David Hayes is chasing a last-minute Hong Kong Derby (2,000m) berth with China Win at Happy Valley on Wednesday night when he looks to triumph for the third consecutive time in the Class Three Lyttelton Handicap (1,800m).

China Win was withdrawn on the eve of his last start due to an irregular heart rhythm, which threw Derby plans into doubt for the 67-rated galloper.

The son of Super Seth has been working well since the scratching and has trialled eight days out from the upcoming run where he finished third, ridden conservatively by Zac Purton.

“It was a bit of a head scratcher that he had a heart fibrillation in the morning and then by the afternoon he was fine, but it was too late and he had to be scratched, which killed our Derby plan. We really would love him to win for the owners on Wednesday,” said Hayes.

At his two starts prior, he has recorded wins over 1,800m by two and a half lengths at Sha Tin over Audacious Pursuit, and a short head when stepping up to Class Three company at Happy Valley over Liveandletlive.

Hayes is buoyed by the barrier draw of three, where he will jump with Purton on board carrying 121lb.

“Perfect barrier, couldn’t have chosen a better one,” said Hayes.

“He needs to win – he’ll probably be the favourite. His track work this morning was really good, so good barrier, he’ll be hard to beat. Zac’s riding him, so after that we’ll just see if he’s in the Derby or not in the Derby.”

Currently sitting third on the championship ladder beside Mark Newnham on 36 wins, three behind leader Caspar Fownes on 39, Hayes has a strong hand on Wednesday night.

Bienvenue also steps out with Purton on board and looks ready to win when he contests the Class Three Craigengower Cricket Club Challenge Cup (1,200m).

Beaten three quarters of a length by Outgate last start at the track and distance when breaking from barrier eleven, Hayes is looking forward to seeing him jump from barrier one on Wednesday.

“He was a little bit unlucky last start. With Zac on, they should get beautiful runs from there. I’m very happy, he’ll be very competitive,” Hayes said.

Metro Power will have the services of James Orman once again, this time on the seven-day backup in the first section of the Class Three Bonham Handicap (1,200m). He tracked the speed and kept on well for second to Amazing Kid last week.

“He’s on the quick back up, probably ran a career best the other day. I think he’ll run a similar race. He’s got great gate speed, he’ll make his own luck and he’ll be there for a long time,” said Hayes.

Harry Bentley rides for Hayes in both sections of the Class Four Hatton Handicap (1,650m).

Stellar Swift steps up in trip for the first time this season when he contests the first section, after racing at 1,400m for his previous three starts.

“He sends all the messages that he needs a mile. He’s a Happy Valley winner and looking forward to seeing him at the distance,” said Hayes.

Dashing Maurison has been improving with the step up in distance and will race at the city circuit for just the second time in the second section.

“I reckon he will just keep getting better with racing. I think he’ll end up a good Happy Valley horse, but he’ll probably need the experience,” Hayes said.

Supreme Feeling, Starry Show and Leaping Star round out Hayes’ chances at the city circuit.