat. Now stepping up in class to run in a straight-line race, he carries nine pounds less this time. He has proven himself over this trip with a respectable time, and he is expected to run from the back. His finishing kick among his peers in this field is the strongest. Based on overall assessment, he is positioned among the frontrunners for this race. His morning work has shown suitability. Despite not having an advantageous position, a less-than-ideal draw, and no particularly harmonious partnership between jockey and trainer, he cannot be written off.