Local trainer Asogan Thangaraja has had a relatively quiet start to the season after posting a personal best 33 winners last year striking at 14%. Seven-year-old mare FLAMING PHOENIX has performed well in four runs for the camp since November and is a chance to break an eighteen-month drought in the 1400m Class 5B (Race 1). Descending to a career low rating of 27 points, she comes off three minor placings in a row and drops back to the “B” division of Class 5. Another Ipoh trainer, William Looi will be represented by a couple of veteran campaigners at ten years of age this Sunday in the form of SALAMENCE in Race 2 (1400m Class 5A) and BIONICS engaged in Race 4 (1100m Class 5B). SALAMENCE has not scored since winning at his first couple of Malaysian runs back in March last year when prepared by Richard Lim and recent form suggests he is nearing a win. The gelding has started seven times recording three placings for the Looi stable and the former Class 2 performer is a definite watch, fifth start back in his grade. BIONICS has won three times from six attempts at the track and distance and like his stable mate, is also searching for his first success since March last year. The Hinchinbrook gelding has also descended to a career low of 26 points and looks well weighted with the 54.5kg. One horse to watch here is LAXON, which resumes and has been working well at the track in recent weeks. The five-year-old races best when freshened and may provide the value. From the trial session conducted at the track here on Tuesday morning, GOLDEN SHOW and SILVER JOY both performed well recording sub-minute performances for the their respective 1000m trial wins on the sand. Both runners clashed in a 1200m contest on January 4 with GOLDEN SHOW finishing 3rd and SILVER JOY 4th, a further 1.5L behind in the race won by Legend Of The Sun. The rematch occurs in the 1400m Class 5B contest (Race 8) as they go up against recent winner, ELECTRONIC BOOM who possesses a good record over the 1400m trip. Former Macau galloper FLAWLESS, engaged in Race 9, created an immediate impact on the local circuit when scoring by eight lengths in a Class 3 on his Malaysian debut back in November 2024 before following up with further success in a Supreme B contest for trainer Ricky Choi. The horse was known as Revue back then before a change in name and ownership developed early last year and the horse was transferred to Wayne Lim for his 2025 campaign. Since then, the seven-year-old has performed admirably without winning against the high graded opposition contested in Selangor and despite a couple of unsuccessful visits to Ipoh recently, the Delago Deluxe gelding may find his niche back in Class 4. His former stable mate, WHO LOVE TO DANCE is coming off a recent 2nd here two starts back will be looking to break his Malaysian duck. The locally trained BRANDENBURG is racing well since joining the Khor Peng Hwa stable chalking up a 5.25L win over this track and journey on December 28 prior to his last start defeat.

Sean Tarry and Craig Zackey look primed to run the numbers again when Turffontein’s Standside track hosts a competitive nine-race programme on Sunday, 1 February – and from a betting perspective, the pair are hard to oppose for multiple strikes. Fresh off combining to land last Tuesday’s Vaal Classic opener, Tarry can set the tone early in Race 1 over 1160m with Trail Runner, a filly whose form stands out on this card. The lightly raced daughter of Lancaster Bomber has finished second twice in her last three starts, including a bold runners-up effort over course and distance against the boys five weeks ago. Blinkers went on that day and are retained, while the winner has since franked the form by running a close third on handicap debut behind a smart three-year-old. That line is the strongest on offer, and Trail Runner looks ideally placed to finally shed her maiden tag under Keagan de Melo. A similar profile applies to Space Mission in Race 2 over 1160m. Well-related and consistent without winning, the Willow Magic gelding drops back sharply in trip after competing up to 1700m. First-time blinkers could be the catalyst, and with Zackey back aboard, this looks a calculated move by Tarry to strike while the conditions suit. Zackey’s dominance in the saddle remains a major storyline. His two-winner haul at the last midweek Highveld meeting pushed his season tally to an imposing 137, opening up a healthy 29-win gap over Richard Fourie (108). That buffer could grow further courtesy of Paris Fun in Race 7 over 1600m for Tony Peter. The improving Futura filly caught the eye when charging home for second under 61kg on her return from a three-month break. She was beaten just 0.50 lengths over 1400m and now steps up in trip with fitness assured, an unchanged mark, and a much friendlier 57.5kg on her back – all strong positives. The Tarry-Zackey combination resurfaces in the Race 9 finale with progressive Tintin, whose wide-margin last-start victory over dual subsequent winner Quickfreeze marked him as a horse on the up. That said, this is no gimme. Class-dropper Chieftain’s Shield brings stronger exposed form into the 1400m contest, suggesting a straight win bet may be risky. The value play looks to be boxed Swinger and Exacta bets, covering the obvious pair in what should be a competitive closer. Clive Robinson

Despite a stellar record with multiple Group 1 wins, See It Again has sometimes disappointed, including recent issues with the starting stalls. A change of routine, climate, and trainer to Justin Snaith’s Phillippi yard has revitalized him. He has run two solid races, finishing close up but unlucky in both.

Andrew Fortune takes the ride, known for getting the best from his mounts. With stablemate Okavango likely to set the pace, See It Again could have a clear run from a wide draw in the 11-horse Group 1 WSB Met on 31 January, aiming for a second Group 1 victory.

Other notable runners include last year’s Met winner Eight On Eighteen, who should improve after a five-month break, and The Real Prince, peaking for trainer Dean Kannemeyer. Gladatorian, despite a disappointing King’s Plate, remains dangerous with his proven turn of foot, while Garrix and The Equator could upset if favorites falter.

The supporting feature is the Group 1 Maine Chance Farms Majorca Stakes, where Double Grand Slam seeks redemption after a hot defeat in the Paddock Stakes. Oisin Murphy rides, while Mon Petit Cherie and Quickstepgal, trained by Tienie Prinsloo, are expected to challenge over the mile. Asiye Phambili, in strong form, completes a competitive lineup.

If See It Again repeats his best form, he could overshadow the field, while Fortune could claim both Group 1 races on the day.

