TRAINER Geoff Lane has been having a first-rate season and there could well be a couple of juicy Christmas presents on the way, writes Robin Parke. An impressive win by Chater Sovereign on International Day gave Lane his 10th winner of the season and Royal Pride can take the tally that little bit higher by obliging in the fifth event on tonight's moderate Sha Tin all-weather card. Lane has turned to his capable seven-pound claimer James K. C. Chan to ease the 140-pound burden and Royal Pride has been perfectly drawn in barrier four for the 1,150-metre race. On his inside is Shanghai Star who will almost certainly blaze out of the gates, but Chan and Royal Pride should have the perfect trail and the Lane-trained galloper has the better finish.
Royal Pride ran a short-head second to Chiu Chow Kid at his last start at the Valley 12 days ago and that was over 1,200 metres. He came from some way back under Darryll Holland to almost get to the winner on the line. But Royal Pride possesses the early speed to be right on the pace over shorter trips. He is an adaptable customer who will find the all-weather and the trip to his liking. There is every chance of getting a reasonable price about the horse as both Belarus and Noble Knight seem certain to attract many admirers. Belarus was widely touted as top-flight contender in his griffin season, but he did not start and then found himself beginning his career in Class Four. Backed down to 5-2 for his racecourse debut he was beaten on the merits by unheralded V-Ming and took another cartload of money down with him when finishing fourth to On The Beat over 1,600 metres.
The form is not overly impressive and he may find this a little on the short side, but Belarus comes into calculations on the strength of a trial win on the surface recently. There was an amazing plunge on Noble Knight at his first start, but it came unstuck and local rider Danny Lee was out of luck again at the horse's next start when, at much longer odds, he failed to flatter behind Fortune Winner. He has no all-weather form and may well find the trip on the short side. But there will be support as Mick Kinane teams up again with David Hayes. The Irish ace rode Champion Mascot to victory for Hayes last month.
Last-start winner All Smiles has not been missed by the handicapper for his fighting Valley win, but may find it difficult to follow up. Owner Law Cheuk bought a Bluebird for $1.8 million at last week's Select Sale so prize money gained tonight would be a help.
