Our Hong Kong expert likes the chances of an unbeaten sprinter

Everyone’s Elite
11.45 Happy Valley
2pts win

Farshad
2.15 Happy Valley
2pts win

Californiadeepshot
2.50 Happy Valley
2pts win

Lightning can strike twice for promising Californiadeepshot when the unbeaten three-year-old contests an intriguing Class 3 6f handicap sprint (2.50), the finale on Wednesday’s card at Happy Valley.

The Tony Cruz-trained runner was highly impressive when making all under Karis Teetan over course and distance on his Hong Kong debut two weeks ago, and there is every indication he can follow up against tougher opposition.

For the second successive start, he must contend with the wide draw in gate 12, but if he displays the early speed seen last time it will not hinder his chances. Beauty Spark, with Zac Purton back in the saddle, is the danger.

In Australia, Californiadeepshot was unbeaten in two starts on the provincial circuit for Peter and Paul Snowden and he looks a smart purchase for the Cruz stable.

Jockey bookings are important in Hong Kong, particularly when involving Purton and his arch rival Joao Moreira, and the latter’s engagement for two new mounts at this fixture sparks special interest.

For the first time, Moreira will partner the Manfred Man-trained Everyone’s Elite, a nine-start maiden, who looks the one to beat in a Class 4 1½m handicap (11.45).

The six-year-old has been placed in all four starts this season, and with an inside draw he is ready to open his account.

The other Moreira ride to note is German import Farshad, who has an outstanding chance in the Class 3 1½m handicap (2.15).

The six-year-old was a Listed winner over 1m at Deauville and has dropped 19lb in the handicap since his arrival in Hong Kong two years ago.

His last run was solid when he was beaten only a neck over course and distance three weeks ago. A repeat here would see him finally oblige in Hong Kong.

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