The advantage lies with championship leader Mark Newnham as the Four-Year-Old Classic Series gets underway with Sunday’s (1 February) HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m) at Sha Tin. The Australian handler, who currently holds a narrow one-win lead at the top of the trainers’ standings, goes into the weekend’s feature with four of the 14 runners prepared in his yard. Newnham, who has been steadily arming his stable with young talent throughout his almost three-year stay in the city, said stockpiling exciting prospects was part of his broader strategy, an approach that has come to fruition during a breakout campaign. “I think you’ve got to have a plan for your season, and you’ve got to have a plan for the horses you buy,” said Newnham, who has accumulated 33 wins so far in 2025/26. “The Four-Year-Old Classic Series is very popular with Hong Kong owners. So you’ve got to buy horses with that in mind. “We’ve been lucky enough to have a good group of horses that I’ve had from the start, that have made the race.” Newnham will be represented by Invincible Ibis, who will be ridden by Hugh Bowman, Crimson Flash (Andrea Atzeni), Infinite Resolve (Alexis Badel) and Winfield (Lyle Hewitson) in the Four-Year-Old Classic Series opener, the race that brought his first major Hong Kong success, when My Wish prevailed by a neck last season. That gifted galloper would go on to register a second place in the second leg of the Series, the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m), before going down by the narrowest of margins to Cap Ferrat in the showpiece HK$26 million BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m). In this year’s renewal, Invincible Ibis, who drew gate 11, is expected to be one of the market leaders when betting opens. With four wins on the spin, the storming finisher arrives as the form horse in the field. In each of his four wins, the Hellbent gelding has rallied late to claim victory. Newnham could have a telling influence on the pace the race is run at: in addition to Invincible Ibis’ typical late closing, Crimson Flash, drawn seven, has raced on-pace in each of his three wins so far, Infinite Resolve (gate three) parked midfield in his sole Hong Kong win to date, while Brazilian import Winfield (gate eight) dismantled a Group 1 field in his last win on home soil, dominating from the front in the G1 Jockey Club de Sao Paulo (2000m) to score by over five lengths easing down. While Newnham acknowledged the various pace options he had at his disposal, he revealed there was no grand strategy in place for Sunday. “You’ve got to give every horse their best chance (of winning),” Newnham said. “But for different horses, how the race unfolds will be better-suited if there’s more pace, less pace, and if they’re coming from back in the field on the day, how the track’s playing … But you’ve still got to ride the horse to its strengths. “We’ve got a couple of on-pacers and a couple of back-markers. So hopefully it works out for one of them.” Newnham’s runners are set to meet Sagacious Life, Little Paradise, Beauty Bolt, Patch Of Cosmo, Public Attention, Akashvani, Top Dragon, Circuit Grand Slam, Shanwah and Windlord in what is expected to be one of the most compelling runnings of the Hong Kong Classic Mile in recent years. Sunday’s (1 February) 11-race fixture at Sha Tin starts at 12.30pm with the Class 4 Clear Water Bay Handicap (1000m). The HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m) jumps at 4.05pm. By Paul Ryding

It is back to turf racing at Fairview on Friday, with eight interesting races on the card. There are two attractive feature races, and Roman Agent should go close to winning one of them. He competes in Race 7, the Fairview Merchants over 1200m. This four-year-old gelding has won three of his 19 starts and has been particularly consistent for trainer Kelly Mitchley. He won on stable debut over this course and distance in October, beating the highly rated Pop Chart. His three subsequent runs, all on the Polytrack, were good efforts without managing another victory. Current rider Muzi Yeni has partnered the Vercingetorix gelding three times for a second and a third-place finish. He receives 9.5kg from main rival Mercantour, which could be telling in the closing stages. Mercantour won all three legs of the recent WSB Polytrack Challenge before running unplaced at Turffontein. The Var gelding has also won on the turf and will not be troubled by this course and distance, so he remains a threat. In the other feature race on the card, the Alan Greeff-trained Zinovi can bounce back and take out Race 5, the Fairview 1600m. This five-year-old gelding has won two of his five starts for Greeff, with both victories coming over this course and distance. Interestingly, jockey Louie Mxothwa takes the ride on the Heavenly Blue gelding, and the pair were impressive when scoring together back in August. Stable jockey Richard Fourie partners stable companion Joker Man, who has run well on the Polytrack in both starts for his new yard. Joker Man has won five times on the turf, so he is clearly a danger. Another serious threat is Lanciafiamme, representing the in-form Cliffie Miller yard. The Fire Away gelding has been consistent all season in feature races and deserves a winning turn. He receives 10kg from Zinovi. Trainer Zietsman Oosthuizen could win the last race with Are You Sure, who makes her debut for the yard. She has only won one of her 12 starts so far but is often competitive and could score in this low-level handicap. Clive Robinson

