ICONICAL

8/10 (Sha Tin dirt trial 1200m: 1-1-1) won comfortably when allowed to run freely. Five weeks ago, he performed excellently in a short-distance Happy Valley race, settling well and tracking the pace to finish second, beaten only two and a half lengths. The trial showed some improvement. Rerunning over 1200m on Happy Valley turf, he carries two extra pounds this time. Although he has lost all seven previous races and drew an unfavorable draw, with slightly lacking finishing power, he managed to settle well near the front and his time was acceptable, making him a potential dark horse contender.