The aptly named Special looks just that in the featured Volunteers' Challenge Cup at Happy Valley tonight. The Class Three longer sprint has attracted a field of 12, but the credentials of must of them do not stand up in light of recent form and their efforts on the work track. Special won last time out in commanding fashion in Class Four, but did it in such a manner as to suggest the obligatory rise in grade would not necessarily stop him winning again. Special put paid to Easy Job and Masterkova at Sha Tin and the result was never really in doubt.
Damien Oliver had the David Hayes-trained three-year-old lobbing along just off the pace and when asked for an effort, Special responded admirably.
He quickly collared Easy Job and went on to win by two and a quarter lengths.
It was a facile win and the Centaine youngster was certainly unextended to score. It is difficult to see him being beaten on the score of his exposed ability and one would have to believe there is a lot of scope for improvement on that last performance.
Interestingly, he had his first race outing at Happy Valley when finishing fourth over 1,000 metres so the city track, with the crowds and lights, should not prejudice Special's chances. He has been here before and did not turn a hair. The biggest danger, and likely quinella, comes from a Class Four galloper taking a voluntary promotion for the race.
Bottomweight Red Wine is a noted Happy Valley performer and is in good shape for this event. His work has been solid and he caught the eye last Saturday morning in a Sha Tin hit-out which underwrote his claims for this contest.
He will go a lot better tonight than he did last time in a run that is best forgotten. Quick Money has been freshened up and must have some claims in this as he has gone well enough at the Valley before, but his previous winning effort was on the dirt. Topweight Action Time is fitter now and going better in the mornings, which suggests he could marginally improve on a last start fourth to Centre Court and Carryonninetyseven which is not bad form.
