Bow Echo all guns blazing ahead of Guineas bid
Race for the Trainers’ Championship – Fownes: “The most exciting trainers’...
The Hong Kong racing season has moved into its final quarter and there’s plenty on the line between now and the concluding meeting on 15 July, headlined by what Caspar Fownes has described as “the most exciting trainers’ championship ever”.
Rarely has the fight for the trainers’ premiership been so evenly poised so deep into a campaign, with Fownes and Mark Newnham level in the lead on 50 winners and Danny Shum (49), David Hayes (48), Francis Lui (43) and John Size (41) in striking distance.
Fownes is no stranger to premiership success, bagging the title on four previous occasions, and he revealed just how much he is relishing the fight for a fifth crown.
“I’m really enjoying it. I’m enjoying the competition, and I’m so glad there’s six guys fighting it out. The pressure is constant, and I’m just enjoying the fact it’s game on and everyone is having a go,” he said.
“I would say it’s the most exciting trainers’ championship ever. When you’ve got that many in the hunt – normally a couple clear out from the rest and fight it out – it’s really up for grabs.”
Fownes, who last took the title in 2020/21, finished third last season with 52 winners and is confident he has a nice spread of young horses on the up and older horses on the right ratings.
“I’ve got many winners left. I’m not going to let my competitors know what they are but I’ve got quite a few that can win two or three,” he said.
“I’ve just got to see if there are enough to get done what I want to get done – I want to win a fifth title. I’m in for the fight.
“I’m happy where I’m sitting. I’m sure someone will overtake me and I will overtake them and it will go back and forth and people will have a run. It’s going to be hard fought and it’s really exciting.”
Fownes has had a consistent season, starting strongly with seven winners in each of September and October and really putting his foot down with nine victories in December.
He kept things ticking over with half a dozen winners in February and March, and he has reeled off seven successes in April, thanks to a little help from none other than the “Magic Man”, Joao Moreira.
Moreira wasted no time after coming on as Fownes’ retained rider in early April, steering home a four-timer for his new boss at Happy Valley on 8 April to add another layer to the title race.
“It’s great to have Joao on board and I really want to win it this year. It would mean a lot. I’m focused and I’m putting everything into it,” Fownes said. “I’m working hard and I just hope I can get it done.”
Fownes saddles up nine runners at Sha Tin this Sunday, including Joy Of Spring in the G3 Queen Mother Memorial Cup (2400m) and Kaholo Angel in the Class 2 Members Cup (1600m).
Trainers’ Ranking (Top 6) – As of 30 April, 2026
| Trainer | Win | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | Total runs | |
| 1st | M Newnham | 50 | 42 | 41 | 44 | 28 | 437 |
| 2nd | C Fownes | 50 | 34 | 35 | 31 | 32 | 420 |
| 3rd | D Shum | 49 | 31 | 28 | 32 | 27 | 391 |
| 4th | D Hayes | 48 | 33 | 34 | 43 | 39 | 519 |
| 5th | F Lui | 43 | 35 | 50 | 26 | 33 | 398 |
| 6th | J Size | 41 | 50 | 46 | 34 | 46 | 469 |
May 3 Selangor Preview By Mark Lydeamore
Tin Pan Alley can play a hit tune
Viva can claim the Legal Eagle
The Legal Eagle Stakes at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth offers an important stepping stone toward the Hollywoodbets Durban July, with half the field holding entries for the country’s premier contest.
Viva’s Liberte, trained by Candice Bass, profiles as the horse to beat. Lightly raced and still developing, he has had a less-than-ideal preparation this season but has shown promise against strong opposition. His third in the Cape Derby behind Wish List and a solid effort in the Variety Club Mile suggest he is nearing peak fitness. With leading rider Craig Zackey aboard, this could be his moment to deliver a statement win and strengthen his July credentials.
Tenpenny, from the Paddy Kruyer yard, is another serious contender. He finished narrowly ahead of Viva’s Liberte last time and is arguably better suited to the step up in trip, despite a slight weight disadvantage. La Pulga, a consistent performer, is rarely far behind Tenpenny and should again be competitive, though he may need to find extra to match the top contenders.
