Moore's Aussie import can improve on debut second to end losing run

Computer Patch
7.20 Sha Tin
2pts win

Chefano
8.25 Sha Tin
2pts win

Simple Elegant
9.00 Sha Tin
2pts win

This is a time for trainer John Moore to keep a steady hand on the tiller as he seeks to reverse his disappointing run of the last few weeks.

He has had only one winner from 35 runners in December, but true to form, he keeps producing decent chances.

Among his list of beaten horses were Beauty Generation and Aethero, big names both regarded as good things at the Hong Kong International Races meeting.

Such is the quality of the Moore stable, however, the bleak spell won’t last long and it is significant he has opted to run Computer Patch (7.20) in today’s Class Three 6f sprint handicap at Sha Tin only six days after the Australian three-year-old’s highly-promising Hong Kong debut when he made up enormous ground for a good second in a similar race.

Other relevant pointers are that Zac Purton has been booked this time, and also the son of Exceed And Excel has drawn well in five. He has plenty going for him.

Another Moore-trained runner of note is Chefano (8.25) in the Class Two 1m2f handicap in which the South African import can start to fulfil the staying potential displayed in nine local runs.

The winner of two races in his native country, the son of Silvano caught the eye when running on strongly for second in his last outing, and with Joao Moreira in the saddle, the gelding looks set to open his Hong Kong account.

Moreira, on 50 winners, is nine clear of Purton and clearly taking every opportunity in his attempt to regain the jockeys’ title. His performance at the HKIR was indicative of his determination in that race.

The current leader of the trainers’ championship is Ricky P F Yiu on 25 winners, and Simple Elegant (9.00) should give him another notch on the belt by taking the finale, the Class Three 7f handicap.

Grant Van Niekerk has formed a great relationship with Simple Elegant, partnering him to two wins from his last three starts.

Despite a step up in grade, and a 7lb rise in the ratings, he looks poised to win again, with badly-drawn Follow Me his main danger.

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