David Oughton and Glen Schofield have a decent strike rate when they team up and Triple Trio punters will be hoping that remains the case when progressive galloper Hapi Hapi tackles the middle leg.
With the help of a $21.3 million jackpot, the TT pool should reach $40 million and Oughton's last-start winner looks the standout selection. Hapi Hapi was a convincing victor on March 13 over 1,200 metres at Sha Tin, and looks good value for the seven-point penalty. The move to the city course should not cause any concerns and he looks destined to rise higher in the ratings.
Also open to plenty of improvement is In The Bank, a beaten favourite on debut this month when third to Top Health over 1,200 metres. He looks a decent prospect and has the advantage of gate one so he will have plenty of admirers.
The reapplication of blinkers to A Plus Fit made all the difference at his last start on March 27 when he led from start to finish over 1,400 metres. There was a slight track bias assisting leaders that day, but he still merits strong respect. The recent form of Bullish Luck has been excellent and he has strong claims to hit the frame, while South China Ninety has drawn poorly but is capable of a place with luck in running.
Golden Stride is a multiple winner over 1,200 metres at Happy Valley and, now that he has hit form, he looks a decent chance to repeat against similar opposition in the first leg. He could have won a touch easier than the official margin (11/4 lengths) last time and should hit the frame again.
Honourable finished second to Golden Stride in that race, but will need more than an ounce of luck from gate nine to reverse the placings.
Royal Exchange caught the eye in a recent trial at Sha Tin over 1,000 metres and has worked positively enough to warrant inclusion.