Elsewhere on the card, Peace Garland looks ready to break through in Race 1 after two promising runs against useful juveniles. In Race 2, Swift Serenity—a consistent maiden with multiple placings—may have found her opportunity in a suitable sprint.
Race 3 could offer value through Signor Dante, who has faced stronger company in recent starts and may appreciate the drop in class. In Race 4, Lark’s Song, twice runner-up recently, appears poised to shed her maiden tag under Andrew Fortune.
The Listed Ladies Mile (Race 5) sees Swiatek as a lively contender, proven over the course and distance and capable of bouncing back in slightly easier company.
Among the juveniles, Kalahari King stands out in the Grade 3 Winter Nursery, having impressed with a fluent and professional victory last time.
Later, Sooty brings consistent if unpredictable form into Race 8, while Final Call looks progressive and could outclass her rivals in the finale.
With several runners eyeing bigger targets, Sunday’s meeting provides both competitive racing and key clues ahead of the winter feature season.
Zinovi to score again
Five-timer in sight as championship charge continues
Mabaya, Mongqawa hold the aces
FWD Champions Day 2026 Review



Romantic Warrior again showed why he sits at the top of Hong Kong racing, producing another dominant display in the FWD QEII Cup at Sha Tin.
The Danny Shum-trained champion went into the race as the clear headline act of FWD Champions Day, and once again he delivered under James McDonald, adding another major race to a career that continues to grow in stature.
It was the performance of a horse who has made winning at the highest level look routine.
Romantic Warrior came into the race with a remarkable record, having won 19 of his 23 local starts and 22 of his 28 starts on turf. At Group 1 level, he had already established himself as one of the most reliable elite performers in world racing, with 13 wins and five seconds from 19 Group 1 starts.
At Sha Tin, and particularly over 2000m, his record is almost untouchable.
The eight-year-old son of Acclamation had won 17 of his 21 starts at Sha Tin before the race, while his course-and-distance record over 2000m stood at 13 wins and one second from 14 attempts. Overall at the trip, he had won 14 of 16 starts, further underlining why the QEII Cup has become one of his natural targets.
This season, Romantic Warrior has been perfect.
He resumed with an impressive Group 2 win over Voyage Bubble in November, before taking out another Group 1 over 2000m in December. He then showed his versatility by dropping back to the mile in January and beating Lucky Sweynesse, before returning to 2000m in March and winning easily by four lengths over Ensued.
That last-start victory came in 1:59.77, with Romantic Warrior closing off in 22.52, and it confirmed that the local champion was still in outstanding form heading into Champions Day.
For owner Peter Lau Pak Fai, trainer Danny Shum and McDonald, he has been the horse of a lifetime.
Bought for HK$4.8 million, Romantic Warrior has now earned more than HK$254 million in stakes and built a record that places him among the greats of Hong Kong racing.
McDonald’s connection with the horse has also become one of the defining partnerships of his career. Before Sunday, he had ridden Romantic Warrior 18 times for 15 wins and two placings, a record that reflects both the horse’s brilliance and the understanding between jockey and champion.
There are very few horses who can carry the expectation Romantic Warrior does and keep answering it.
He has won from 1200m through to 2040m, placed out to 2400m, travelled overseas and come back, and still returned to Sha Tin as the benchmark horse in Hong Kong.
The FWD QEII Cup was another chance for the racing world to see what Hong Kong fans already know.
Romantic Warrior is not just a local champion.
He is one of the great racehorses of his generation along with Ka Ying Rising.
By Scott Bailey
Dave can demand first stakes win
Trainer Mike Stewart has expertly managed Demanding Dave, guiding the progressive sprinter through the ranks to stakes company. The in-form gelding lines up at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Monday, bidding for a breakthrough victory in the Champagne Stakes over 1200m.
A crowd favourite in Cape Town, Demanding Dave has won four of his last six starts, showcasing a sharp turn of foot and an eye-catching late surge. His last run in the Easter Sprint saw him finish 1.3 lengths behind Dance Variety, but traffic issues at a crucial stage likely cost him momentum. Jockey Andrew Fortune, unbeaten in three rides aboard him, reunites at a light weight, boosting confidence of a rebound.
