Hope not a requirement if backing Precision for victory
IT COULD pay to follow the fortunes of former French champion apprentice Alexis Badel, who has his card marked in eight of the nine races at Happy Valley on Wednesday.
The 36-year-old, who first arrived in Hong Kong 10 years ago, has had numerous big-race successes in his career, including Voyage Bubble in the BMW Hong Kong Derby as well as partnering legendary sprinter Wellington to many Group One triumphs.
With a total of 33 victories to his name, Badel has already surpassed last season’s score of 31 wins, and the Frenchman will look to further add to his tally with the likes of useful middle-distance performer The Auspicious in the nine-furlong Victoria Harbour Handicap (2.45pm).
Badel also gets the leg up again on consistent sprinter Storming Dragon, who looks handicapped to win division two of the six-furlong West Kowloon Handicap (3.50pm).
His most interesting ride, however, is when he renews his association aboard PRECISION HOPE for the David Hayes stable in the Kai Tak Handicap (12.10pm) over the extended mile.
The lightly raced son of Vespa caught the eye when a strong finishing fourth to The Azure over the course and distance last month, and his subsequent track work suggests that he is now in prime condition.
The Hayes stable will be looking for further success when they saddle ABSOLUTE AWAKENED in the Tourism Cup Handicap (1.40pm) over the extended mile.
The five-year-old galloper has improved plenty since transferred to his new yard, with a couple of eye-catching trials, suggesting he could prove much better than his present handicap mark.
POINTERS
Precision Hope e/w 12.10pm Happy Valley
Absolute Awakened e/w 1.40pm Happy Valley