Purton can make winning return to Hong Kong after Melbourne Cup diversion

Actuariat
11.15 Happy Valley
2pts winBellagio
12.15 Happy Valley
1pt winLittle Bird
1.15 Happy Valley
1pt win

Champion jockey Zac Purton, who rode the fourth home in the Melbourne Cup on Tuesday, can head straight into the winner’s enclosure on his first ride back at this intriguing Happy Valley meeting.

Purton, who took the ‘red eye’ to Hong Kong overnight, gave his followers a great run for their money when partnering the Chris Waller-trained Finche in the Cup, and he also rode a winner for the trainer on the undercard.

Following that little diversion, it is back to business and Actuariat seems a ready-made winner for the jockey in the opening 5f Kam Shan Handicap (11.15).

The Paul O’Sullivan-trained speedster is a specialist over this course and distance. His only two wins in 34 starts in Hong Kong have been at Happy Valley over this trip, and his most recent outing was very encouraging.

He finished fourth, beaten two and a half lengths, over six furlongs. But back at his favoured distance and the fact he is still well handicapped suggests he can win again.

Trainer Michael Freedman is handing in his licence and returning to Australia after racing at the weekend, but Bellagio could send him on his way with a welcome winner in the Shek Pik Handicap (12.15) over 1m½f.

Douglas Whyte, a former multiple champion rider, has recently trialled Bellagio, who has been blotting his copy book by hanging when turning for home. Despite this, he has recorded decent efforts over shorter trips.

Whyte believes the step up in distance will be of assistance and he looks a value bet.

Another jockey to follow is Grant Van Niekerk, who partners Little Bird for Ricky Yiu in the The American Club Challenge Cup (1.15).

Little Bird’s most recent run when finishing second over this 6f trip was promising and he should be followed again.

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