Sardinia Bay, another promising three-year-old, finished just ahead of Demanding Dave last time and meets him at level weights. His natural early pace is a weapon, though softer ground could test him. Dance Variety, despite inconsistency, remains a major threat if reproducing his best form.
Earlier on the card, The Cullinan appeals in Race 1 after a solid debut, while Godric Gryffindor poses a fitness query returning from a break. In Race 2, Vercicat showed promise when runner-up after gelding and could improve further under Tristan Godden.
Race 3 sees Pay The Palace dropping in class after competing against top company, including a credible run behind Jet Force. With Richard Fourie aboard, he looks a leading contender.
The mile contest (Race 4) is competitive, with Spanish Verse overdue a win after consecutive narrow defeats, while Blizzardboy, Zagreb, and See The Sign all hold claims.
In Race 5, Spirit Of Nical has shown improvement and could capitalize, though Up In Flames may bounce back. Race 6 is open, but Devil A Saint is well treated at the weights and could reverse recent form, while Oliver, from an in-form yard, is a late-running danger if the pace suits.
The closing stages feature Star World, who impressed last start and could follow up, with Iona Castle emerging as a progressive threat.
Sha Tin Track Spy: Sunday, 26 April
FWD Champions Day Preview
The international horses have arrived, the local champions have gone through their final pieces of work, and the atmosphere around Sha Tin has steadily built towards one of Hong Kong racing’s biggest days. Three Group 1 races will headline the meeting — the Chairman’s Sprint Prize, the FWD Champions Mile and the FWD QEII Cup — and each race carries its own storyline.
This is not just a meeting about prize money or prestige. It is a meeting that gives Hong Kong the chance to showcase its best horses against international opposition, and this year there are two local stars in particular who will command global attention.
Ka Ying Rising has become the horse everyone wants to see. Romantic Warrior is already one of the great names of Hong Kong racing. Both have looked well during the week, both appear to have handled their preparations professionally, and both have the chance to add another major chapter to their careers on Sunday.
The Chairman’s Sprint Prize will be all about Ka Ying Rising. He has taken Hong Kong sprinting to another level and now carries the expectation that comes with being the world’s leading sprinter. Watching him through the week, the most impressive part has not been anything flashy. It has been how calm and professional he looks in everything he does and the team are very confident they have him on song.
Great sprinters can sometimes carry nervous energy, but Ka Ying Rising gives the impression of a horse who knows exactly what is required. He has the speed to put himself wherever Zac Purton wants him, but he also has the strength to sustain it. That is what separates him from very good sprinters. He does not just quicken but he keeps going.
This race is another chance for him to build on what is already becoming an extraordinary winning sequence taking it to twenty straight wins. The pressure is there, but he has continued to answer every challenge placed in front of him. From what he has shown in his races and what he has looked like this week, there is no obvious reason to suggest he is ready to come back to the field.
Satono Reve brings the strongest international challenge. The Japanese sprinter is a genuine Group 1 horse, he has travelled here before, and he has the class to make his presence felt if Ka Ying Rising is even slightly below his best. He looked to go through his work well during the week, and Japan’s sprinters always command respect when they travel.
Helios Express is another runner who deserves respect. He has been racing honestly and has the local form to run well again but has been unlucky to run into a generational talent that is Ka Ying Rising, while Raging Blizzard, Beauty Waves, Fast Network and Tomodachi Kokoroe give the race further depth. Comanche Brave adds something different from the overseas angle and will be watched closely.
But in reality, they are all trying to bring down one horse. Ka Ying Rising is the benchmark. If he runs to anything like his best, the Chairman’s Sprint Prize should be his race to lose.
The FWD Champions Mile looks the most open of the three Group 1 races and could easily be the race where tempo, luck and positioning decide the result. A full field gives it a very different shape to the other features, and there are several runners with legitimate claims.
Voyage Bubble is the proven Hong Kong Group 1 miler and comes into this race with the right profile. He has been a terrific horse for local racing, and his best form over this course and distance is strong enough to win again. He has looked well in his work and appears to have come through his preparation in good order even after a niggling issue but connections are happy with him and he will take his place.