By Scott Bailey The Cape Town Met is always a race that asks the same question in a different accent: class or craft? Speed or patience. Saturday’s Grade 1 World Sports Betting Cape Town Met (2000m) is worth R5 million, and it reads like a greatest-hits list of recent big-race winners, hard-luck stories and horses still learning how good they might be. The headline is simple — the horses arriving off winning form are not the only ones with claims but there is a clear thread: the recent winners are bringing confidence, and their wins have come in races that matter. The freshest winner in the race is The Real Prince, who arrived on the Met scene the old-fashioned way by winning the right race at the right track. His nail-biting success in the King’s Plate over 1600m at Kenilworth on 10 January was the kind of result that makes a horse instantly more interesting at 2000m. He’s already proven he can win under pressure, he can handle Kenilworth, and he’s got the kind of late composure you want when a Met turns into a tactical chess match from the 600m. That Plate win is also a form magnet: several of Saturday’s rivals were behind him there, and the Met now becomes the rematch with an extra 400m to expose stamina, positioning and decision-making. If The Real Prince brings the momentum, Eight On Eighteen brings the profile. He’s the horse in this field who has already been dominant and unbeaten at the Kenilworth 2000m distance, smashing a Greyville feature (the Daily News 2000) by 3.8 lengths back in May, and he hasn’t exactly been hiding in the interim he ran second in the Durban July over 2200m, a run that reads well in any form guide. On paper, that’s the most “Met-shaped” résumé in the line-up: proven at the trip, proven in elite company, and partnered by a rider who understands big-race rhythm. He doesn’t need to improve as much as some of these, he just needs the race to suit. Then there’s Okavango, a horse who has quietly built the sort of form that punters love because it feels honest. He won the 1800m Premier Trophy at Kenilworth on 10 January from the front not stealing it, winning it and that matters because the Met can be won by a horse that controls the tempo if the field lets him. The 1800m-to-2000m progression is classic, and he comes here with the confidence of a recent win at the venue, which is never a small thing when Kenilworth is asking questions late in the day. The plot twist horse is Gladatorian, because his recent winning form is not what you’d call orthodox. He’s been winning — the latest a fast 1200m feature at Greyville in November — and it takes a brave punter to back sprint form into a 2000m Group 1 without a strong belief in class and versatility. But his record tells you this isn’t a one-note animal. He has also won at 1800m, and his overall strike-rate says he knows where the line is. If the race becomes messy and the main hopes start searching for a passage, the tough, adaptable horse can suddenly look very appealing. The horse who is a winner on the page but still a question at Met level is Cosmic Speed. His last win is some time ago, but he has been competitive in the right races, and his profile suggests there’s a ceiling still to be found. The warning sign is that he’s stepping into a Grade 1 over 2000m without having ticked that box in public. The counterpoint is that he’s trained by a stable that knows how to set one for a day, and he’s partnered by a jockey who rides Kenilworth like he owns the map. And sitting in the shadows is Sail The Seas, who hasn’t won recently but has been consistently close enough in the right races to make you believe he isn’t far away. He was second to Eight On Eighteen over 2000m earlier in the year, and his recent Kenilworth runs keep him in the conversation. He’s the type that can drift in betting and then suddenly appear on your screen at the 200m when the race opens. That’s what makes this Met such a good one: the recent winners bring confidence and form, but the race itself promises complexity. The Real Prince has proven he can win a Kenilworth war; Eight On Eighteen has the 2000m authority; Okavango has the map advantage; Gladatorian has the wildcard profile. And behind them sit horses who don’t need to dominate the narrative early to win it late.  

Midweek racing at the Vaal rarely lacks betting angles and Thursday’s eight-race Classic track card is no exception. With value scattered through the programme, the smart play may be to follow the country’s form jockey Craig Zackey, who arrives at the Vereeniging-based circuit with a book of rides that demands close attention. Zackey has already ridden 132 winners this season (at the time of writing) and seems to be cruising to a maiden National Jockeys’ Championship title. His 26-win buffer over Richard Fourie (106) underlines the consistency, but it’s the quality of his mounts that continues to separate him from the pack. He has six rides on the card and at least three seem capable of rewarding supporters. His afternoon gets interesting early in Race 3 over 1000m with Perfect Sky, a debutante daughter of Vercingetorix from Sean Tarry’s in-form stable. She’s bred to be smart and the stable doesn’t waste bullets. This is, however, no soft introduction as she takes on experienced male opposition over a sharp trip. Any market confidence would be significant, though she may be one for the notebook rather than a maximum bet on debut. The first serious betting opportunity comes up in Race 4, also over 1000m, with Stoneywood. Since gelding, Lucky Houdalakis’ charge has found his groove, finishing second in back-to-back starts, both with Zackey aboard. Those efforts suggest he’s knocking loudly on the door and he won’t need to improve much on either effort to open his account. With natural progression, this looks his race to lose. Zackey then links up with Joe Soma’s intriguing runner Gimmeachoice in Race 6 over 1800m. Soma makes the trip south from his Turffontein base with just one horse — a move that usually speaks volumes — and Gimmeachoice appears poised to strike. The five-year-old Gimmethegreenlight gelding ran a cracker on his return from a three-month layoff, finishing second after a long, sustained duel with re-opposing The Playboy Bomber. He’ll be sharper for that encouraging comeback outing and meets that rival on 0.5kg better terms. Everything points to a peak run. Zackey could round off a profitable day in Race 7 over 1600m aboard class-dropper Agoge, another well-bred Houdalakis inmate whose profile suggests his limit is far from being reached. A maiden winner over this course and distance two starts back, Agoge was thrust into the deep end of a three-year-old Grade 3 over 1400m – a trip and test that probably found him out at this stage of his career. Back in calmer waters and over a more suitable trip, the Gimmethegreenlight gelding looks solid value and a horse worth sticking with as his education continues. The Vaal Classic track can be unforgiving, but with form, fitness and jockeyship all aligning, Zackey has the ammunition to extend his championship lead and give punters a tidy midweek return if they play it right. Clive Robinson

Punters face a tricky poly card next Wednesday, with the market likely the best guide.

In the opener, Snow Queen underperformed on her KZN debut but could bounce back, while Predator’s Surprise and Nebulous are both capable of improvement. Harpa, Calli Bullet, and Miss Danon are the main players in race two, with each showing promise in recent runs.

Ms Galore tackles males in the first Pick 6 leg and looks set for a big run, with Desert Dog and poly debutant Light The Fire also of interest. The consistent The Mask carries a big weight but receives 4kg relief and looks tough to beat in race four, while Master Silvano and Professor Lupin could threaten.

Rafiki, The Gliding Fish, Ultra Quick, and Lou The Legend headline the fifth, with Dapper, Prince Of Troy, Parmenion, and Charlie Croker also worth attention. In race seven, Magic Surprise and Grand Appeal are down in class and competitive, while Rafa’s Boy, Ibutho, Fate Of Fortune, and Winter Waves all have claims.

Austrian Beauty could finish the day strongly, with Grand Force, Time In Paris, and Trafalgar Square also capable in the closing open handicap.

