Progressive pair look set to score again for master trainer at Happy Valley

Trendiful
11.45 Happy Valley
1pt winCountry Star
1.45 Happy Valley
2pts winRed Warrior
2.50 Happy Valley
2pts winChampion trainer John Size is a master of training horses in a way that enables them to continually climb up the class ladder in Hong Kong throughout their careers.

He sends out two superb examples at Happy Valley on Wednesday — Country Star in the Japan Racing Association Trophy (1.45) and Red Warrior in the concluding Tokyo Handicap (2.50). Zac Purton rides both.

Both are lightly raced types with big futures and they can continue their rise through the ranks in their respective assignments on this attractive eight-race Valley card.

Red Warrior is arguably the most exciting of the pair. He has won two of his three starts in Hong Kong and had previously chalked up three victories from four runs when trained in Britain by Jamie Osborne.

His last-time-out victory over course and distance gave a true glimpse of his potential. Drawn awkwardly in gate 12, he strode effortlessly around the outside and won, drawing away with plenty in hand.

This time he faces an acid test as he jumps up to Class 2 company after being given a hefty 8lb rise in the handicap, but I don't believe that will be enough to halt his progress and from a better draw in stall four, he rates a confident selection.

Country Star is a favourite of mine, having come to Hong Kong unraced but with a fascinating pedigree. He is a son of the much-travelled Starcraft out of a mare, who traces back to Imperial Beauty, who won a Prix de l’Abbaye when trained by John Hammond.

He, too, has made quick progress through the ranks, having won his last two over course and distance. The hat-trick is on the cards.

Earlier on the card, it could pay to stay loyal to Trendiful, who won last time on only his second start for successful rookie trainer Jimmy Ting. Now rejuvenated, he can follow up in the Fukushima Handicap (11.45).

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