Jacobee has been a constant source of surprise to trainer John Moore this season, but the four-year-old won't shock anybody if he confirms his Derby claims with a win in the Group Three Jebsen Centenary Vase (1,800m) at Sha Tin today.
After being nervy last season, Jacobee has transformed this season simply by relaxing better in his races and gives in-form lightweight rider Greg Cheyne (pictured) a powerful chance to score his biggest Hong Kong win.
Jacobee has strung together three straight wins over this distance and last time at 2,000m to make his way up the grades and establish himself as a Derby contender. A win would set him on the same path as 2001 Derby winner Industrial Pioneer and 2005 Derby champion Vengeance Of Rain.
Both were able to win the Centenary Vase under light weights on the way to the Derby and the weight structure is the biggest thing in Jacobee's favour again.
For instance, he lines up against the first two from last year's Derby, Super Satin and Super Pistachio, but will be in receipt of 15 pounds and six pounds respectively from them.
Jacobee was probably assisted in running out 2,000m last start by being held up in the straight, as the pace was strong and a number of other runners were disadvantaged by the tempo and tired late as the chance came for Jacobee to run on.