This is his chance to step back into the spotlight. With Romantic Warrior staying at 2000 metres, Voyage Bubble gets the chance to be the main local force over the mile. He has the tactical speed to hold a position, which is always important at Sha Tin, and if he gets the right run, he will be hard to hold out.
Jantar Mantar brings serious Japanese quality to the race. He is a proper miler, he has the class, and his form reads strongly enough to make him one of the key winning chances. Japanese horses have a long history of travelling well to Hong Kong, and he has the profile of a horse who can make an impact if he settles into the race and produces his turn of foot.
Docklands is also interesting. The Royal Ascot winner has already shown he can be competitive at Sha Tin and he is the type of horse who could be strongest late if they overdo it in front. He may not have the same headline profile as some others, but he is certainly not here to make up the numbers.
Lucky Sweynesse adds another layer of interest. He was once the dominant sprinter in Hong Kong, and his move towards the mile has given him a new storyline. It is never easy for a horse to change his racing pattern at this level, but class can take a horse a long way, and he still has plenty of that.
The Champions Mile is the race where I would be most cautious about being too confident. Voyage Bubble has the local Group 1 credentials, Jantar Mantar has the international class, and Docklands looks the one who could be finishing strongly. The race may be decided by who gets the cleanest run at the right time.
The FWD QEII Cup is where Romantic Warrior again takes centre stage. He has been the face of Hong Kong middle-distance racing for several seasons now, and the chance to win this race for a fourth time gives Sunday another layer of significance.
Few horses have carried expectation as well as Romantic Warrior. He has travelled, returned, backed up big performances, and continued to turn up at the elite level. That is what makes him so special. It is not just his talent, it is his consistency and professionalism.
Watching him this week, he looks like the same seasoned champion. He went through his work with purpose, and there was nothing to suggest he has gone backwards. Danny Shum has managed him with great care throughout his career, and James McDonald knows exactly how to get the best out of him.
The challenge this year is real. Masquerade Ball comes from Japan with strong credentials and looks the main threat. He has the profile of a serious 2000-metre horse and has the right jockey booking in Christophe Lemaire. If Romantic Warrior is going to be tested, this is the horse most likely to do it. His second placing to the worlds best horse Calandagan in the Japan Cup was exceptional and his rider has hinted ‘he could be one of the Japan greats’. From a rider that has ridden plenty of them that is some wrap.
Sosie also brings major European form into the race. He was excellent in Hong Kong in December when winning the Vase, and while dropping back to 2000 metres is a different challenge, his class and stamina make him a dangerous runner if the race becomes a genuine staying test. He has been tested in his trackwork during the week but his condition is glowing and he will look a danger at some point down the Sha Tin straight.
Royal Champion arrives with confidence after his win in Saudi Arabia, and he is another who has shown he can travel and perform. Giovanni, June Take, Rubylot and Numbers add depth, but the race still revolves around whether Romantic Warrior can again produce his best at Sha Tin.
The champion has been here before. He knows this race having won it multiple times, he knows the track, and he has made a habit of delivering when the pressure is at its highest. Masquerade Ball gives the race a genuine international edge, but Romantic Warrior remains the horse they all have to beat.
FWD Champions Day has shaped as a meeting with real global appeal. Ka Ying Rising is trying to continue one of the great winning runs in modern sprinting. Voyage Bubble leads the local hopes in a strong and competitive Champions Mile. Romantic Warrior is chasing another piece of history in a race he has made his own.
The international runners have added quality and intrigue, but after watching the build-up during the week, the strongest impression is that Hong Kong’s headline horses look ready. They have carried themselves like top-class racehorses, and now they get the chance to prove it again on one of the biggest stages in Asian racing.
By Scott Bailey from Sha Tin
Prix Ganay Preview
Longchamp will stage the first Group 1 of the European season on Sunday with the running of the Prix Ganay World Pool by PMU, and while the field may be small, there is plenty of quality and intrigue around the 2100-metre contest.
Only six runners will line up, with the race featuring no overseas representation and just four trainers involved, but that should not take anything away from the depth of the field. This is a proper Group 1, bringing together last season’s Arc winner, proven top-level performers and a strong team from Andre Fabre that already has race fitness on its side.
