Trainer Ricky Yiu Poon-fai's Atacx is quickly finding his find his feet, judging by the way he performed in the Class Three The House Repp Handicap (1,000m) on Sunday.

Atacx joined the local ranks off a rating of 68 following a three-year-old career in Ireland for trainer Tommy Stacks for a win and a placing - all on rain-affected going.

He lined up for the first time in the Yan Chai Trophy (1,200m) last month at Sha Tin, but faded after being overraced behind Flagship Shine at 64-1 odds.

Atacx was scratched for an intended run earlier this month after being fractious in the stalls. He reared and got his right front leg over the gates and was deemed unsuitable to race with abrasions to his leg.

Forced to trial, Atacx dashed well over the Valley 1,200m on January 19 to indicate all is well with the gelding.

This time on race day, the four-year-old settled around midfield, had to switch off the heels of Sir Eagles at the 300m, crossed out of traffic to the centre of the course at the 150m, was again tight for room between Oriental Prosper and Super Goal Elite.

He was again short of room in the concluding stages between Oriental Prosper and Big Four, before the final result - a length fifth behind Big Four.

He carries the blood of the effective Elusive City and Lure mare, Lure Of The Moon. Elusive City has fathered 16 winners from his 26 local performers - specialising at a mile or under at both courses and living up to the family genes of Elusive Quality-breed with top sprint performers.

Lure Of The Moon was unplaced in two outings in France for trainer Richard Gibson but has produced two winners - Elusive Galaxy and To Believe.

Atacx is a good stamp of runner and has the right tools to win his way into Class Two at a mile or under on both surfaces.

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