Interesting griffin Mako makes his racing debut in the opener at Sha Tin today and he certainly looks ready to run a big race.
Wendyll Woods, who has been in fine form all season, partners the Wong Tang-ping galloper for well-known owner Annie Wang and wound up his preparation for today's debut with a quick tune-up yesterday.
Mako has worked and trialled well for some time and in yesterday's piece of wrap-up work in a shade over even time he did look in extremely good shape. Few who've seen Mako going through his paces over the past six weeks doubt that he has the innate ability but key factors today will be fitness and greenness.
First-up over 1,400 metres is a bit of a task for a juvenile but, as Woods pointed out yesterday, astute local handler Wong would not have him in there were he not fit enough to give an account of himself.
'The topweight [Master Magic] is the one to beat, but Mako is going to be a very nice horse. I have been impressed with him and he will run a bold race,' said Woods, minutes after dismounting.
Those taking a chance on Mako today - and a quinella with Master Magic is recommended - will know that, if things do not work out here, it will merely be a question of waiting to get the money back. Mako will oblige.