Record time underlines Planet Ruler's true ability
For whatever reason, the times clocked on the Sha Tin turf track have been far quicker than previous years, but that could take nothing away from the track record over 1,400 metres set by Planet Ruler in the Panasonic Cup (race 153) when clocking 1:21.0 in a superlative victory.
The consistent galloper gained a deserved win following a string of sound performances (over the past year) in feature races when finishing second to the likes of Silent Witness (last year) and Scintillation (this year).
Planet Ruler wiped off 0.3 seconds from Fairy King Prawn's previous record, and, with a touch to spare on the wire. Runner-up Perfect Partner lost no admirers in a three-quarters-length defeat.
This run displayed marked improvement from his previous two outings and clearly, Caspar Fownes has him progressing as planned towards his main goal - the Hong Kong Mile next month.
Fownes must have been delighted with the display of Military Option, who finished fifth to Win For All over the Sha Tin mile (race 157). He came from last on the turn, in a final quarter that was timed in 22.5 seconds and only finished 21/2 lengths from the winner.
Speeding Molly (third) ran well on his first outing for Paul O'Sullivan and he should be fitter next time round.
Debutant Lucky Guys ($600) surprised punters when second to Happy Kid over 1,400 metres (race 152). He was also caught wide in a steadily run race, suggesting his performance was better than the bare facts state. He shouldn't have any trouble winning soon.
It has taken a little time for Lucky Cordelia to fulfil some promising trackwork but that was the case when he came with a powerful burst to finish second to Sheriff Bamboo over 1,200 metres on the all-weather. He can be followed when he competes over further - preferably on the artificial surface.
The way lightly raced galloper Bauhinia hit the line over the all-weather dirt mile (race 150) was encouraging. Even though Being Famous and Magic Temple drew more than five lengths clear of the remainder, Bauhinia stuck on gamely to the wire. He can be followed over a similar trip, or further, on either surface.
The tight circuit at Happy Valley on Wednesday night clearly did not suit Lucky Danske, who finished second to Flying Sprinter over the minimum trip (race 140). On several occasions during the race he did not look at ease, particularly around the home bend, but when balanced in the straight found the line purposefully.
Engineering Wonder has hit a purple patch of form this season and arguably should have won his second race this term over his pet 1,200-metres trip (race 146). Debutant Best Gift finished sixth, a creditable effort and good enough to suggest he warrants respect when he next appears.
ONES TO NOTE:
Lucky Guys, Lucky Cordelia, Best Gift