Moments after Ka Ying Rising forged into Hong Kong racing history with a record-equalling win in the HK$13 million G1 Centenary Sprint Cup (1200m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (25 January), David Hayes predicted the world’s best sprinter could potentially break Sha Tin’s 1400m course record next month. Reacting to Ka Ying Rising’s effort to post a 17th consecutive victory to match the winning streak of Silent Witness from 2002 to 2005, Hayes believes the superstar galloper can threaten Sha Tin’s 1400m record of 1m 19.92s – jointly held by Encouraging and Packing Hermod – when he contests the HK$13 million G1 Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (1400m) on 22 February. “Last year, he worked a bit and won it (Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup), and I think he’s a stronger, better horse this year,” Hayes said. “I think he will handle the 1400m beautifully. I’m really excited for the next race. It’s another dimension for him. “Last year, he nearly broke the course record at 1400m, and I think if the conditions are right, he can go close again.” Ridden by Karis Teetan in last year’s Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup in the absence of regular rider Zac Purton, who was injured, Ka Ying Rising clocked 1m 20.33s. Ka Ying Rising today clocked 1m 07.66s – outside his own 1200m Sha Tin turf track record of 1m 07.20s – after being allowed to coast to the line in defeating Helios Express by one-and-a quarter lengths with Fast Network a further two lengths back. Moderately away at the start, Ka Ying Rising quickly mustered speed to lead before Matthew Chadwick drove Beauty Waves to the front. Aware of Luke Ferraris and Lucky With You lurking to his outside, Purton ensured Ka Ying Rising had clear running before unleashing the gelding from the 300m. Exploding clear, and with the race at his mercy with a four-length lead, Purton eased up noticeably over the final 200m, clocking a modest 11.47s. “The winning margin wasn’t probably the greatest, but it’s probably the most Zac has ever eased him down,” Hayes said. “So, he had a very easy last 200 metres and he dominated as the market suggested he would. Just nice to see him do it.” Ka Ying Rising improved his record to 18 wins from 20 starts and is unbeaten since the 12 February, 2024 with career prizemoney of HK$129.8 million. Celebrating his fourth win in the race after victories with Aerovelocity (2016), Lucky Sweynesse (2023) and Ka Ying Rising last season, Purton said: “What can I say? We’ve said it all with the horse. “I just had to make sure my bloke was in a rhythm. I’m surprised he run the time he run because it didn’t feel like he ran that quick sort of mid-early in the race. Yeah, he just different class. “I never thought I would see it (a record-equalling 17th win in a row), to be honest. It’s very, very rare what Silent Witness did and what Ka Ying has been able to do so far – and let’s hope he can keep going on with it.” “After Silent Witness, I don’t think anyone thought they would ever see it again. Fortunately for us who are involved with the horse, he’s equalled him and can hopefully put his own benchmark. “It’s pretty nice when you look at the big screen and you’re a long way in front, I can tell you. A race is a race. You’ve still got to go out and do it and hopefully he can hold his form, which we will expect he will. “He’s got a big race next time, obviously he goes up in distance but he’s up for it.” Summing up the mood of the six beaten jockeys, Helios Express’ rider Hugh Bowman said: “Another sound, consistent performance. The slower pace didn’t suit, neither does the fast pace when you’re chasing that horse.” The Centenary Sprint Cup was the first leg of the Hong Kong Speed Series, which also includes the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup and the HK$24 million G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m) on 26 April. A HK$5 million bonus is on offer to the winner of all three legs. Hong Kong racing continues at Happy Valley on Wednesday (28 January). By Leo Schlink

Just about anything can happen at the Vaal on Tuesday. There are decent sized fields in the nine-race programme and most of the races appear wide open so catching a TAB exotic bet could be quite rewarding. Maria La Gorda and two Tony Peter charges – Caroline Island and Blindfire – appeal look worth following. Alec Laird has a few decent looking sorts running on the day. Maria La Gorda, who has always been beaten for speed in sprints, is now going a bit of ground and she could make dramatic improvement in Race 2, a Maiden Plate for fillies and mares over 1450m. She is not meeting a strong field. Maria La Gorda is by Cape Guineas winner Act Of War out of Caya Coco, who is related to Cape Met winner Martial Eagle, and should go further than 1450m. But importantly, her form is decent, she was fourth to Vamanos in her penultimate start and there have been numerous winners to come out of that race. Laird has two promising three-year-old males, Texas Missile and One More Star, in Race 4, a Middle Stakes over 2000m, and after winning over the same distance coming back from a rest, Texas Missile can dominate now stripping fitter. Caroline Island, who lines up in Race 5 over 1000m, showed promise as a youngster but must have had a setback as she had been off almost a year. Racing off a merit rating of 88 her comeback was in an ultra-competitive race, but she caught the eye staying on in fourth against males even though capable of speeding along in front. It is a good sign that she is backed up just 10 days later and back against her sex in this Divided Handicap where she receives weight from all she could be the one to catch. Blindfire could be easy to back in Race 7, a MR 66 Handicap over 1000m. She finished 10^th in her last start, and it has been a while since her only win. But amid all the other runs, in her two races over the course and distance, she was a different horse. She flew at the finish when the line came in time for Miss Munroe in October and in her penultimate start, she was beaten in a close call behind Deal Maker who runs in a stronger race just prior. In fact, Blindfire takes a sizable drop-in class overall. Clive Robinson

Video Stars Race 2 – 1 LUCKY EIGHT His last-start fifth carried hidden merit after he was urged early to settle on the speed but failed to find cover throughout, enduring a tough run. Despite the unfavourable trip, he stuck on gamely to finish fifth in a strongly run race. Dropping to Class 4 this week, where he boasts a perfect two-from-two record, he is expected to show sharp improvement. Race 7 – 11 PROUD BOX Settling a touch too close to the speed in a fast-run race last start, it was no surprise to see him battle away in the straight, beaten 2.5 lengths into sixth over this track and distance. The sectional data points to an above-average performance, and the form has since been franked with eighth placegetter WIN SPEED, who endured a similar run, performing well at his subsequent start. Sectional Stars Race 1 – 2 SPARKLING FELLOW Held up between the 300m and the 200m last time out, he flashed home late to finish fourth over this course and distance. With a clearer passage, a top-three finish was well within reach. Dropping to Class 4 this week, he looks one to follow against more manageable rivals. Race 9 – 4 PATCH OF STARS Forced to settle off the speed from a wide draw last start, he unleashed a sustained run in the straight to finish fourth over this track and distance. Considering the slow tempo, the effort was better than it reads on paper, and with a more economical run, he can make amends.