The clear headline runner is Daryz, who returns for the first time since his outstanding victory in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe last year. That performance announced him as one of the leading middle-distance horses in Europe, as he defeated Minnie Hauk and put a clear gap on the rest of a high-class field.
The son of Sea The Stars now begins a new campaign, and this will be an important first step. He has the class to win this, but there are a few small queries. He was at his strongest late in the Arc over 2400 metres, so the drop back in distance to 2100 metres may not be ideal, particularly if the race is slowly run. He is also resuming, and connections are likely to have bigger targets later in the season.
That said, Daryz is a genuine Group 1 horse and the one they all have to measure up against. If he is anywhere near forward enough, he can make a winning return and confirm himself as one of the major names to follow through the European season.
Aventure also brings strong Group 1 form into the race. Her Arc run behind Daryz was not her best, but she is better than that and has shown enough quality at the top level to be highly competitive here. Like Daryz, she is first-up and may be better over further, but she has the class to be involved if she is ready to go.
Arrow Eagle is another runner with Group 1 form next to his name after his win in the Prix Royal-Oak last season. He is tough, genuine and proven at the level, but this distance looks short of his best. He may find this a little sharp on his return, although he still adds real depth to the race.
The race-fit runners could be the key to the contest, especially the Andre Fabre-trained trio of Bright Picture, Cualificar and First Look. All three come through the Prix d’Harcourt, where Bright Picture was able to win, Cualificar finished close up in third and First Look was not far away.
Bright Picture has to be respected off that last-start Group 2 win. He is fit, in form and represents one of the great European stables. First Look also has claims, particularly if he can improve from his return run, but Cualificar may be the most interesting of the Fabre runners.
Cualificar was beaten only narrowly in the Prix d’Harcourt and should take improvement from that run. His effort in the Arc at the end of last season can be forgiven, as he may simply have been at the end of his preparation. Back to 2100 metres with race fitness on his side, he looks well placed to run a big race.
The Prix Ganay looks a fascinating clash between proven Group 1 stars returning from a break and race-fit horses ready to take advantage if the big names are not fully wound up. Daryz is clearly the horse with the most upside and the strongest piece of form, but this is not a soft return.
He deserves to be favourite, but Cualificar looks the runner capable of making things interesting. If Daryz is forward enough, he can win and start his season in the perfect fashion. If he is just short of peak fitness, Cualificar may be the one ready to capitalise.
By Scott Bailey
Little Paradise, Invincible Ibis out to defy FWD Champions Mile trend
April 25 Selangor Preview By Mark Lydeamore
Unstoppable Ka Ying Rising Targets More Glory
South Africa Express Form & Race Previews (Greyville) – May 2
RACE BY RACE PREVIEWS: GREYVILLE@2026.05.02
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 02.05.2026, Race 1, Gallops, 1400m, Poly, R140,000, 12:05GMT+2Race Summary: TAX FREE made promising improvement at her second start behind progressive Alice B Toklas. MOSAIC WORLD found market support in a promising debut and should improve. ICEBERG ROSE has a wide draw but made good improvement second time out. RED HOT MISS should prefer this trip after a promising sprint debut.
Selections: #4 TAX FREE, #6 MOSAIC WORLD, #11 ICEBERG ROSE, #3 RED HOT MISS
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 02.05.2026, Race 2, Gallops, 1400m, Poly, R90,000, 12:40GMT+2Race Summary: GORGEOUS DUDE in form. Best course and distance and best of the draw. SEND ME improved in blinkers. Fair weight. KIMBALL O’HARA Down in class and form has been franked. BANK STREET big drop in class. Enjoys the poly.
Selections: #1 GORGEOUS DUDE, #6 BANK STREET, #4 SEND ME, #10 KIMBALL O’HARA
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 02.05.2026, Race 3, Gallops, 1000m, Turf, R160,000, 13:15GMT+2Race Summary: Many first timers. KUDIKARAN finished last in a four-horse SA Nursery field but was not far back. RED HOT GUY was close-up in a promising debut and should benefit from the run. LIGHTINTHEWOODS was a distance second on debut but sure to come on from that outing. Takes on males. SCOTS WAE HAE looks the pick of the Hollywood runners judged on jockey bookings.
