POCKETING

(Dirt trial 1200m on 25/9: Settled in the rear initially, a strong mid-race surge, fully extended. Four weeks ago, this horse ran reasonably well over 1400m on Sha Tin turf, though a slow start and trailing for most of the run. He showed acceleration in the middle section and chased in the final two sections on the straight. A subsequent trial did not show improvement. In a later 1800m Sha Tin turf trial, this was his first attempt at the distance; the trip didn't suit him, and he faced time disadvantages within the group, with an unfavorable barrier draw. If he adopts a trailing style again, his late kick may not be enough to match the competition; the jockey and trainer coordination was not ideal, making high expectations difficult.)