Eleven Group 1 winners will battle for riches at Meydan’s superb ‘Fashion Friday’ meeting this weekend. The Longines-sponsored nine-race card stages two Thoroughbred Group 1 races, including the G1 Al Maktoum Challenge, worth AED3,680,000, offering guaranteed entry to the winner for the $12million Dubai World Cup on 28 March. It features the last two winners Walk Of Stars and Kabirkhan, both trained by Bhupat Seemar, who has six of the nine runners. “Walk Of Stars had a lot of weight to give away first time out, against horses who were race fit,” Seemar said of the gelding’s fourth in the Listed Entisar in December. “He’s fit and off level weights so hopefully he’s going to give a good showing.” “Kabirkhan kind of fluffed the start on his first run for us,” he continued. “He was drawn on the inside, broke slow and got a lot of kickback. We’ve got blinkers on him now as he’s an older horse so he’s getting a bit clever, but he’s still got a world of talent.” Seemar also trains Artorius for owners Juddmonte, who finished second to Heart Of Honor in the Listed Entisar last time out. “Artorius was a very good horse in the States, but then his form sort of tapered off a little bit,” he said. “He came over last year and kept on improving. Ten furlongs [2000metres]  is his true distance and last time he carried a kilo extra than the winner. I think he’ll improve again and I’m hoping for a very good run.” Imperial Emperor was the impressive winner of the G2 Al Maktoum Mile last time out and steps back up in trip here. “Imperial Emperor was second in this race last year but I think he’s a better horse now,” said Seemar. Of 2024 Listed Al Bastakiya winner Killer Collect, he added: “Killer Collect missed the break last time and got kickback which he didn’t like at all. He’s got blinkers this time and hopefully the jockey will be aggressive out of the gate and get him up there.” Taking on the Seemar team is Heart Of Honor, who beat four of Friday’s rivals last time with a late run to secure victory in the Entisar. “We know the style in which he’s going to race, it’s ‘win ugly’,” said trainer Jamie Osborne. “He certainly conserves energy on the way round, but that’s probably one of the factors which makes him such a strong stayer. “As long as they go hard and turn it into a proper end to end, stamina-requiring race, then he’ll be coming into his own.” Exciting Opera Ballo goes for Jebel Hatta Glory The G1 Jebel Hatta [presented by Longines], race seven, looks to revolve around Opera Ballo, who was hugely taking when winning the G2 Rashidiya in December. Taking him on is stablemate Nations Pride, a four-time G1 winner, as well as G1 Canadian International winner Silawi, for trainer Hamad Al Jehani. “Opera Ballo put up a good performance in the Al Rashidiya, when he picked up some valuable experience of racing at Meydan,” said trainer Charlie Appleby. “He goes into the race in great order and this is the logical next test for him. It is a small field, but everyone in there deserves respect. “I feel that Nations Pride has come forward for his last run as his work since has been a bit sharper. He has plenty of experience under his belt and conditions are there to suit. He is a rock-solid horse and I’m sure he will put up another strong effort.” Midak, making his first start for trainer Ian Williams and owner Fitri Hay, looks a fascinating recruit having won a Group 3 in France last May, while last year’s third Holloway Boy and Charlie Fellowes’ Vafortino complete the line-up. Rematch in the Fort The G2 Al Fahidi Fort, race three, over 1400metres on turf, features a rematch between the last two winners; Mysterious Night, successful in 2024 and Marbaan, who beat him last year. Trained by Michael Costa, Marbaan was third behind Mysterious Night in the Listed Business Bay Challenge in December, but the trainer issued an upbeat bulletin. “It’s not often you get to say this in Dubai, but he didn’t appreciate the soft ground last start,” he said. “It was still his best performance on rain-affected ground and we expect to see him properly let down back on the good going this week.” Appleby said: “Mysterious Night came out of the Business Bay Challenge in good order and has plenty of experience over this course and trip. It is a big field, but I am not too concerned with being drawn out in stall 10. He is entitled to come on for his first run of the season, which should hopefully put him bang there at the finish.” Witness Stand, winner of the G2 Lennox Stakes at Goodwood in July, makes his local debut for trainers Dr Richard Newland and Jamie Insole. “He’s a really solid Group 2 horse,” said Insole. “We tried him over six furlongs [1200metres] which didn’t really work, so seven furlongs round a bend should be his conditions here, and we may even try stepping him up to a mile. “He looks fresh and well and he’s still got his summer coat, so we’re looking forward to a big run on Friday night.” Sprinters Clash Again in Al Shindagha The G3 Al Shindagha Sprint, race four, over 1200metres on dirt, is a fascinating affair, with G3 Dubawi Stakes winner El Nasseeb clashing again with second, third and fourth Mufasa, Colour Up and Dark Saffron. Having his third run in this race, Colour Up represents Doug Watson, who gave an upbeat bulletin about the eight-year-old. “Colour Up needs something in front of him when he breaks,” he said. “He just lost his way early last time and got a little detached and it took him a while to get in the race. He’s had a really good year – his coat’s been perfect all year whereas usually it’s in and out. “I’d love to see him win one of these, as he doesn’t miss a cheque often, but El Nasseeb will be tough to beat.” Seemar, who won this race 12 months ago with Tuz, runs three, including impressive last out handicap winner Drew’s Gold. “He carried 62 kilos, clocked a good time, and there’s no reason why he shouldn’t do it again,” he said. “But we’re stepping up in class, so we’ll find out how he really stacks up.” Mufasa carries the same silks of RRR Racing and has stable jockey Tadhg O’Shea on board. “He’s getting closer!” said Seemar. “He was a good second last time. He does have a good kick but we’ll let Tadhg decide where to ride him and see how it pans out when the gates open.” Colts Compete for Kentucky Points The G3 UAE 2000 Guineas has attracted a strong field of 16, including Appleby’s Devon Island, winner of both his Meydan starts to date. “Devon Island is unbeaten since switching to dirt, although this is a step up in class against several horses with a similar profile to him,” said the Godolphin handler. “He has improved mentally as much as physically with each run, and we will be slightly wiser regarding what the future holds after this.” Brotherly Love has finished behind Devon Island twice but did coast away for his own four-length maiden win two weeks’ ago, beating the reopposing Yamdeek. “Originally we thought we’d leave him until the Road To Kentucky Derby [formerly Al Bastakiya] but he looks great and he’s been training great,” said trainer Osborne. “A mile is the inner edge of how far he can go; the 1900metres is going to be so much better for him. Saffie [Osborne, jockey] is of the opinion that he’s so much sharper in the blinkers that he’ll be able to sit a little closer to them, and Devon Island in particular.” Bhupat Seemar trainer trains four in here, including Six Speed, winner of the Guineas trial last time out. “He showed some grit last time,” he said of the Not This Time colt. “He went up there with the pace and then sat back a little and took some kickback, then when the opening came he shot clear. He should be able to get the mile well.” Seemar also runs Lino Padrino, an impressive maiden winner before fluffing his lines last time out. “We have high hopes for Lino Padrino,” he said.  “We’ve done some work with him at the gates as he was slowly away last time, so hoping for a better break. Tadhg chose him as he’s a horse with a lot of talent.” Seemar’s other two Guineas runners are new to the stable, one from the US and one from Ireland. “Rammas was an impressive winner at Gulfstream,” he said. “He’s still in quarantine, but we worked him on Sunday and he impressed us. I think he has a good future but we just don’t know him too well yet. “Senator Of State was a winner at Dundalk on his last start who has just come over and he’s running on the dirt for the first time, so it’s going to be a little bit different for him.” Argentine-bred Legalaized, trained by Musabbeh Al Mheri, ran second to Six Speed in the trial, despite conceding weight and a wide draw in 14. “I thought he did a good job in the trial,” said jockey James Doyle. “We were drawn widest of all and we covered a lot of extra ground and he just got a little tired late on. “The extra furlong is certainly a question mark, but if he can get a bit more of an economical trip then hopefully he can run a very good race.” The UAE 2000 Guineas is now part of the ‘Road To The Kentucky Derby’ with points going to the first five home, including 20 for the winner. West Acre out to Defend Crown The G2 Blue Point Sprint [presented by Longines], race five, has its defending champion in West Acre, winner 12 months ago for British trainer George Scott. The four-year-old was last seen finishing second to the reopposing Spartan Arrow at Dundalk in October. “We missed his intended first start in Dubai in December due to the weather,” so he’s coming in fresh,” said Scott. “He’s a horse who clearly enjoys this set of circumstances and I’ve been particularly happy with the way he’s been training.” West Acre’s ten rivals include Cover Up, winner of the Listed Dubai Dash over this track and trip in December. “Cover Up won in great style on Festive Friday and has done really well since that race,” said co-trainer Ed Crisford. “He’s a bigger and stronger horse this year. Although it’s another step up and more competitive, he should be right there in the mix.” Crisford runs Meydaan in the G3 Al Khail Trophy, the final race on the Longines-sponsored card. “Meydaan is in super form since his win a few weeks ago,” he said. “He goes into the Al Khail over the same trip, same track, and we’re very happy with him. Although it’s a more competitive race I think he’ll go super well.” Meydaan’s seven rivals include G1 winner Sunway, for trainer David Menusier, and David O’Meara’s Epic Poet, third in this race last year. The G3 Firebreak Stakes [presented by Longines], race two, was won last year by King Gold whose trainer Nicolas Caullery saddles Fort Payne this time. The eight-year-old won the G3 Burj Nahaar over this course and distance in March. “Fort Payne is in good shape, he did a good piece of work and is ready to go,” said Marine Henry, wife and assistant to Caullery. “He had a run before he arrived here on 19 December in Chantilly so that will probably help him to be ready for this race on Friday.” Meshtri is three times a winner over this course and distance, including at G2 level, and trainer Costa is hopeful he is back to that sort of form. “Meshtri this week showed his first gallop that looked to be in somewhat of the same ballpark as last season,” he said. “He hasn’t quite been there this year but this week’s training has been more encouraging. Let’s see what we get on Friday night.” Seemar runs Commissioner King and Mendelssohn Bay, both winners already this season. “Commissioner King is a big unit of a horse and it takes him a couple of races to get fit,” he said of the 2023 Saudi Derby winner. “I think now is the time that he’s at his fittest so he should run a really big race. “Mendelssohn Bay was third the last time when he was a little bit slow out of the gate and he was still catching on,” he said. “We decided that the mile wasn’t as deep as the Group 1, so we’ve kept him here and I think he’s got a good chance.” Four G1 winners lock horns among 16 runners in the opening G1 Maktoum Challenge R2 for Purebred Arabians, a key prep race for the G1 Dubai Kahayla Classic in March. That race was won in 2025 for a second time by First Classs, who lines up here after finishing down the field in the G1 President Cup at Abu Dhabi in December. “First Class is doing fantastic,” said trainer Doug Watson. “We pointed for this after that slightly poor performance on the turf the last time. This is where we started getting going with him last year, and he seems like he’s in that kind of form again.” Watson also runs multiple G2 winner Djafar, who makes his second start for the stable. “We’re just getting to know Djafar, but he works like a really nice horse and has done well since we got him.” he said.

