Shogun can get the TT ball rolling
John Size and Douglas Whyte have struck up a formidable partnership recently and can continue their winning ways with Shogun, who stands out as the banker selection in the opening leg of the TT.
The progressive galloper found the minimum trip at Sha Tin on the sharp side on his only start this term but hit the line strongly and will no doubt relish the step up to 1,200 metres. Whyte has drawn perfectly in gate one and should have every chance to hit the frame from a favourable alley.
Whyte would appear to have opted to ride Shogun in preference to Danske Very Much, who has been working well for Paul O'Sullivan. The New Zealand import impressed in a recent all-weather trial and has shown enough promise to be kept safe.
One that must be included is Tiger Ridge, who has improved markedly in his work since his last run on September 15.
The former griffin looks capable of rising a good deal higher in the ratings and must be given strong claims.
Native Language was a shade unlucky last time and considering he has decent form over the course-and-distance he merits respect.
Taking The Lead is in good form and cannot be ruled out of hitting the frame.
Size and Whyte are the team to follow in the middle pin, where Zabebe looks a top chance.
On his debut he finished a creditable fourth to Choice And Chance over the minimum trip and with the benefit of that run should have enough natural improvement to take all the beating.
Choice And Chance has won his last two starts and although he will find it harder this time round, cannot be ruled out of making the frame.
Golden Farm has been in cracking form this season after finishing second on all three starts. He remains in the same grade and has place claims.
Champ De Union looks capable of filling a minor place, while Grass Hopper is one to consider with the drop in grade.
The best option for banker in the final leg is Euphoric Kid, who has thrived since joining David Hall.
Since joining the Australian trainer he has managed a win and two seconds from three starts, one of those placings coming over the Valley mile. He is drawn perfectly in gate two and should prove hard to beat.
Olive Or Twist has a solid record over the course and distance and based on his better form is one to consider. He should be fitter for one run this term and is open to improvement.
Happy Together will need a bit of luck from the outside alley but has managed to hit the frame on all three starts this term and deserves inclusion.
The move to Happy Valley looks beneficial for Flying Success, who has shown enough positive form to be added to the short list.
Whyte has a terrific book of rides and Maestro is another that appeals as banker material in the fourth event. The key bonus is the switch back to the city course and from gate two he should prove hard to keep out of the frame.
Able Mars won in this grade on his last start and is one to consider, while Rena's Wunderbar ran on strongly last time and merits plenty of respect. The blinkers applied to Multi Ransom looks a positive gear change and he may be worth including.
