Cruz and Coetzee set to continue their dominance
Tony Cruz and Felix Coetzee could have a good day at the office today and continue their domination of the feature events by picking up more silverware in the Yan Oi Tong Cup with Swiss Lad.
The transformation Swiss Lad has made this season under Cruz's tutelage has been quite remarkable. Based on a string of sound performances over 1,400 metres at Sha Tin he looks highly likely to add to his impressive statistics.
The grey son of Danehill ran well in defeat when second to subsequent winner Being Famous on February 20 over this course and distance. And the form out of the race looks very good, considering Saint Thomas (third) went close to winning on his next outing, with My Choice (fifth) landing the South China Morning Post Cup the following week, and Sparkling Star (fourth) and Bumper Bumper (sixth).
In addition, Swiss Lad has drawn ideally in gate one, and Coetzee will be able to dictate the pace or take the box seat in a race that is most likely to be a steadilyrun affair.
Swiss Lad has impressed in his recent work and there is little doubt he is the one they all have to beat.
One of the main threats is expected to come from Caspar Fownes's Himalaya. Leading jockey Douglas Whyte has been booked for the ride on the back of a fine effort when second to Summerland last week over the Sha Tin mile.
Several horses have performed well when backing-up within a week and there is no reason to suggest Himalaya can't do the same.
A strong case can be made for last-start winner Expectations, who caught the eye in a turf barrier trial at Happy Valley. It was a sterling piece of work and he has clearly hit a purple patch. Apprentice Alex Lai Hoi-wing was on board when Expectations broke through and won on the all-weather on February 27 and the seven pound claim should come in handy once again.
John Size's Winning Dragon resumes after a four month break but his early season form was decent enough to keep him safe. Stablemate Wintrow may have reached his limit in the ratings and with Whyte appearing to opt to ride Himalaya in preference, it would be a surprise if he was able to turn it all around today.
Derby-winning trainer David Ferraris has a decent chance with Goody, who has been a model of consistency all season.
Sean Woods' Best Luck has scored twice this season over the course and distance. Swiss Lad finished well ahead of him the last time they met. He remains in good form, but is higher in the handicap now and may have to settle for a minor place.
John Moore has opted to apply a one-side winker to Amazing Victory, who was only caught in the shadow of the post when second to Noble Silence over the course and distance in January 26.
However, he had all favours on that occasion and just failed to see out the distance. This also looks a stronger contest and he would do well to figure in the finish.
It wouldn't be a total shock if Wyndam Easy prevailed, taking into account his record over the course and distance. But based on his recent form it is hard to envisage that being the case.
The drop back in trip doesn't look suitable for Money Strong, who is better suited over the Valley mile.
Meath didn't make a big impression on debut and he is best opposed for the time being.
The form of Stardane this season has deteriorated and he should be outclassed again along with Flying Bishop.
The best value chance is Dashing Winner, who will relish the drop back in trip. His recent form is better than the bare facts suggest and he comes into this event dangerously weighted.