If you’re looking for the best race meeting on the planet this week, you don’t need to look past the breathtaking surrounds of Ellerslie in Auckland. New Zealand’s Karaka Millions meeting, headlined by the Group 1 Railway Stakes, is world-class racing at its absolute finest. This is a meeting that defines elite thoroughbred racing. It’s the ultimate proving ground for graduates of one of the most prestigious bloodstock sales anywhere in the world, where reputations are announced and future stars stand up on a global stage. From top to bottom, the card is stacked with feature races, international interest, and serious depth of talent. One of the great joys of Karaka Millions Day is watching the babies’ step onto the big stage, and this year’s two-year-old contest is a beauty. The famous Hayes name is represented by the Australian-trained filly Torture, who crosses the Tasman after an impressive debut win at Caulfield in October. With Damien Lane in the saddle, she’s been set for this race from day one. Standing in her way, as they so often do, are the powerful Te Akau colours, led by the unbeaten colt Kinnaird for the champion training partnership of Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson, with Opie Bosson aboard. He’s done nothing wrong so far and looks to be improving with every run. The spotlight then shifts to the three-year-olds, and once again we’re dealing with serious quality. Well Written, the unbeaten filly from Stephen Marsh’s barn, puts her flawless record on the line. Tough, genuine, and ultra-professional, she has all the hallmarks of a future New Zealand racing superstar. But she won’t have it her own way. Te Akau strike again with La Dorada, and they’ve called on Australian ace Craig Williams to make the trip across the ditch with one clear goal in taking the riches back home. Then it’s time for the main event: Group 1 glory in the Railway Stakes, featuring the very best of New Zealand’s sprinting ranks (outside of the world’s best; with New Zealand bred, Hong Kong superstar Ka Ying Rising, as he chases history at Sha Tin on Sunday.). This year’s Railway is a deep, high-octane affair. Defending champion Crocetti is back, but so too is the horse he narrowly denied last year, Alabama Lass, once again partnered by Craig Williams. The four-year-old mare has been outstanding since that defeat, winning again in New Zealand before heading to Australia and capturing the HKJC World Pool Sprint Classic down Flemington’s famous straight. This has all the ingredients of a classic. Expect fireworks. With a full card of World Pool racing, Ellerslie becomes the meeting point for racing jurisdictions across the globe this Saturday. It’s international, it’s prestigious, and it showcases New Zealand racing at its absolute best. Do yourself a favour; tune in. This is one of the biggest, boldest, and best race days anywhere in the world.

