Chadwick has the edge over Whyte in Challenge
Douglas Whyte has won two Jockey Challenges since his return from suspension, but might have to play second fiddle to star apprentice Matthew Chadwick in a good old-fashioned face-off this afternoon at Sha Tin.
Only three jockeys were under double figures soon after odds were posted last night, with Whyte holding firm as the 2.6 favourite over Chadwick (3.3 out to 3.5) and Brett Prebble, who was the first rider supported, from 4.0 to 3.6.
Darren Beadman went up at 9.0 but was quickly out to 10.0, and it was 18.0 (Zac Purton) thereafter.
Whyte was booked for four overnight favourites and looks to kick off with a strong chance in Dragon Boy in a race where Chadwick's mount, Centennial Smile, has a good chance if some pace materialises, but lacks the versatility of Dragon Boy.
In race two, the boot is on the other foot in a race very thin on chances, with Chadwick aboard short-priced favourite Lucky Prince, who shapes to get the run of the race, while Whyte's mount, Finn Maccool, will be looking for some speed on to let him produce his big finish.
In the third, Chadwick has a strong claim with Gallant Champion at his second run for Tony Cruz.
He would need to have made a good start in the Challenge by then, as his next mounts don't look any luxury rides and Whyte should be strong mid-meeting.
