David Hayes and Gerald Mosse have an excellent chance to land the penultimate event with Native Dream, who can make amends for a luckless run over the Sha Tin mile on his only start this term.
Nothing went right for Native Dream on his only start this term, mainly due to the moderate tempo set by Classic Master. The lack of pace in the early stages made it impossible for Native Dream to win, but he would have still finished second to Sambuca if he'd had more luck in the home straight.
On numerous occasions the gaps closed, but when he found clear room inside the final 100 metres, Native Dream hit the line strongly. There is a strong chance the race will be run more truly today, with Classic Master unlikely to dictate the pace with the presence of Super Brose and Summerland.
In addition, Native Dream, with the benefit of one run this term will be fitter. Mosse will need to weave some magic from gate 11 in order not to cover too much extra ground, but providing he doesn't get caught too wide he should take some beating.
Classic Master finished ahead of Native Dream when they last met, but with the strong likelihood he will not get the chance to dictate this time round, he may struggle to hold that form. Super Brose will more than likely press forward, but he is a major risk over the Sha Tin mile and is best opposed.
Another potential pace influence, Summerland, has been unplaced each from nine local starts. His recent work has shown a shade of improvement and may be worth including in multiples if he jumps at decent odds, remembering he had Group form in France.
One of the obvious threats comes from highly consistent Sirocco. He showed his win in the Kwangtung Handicap Cup (1,400m) was no fluke when a solid third to Great Delight in the Toyota Cup (1,400m) last month. He is well drawn and has each-way claims once again.