BANKER’S EIGHTYONE (2) and COOL SIXTY-ONE (3) appear to be the major players in the 1200m Class 4B contest (Race 4) at the Selangor Turf Club’s meeting this Saturday. Both horses clashed in a 1200m event taken out by the talented Strong Dragon here a fortnight ago with COOL SIXTY-ONE (3) catching the eye with a fast finishing third, beaten one length. Following successive wins in November last year, COOL SIXTY-ONE (3) has maintained solid form since and is due to strike back. On the other hand, BANKER’S EIGHTYONE (2) looked a shade disappointing after racing on speed before weakening to finish last in the twelve-horse lineup. However, the five year old posted a winning hat trick towards the end of last year and gets in well after the G Farhan apprentice claim. YOU THINK SO (12) came within a head of beating COOL SIXTY-ONE (3) over 1275m here back on November 23 and must come into calculations despite suffering defeat as a beaten favourite at Ipoh last start. CIANGO (10) has descended in the ratings following seven runs in the country and his recent 2nd behind the inform Singha Bay keeps him under notice. FIRE (8) is back in form after five runs since a bleeding attack sustained in June last year and is a chance on the seven-day backup. Race 4 Selections: 3 – 2 – 12 – 10 TAU KEH SOH (6) is always hard to beat in Class 4 grade she looks a major chance in Race 5 over 1200m. A winner over this track and distance three starts ago, the seven year old received no luck when trapped wide throughout to finish 4th (beaten 2.25L) in the race won by Strong Dragon on January 11. M Akmazani rode the mare to victory recently and the pair will be reunited for Saturday’s contest. Former Australian galloper AI ROCKET (4) is nearing a win following two encouraging efforts in this grade. The four year old closed off well, displaying a quick turn of foot to finish runner up here on January 11and will appreciate the better barrier draw. KOONDAKAARA (3) will race at this level for the first time and can bounce back despite failing as an odds-on favourite last run in an Open Novice here two weeks ago. STORM TO FINISH (10) is a two-time winner from four starts and will strip fitter second up from a spell while PANTONG (2) is expected to improve at his first foray in Class 4 company. Race 5 Selections: 6 – 4 – 3 – 10 BANKER’S EMPRESS (1) will be on the six day backup and is on the verge of breaking the Malaysian duck in the 1600m Class 4A contest (Race 8). However, the mare will clash with the progressive four year old GURU FIGHT (6), already proven over the mile and on the road to a winning hat trick. GURU FIGHT (6) possesses a quick turn of acceleration and might prove hard to beat with the 53kg for South African born jockey Kayden Brewer. BANKER’S EMPRESS (2) seemed to hit a flat spot when staking a challenge in a Max Two Stakes race here last Sunday, going down by a head when she finally hit her straps. It should be an enthralling clash between the pair and they appear to be a safe bet for the quinella. KIM KIM (2) should provide the speed influence in the race and may take running down if the mare happens to relax better at the top end. BANKER’S CHAMPION (3) was far from disgraced on his Malaysian debut and will be suited by the distance rise while STAR NORTH (9) looks a genuine lightweight chance with 52kg. Race 8 Selections: 6 – 1 – 2 – 3 Despite racing over the mile for the first time, Brazilian bred four-year-old IRISH GOODBYE (6) can make amends for recent defeats when he lines up in the 1600m Supreme B contest (Race 9). The Lawson Moy trained gelding posted three wins at his first three runs in the country and could go one better after running into an inform Singa Bay last start. FORTUNE TREE (2) led and was overhauled when placed 5th over 1500m here two weeks back and this will be the gelding’s third run over 1600m. He is yet to win beyond 1400m but he is building a good record locally and has placed previously at the mile. GRAND AVANTE (7) flashed home from near last at the 400m to finish 2nd behind classy performer Latin Legend over 1500m last start. The seven year old should be primed following three runs this campaign while KIM POWER (8) is still a query at this level but may provide value for the trifecta. BIG HEARTED (1) lacks early pace but is capable of surprising on best form and hasn’t enjoyed the best of luck in recent starts. Race 9 Selections: 6 – 2 – 7 – 8        

