Unique can help Wong get his Happy Valley career off to a Joyful start
Unique Joyful
Happy Valley 12.15
1pt each-way
Sichuan Boss
Happy Valley 1.45
0.5pt each-way
The latest round of Hong Kong's jockeys' title battle rolls into Happy Valley on Wednesday with Joao Moreira and Zac Purton primed for their usual strong books.
Early market signals suggest the big two could partner at least six favourites, but don't be surprised if a youngster having his first race rides at the Valley upstages them aboard Unique Joyful and Sichuan Boss.
Two months into a HK career which has already yielded seven Sha Tin wins, Victor Wong has been cleared to compete at the spectacular city venue and his 10lb claim can prove valuable on two horses who have run better than bare results suggest of late.
Unique Joyful has the Moreira-ridden I'm A Witness to beat in the Class 5 Cornwall Handicap at 12.15 and the topweight is a very worthy favourite on his first venture into the basement grade.
However, Unique Joyful has dropped back to his last winning mark and his latest run – where he chased a strong pace – suggests that he's still very capable of making a mark in an ordinary affair like this.
Sichuan Boss finished almost two lengths behind Sparkling Sword when the pair finished third and fifth over course and distance three weeks ago and the runner-up now has Moreira back aboard for the Lancashire Handicap at 1.45.
But Tony Millard's gelding meets his old rival on 12lb better terms once Wong's hefty claim is factored in and, with the jovial South African's team in fine form, Sichuan Boss looks to have a very sporting chance of emerging on top this time.
The rest of the card features some very open handicaps but recent trials suggest Purton can anticipate a very bold bid from Super Hoppy as he makes his debut for Danny Shum in the 2.45.
Moreira's presence aboard the speedy Dragon Pioneer for the first time in the 1.15 looks notable, while the progressive Split Of A Second in the 12.45 looks set to go close as he bids to make amends for a slightly unlucky second here last month.
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