David Hayes is confident Ka Ying Rising remains in peak form as the world’s highest-rated sprinter chases history in the HK$13 million G1 Centenary Sprint Cup (1200m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (25 January). Unbeaten in 16 starts since 12 February, 2024, Ka Ying Rising will equal Silent Witness’ record for a Hong Kong-trained horse of 17 victories in a row if he eclipses six rivals in this weekend’s Group 1 double-header, which also features Romantic Warrior’s clash with Voyage Bubble in the HK$13 million G1 Stewards’ Cup (1600m). Acclaimed last week as Timeform Horse of the Year (2025) as well as being acknowledged this week as both the world’s premier sprinter and joint second-best horse in the 2025 LONGINES World’s Best Racehorse Rankings, Ka Ying Rising has won 17 of 19 starts, including six at Group 1 level. Hayes is adamant Ka Ying Rising, who broke his own Sha Tin 1200m track record in the 2025 Centenary Sprint Cup with a winning time of 1m 07.20s, has not regressed since his devastating G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) triumph in December. “Last start was probably his best win and he seems no worse and what’s so special about him is that he just keeps putting up consistent ratings that are exceptional. Everything tells me that he’s the same,” Hayes said. “I would say (his form is) very similar. It’s hard to say better, isn’t it?” A dual Hong Kong champion trainer, Hayes said he never expected to have a horse capable of threatening Silent Witness’ record, which has stood since 2005. “I never thought that would happen but it’s looking very realistic and if trackwork and trials are any guide, he’s (Ka Ying Rising) held his form and it’s exciting for the weekend,” Hayes said. Ka Ying Rising will jump from barrier four under Zac Purton, while Hayes will also be represented by Tomodachi Kokoroe (Harry Bentley) against Helios Express (Hugh Bowman), Fast Network (James McDonald), Raging Blizzard (Brenton Avdulla), Beauty Waves (Matthew Chadwick) and Lucky With You (Luke Ferraris). “Tomodachi Kokoroe needs to improve. He was fantastic until he got up to the upper class and then when he got into the Group 1s, he struggled. But he’s healthy and well and I’m hoping he can run a place,” Hayes said. Thirteen-time Hong Kong champion trainer John Size is represented in the Centenary Sprint Cup by Raging Blizzard, who ran second to Ka Ying Rising in the LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint, while Helios Express was fifth in the same race. “I don’t think there’s much between them at this stage of their careers; it just depends on the circumstances of the race, the tempo and the track conditions of the day to split them,” Size said. “Raging Blizzard ran a big race on international day to finish second and Helios Express has been consistent, too.” Size will pit 2025 G1 FWD Champions Mile (1600m) winner Red Lion against Romantic Warrior and Voyage Bubble in the Stewards’ Cup, which is the first leg of the Triple Crown. To jump from barrier one under Hugh Bowman, Red Lion ran third to Voyage Bubble and Soul Rush in the G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Mile (1600m) on 14 December. “You never know what can happen on a racetrack and that’s how we live but, as we know, he’s beaten the great horse (Voyage Bubble) once and that was a good example that on any given day, something can work in your favour,” Size said. “His run on international day was near his best and he’s fit and well.” Last season’s Triple Crown winner Voyage Bubble will start from barrier six in his bid to win a third consecutive Stewards’ Cup, while Romantic Warrior will jump from gate seven. Apart from fellow Group 1 winners Red Lion and Lucky Sweynesse, the decorated pair will also face Beauty Joy, Galaxy Patch, Straight Arron, My Wish and Sunlight Power. “The horses are fine and I’m expecting them all to run their usual races. They’ve been in very good shape and they’ve been racing well on the track, too,” Size said. “They all ran well on international day and now they’ve had some time to recuperate, I think they’re ready to run very well again. “I can’t ask for anything more from them in their preparation, but you also can’t expect too much when you’re racing three champions like Ka Ying Rising, Voyage Bubble and Romantic Warrior. It could all go according to plan, or there could be an upset – you never know until they cross the line.” Sunday’s (25 January) 11-race Sha Tin meeting starts with the Class 4 Peniaphobia Handicap (1000m) at 12.30pm. By Leo Schlink

Cats Pajamas has long rated among the country’s better sprinters and can underline his class when he lines up in the African Holly Stakes over 1100m at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Sunday. Now with Nathan Kotzen, the Rafeef gelding returns from a November break and, despite a big weight, looks one of the stronger bets on a bumper 10-race card. His recent form includes solid efforts behind top sprinters such as Minogue, I Am Giant and Gladatorian, and a close fourth in the Grade 1 Mercury Sprint behind Buffalo Storm Cody.

His main rival is course specialist William Robertson, the best weighted in the race and runner-up in this contest last year. King Of The Gauls adds speed after a dominant poly win, while Convocation looks outclassed despite her light weight.

Wild Justice heads the B Stakes after winning three of four starts but is worse off at the weights with Major Tommie. Circumbendibus is in good form and should be competitive, while lightly raced Cowboy Country is a possible improver.

In the C Stakes over 1950m, Master Du Rouvray arrives in strong form with two wins from his last five. High Queue, runner-up in his last two, and Spectacular with a 4kg claimer are the main dangers.

The opening race features exciting juvenile Master Magician, who impressed on debut for Mike Miller and could prove hard to beat. Andrew Fortune travels to ride Blue Steel, who brings solid Cape form into a competitive contest.

Elsewhere, the opening Pick 6 leg is an open staying maiden, while La Maddalena appeals in a tricky handicap later on. The finale is wide open, with Fascination, Light Of Gabriel, Tomyris and consistent Winter Rainfall all holding winning chances under favourable weights.