Selections: #2 KUDIKARAN, #8 RED HOT GUY, #4 LIGHTINTHEWOODS, #1 SCOTS WAE HAE
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 02.05.2026, Race 4, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R140,000, 13:50GMT+2Race Summary: Open. BOURBON’S BEAST goes well this course and distance. Last two were in the soft. GOOD OMEN is overdue. Beaten favourite last run and can make amends. KAZ FROM ALCATRAZ was beaten by a promising colt last run. Takes on older runners but looks promising. Stable companion HARPA takes on males but is well weighted and can surprise.
Selections: #5 BOURBON’S BEAST, #7 GOOD OMEN, #10 KAZ FROM ALCATRAZ, #9 HARPA
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 02.05.2026, Race 5, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R750,000, 14:25GMT+2Race Summary: Many warming up for the bigger races. QUESTIONING won well last time out. The extra furlong will not trouble him from the best of the draw. GLADATORIAN is back on his favourite course and won last year beating See It Again. OUTLAW KING has consistent Cape form and has won over the distance. CATS PAJAMAS made the required improvement in blinkers when winning the Hawaii Stakes. He meets stronger here but is still improving.
Selections: #1 QUESTIONING, #2 GLADATORIAN, #6 OUTLAW KING, #7 CATS PAJAMAS
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 02.05.2026, Race 6, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R500,000, 15:05GMT+2Race Summary: QUICKSTEPGAL was beaten by the weight last run. She can add to her Cape Fillies Guineas victory. WISH LIST won the Cape Derby beating males. She may prefer it a touch further. PRINCESS OF GAUL arrived from the Cape in good form winning her last start. She should be a contender from a handy gate. BEACH VERSE has excellent form in linkers but does jump in class.
Selections: #8 WISH LIST, #5 QUICKSTEPGAL, #2 PRINCESS OF GAUL, #10 BEACH VERSE
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 02.05.2026, Race 7, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R750,000, 15:45GMT+2Race Summary: TIN PAN ALLEY got a hefty rating increase for his last win in the Gr1 HF Oppenheimer Horse Chestnut Stakes. De Melo is two-from-two and a repeat showing should see him hard to beat. There should be little between STAR MAJOR and HAPPY VERSE given their last two encounters. ONE EYE ON VEGAS is never out of the money and should be a strong contender.
Selections: #3 TIN PAN ALLEY, #6 ONE EYE ON VEGAS, #10 HAPPY VERSE, #8 STAR MAJOR
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 02.05.2026, Race 8, Gallops, 2000m, Turf, R200,000, 16:25GMT+2Race Summary: ROSE WOOTT surprised in first time blinkers. Lightly raced she may still be under the handicappers radar and has a handy galloping weight. LADYOFDISTINCTION has yet to finish out of the money. This is her peak run after a short break. GERBERA was a good second when taking on males last run behind former Gr2 Golden Horseshoe winner Chronicle King. RAHHABA is in mustard form and had Ladyofdistinction behind her at her last two wins. Now meet at level weights.
Selections: #9 ROSE WOOTT, #4 LADYOFDISTINCTION, #5 GERBERA, #8 RAHHABBA
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 02.05.2026, Race 9, Gallops, 1000m, Turf, R175,000, 17:00GMT+2Race Summary: O’TENIKWA looks well in at the weights. He is a smart sprinter and should feature. TAXI TO THE MOON has run two smart races in top company at his last two and should be right there again. I AM GIANT did not put a foot wrong in the Cape against the best sprinter around. These weight could find him out. KING OF THE GAULS is quick and has found his best form of late.
Selections: #10 O’TENIKWA, #6 TAXI TO THE MOON, #11 I AM GIANT, #2 WINDS OF CHANGE
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 02.05.2026, Race 10, Gallops, 400m, Turf, R120,000, 17:35GMT+2Race Summary: INAFIX has a light weight and first time blinkers. ZOOMBOMER has come to hand and only has 48kg to shoulder. LUHAMBA PHAMBILI has been up against stronger of late but gives plenty of weight. ARVERNI PRINCESS is in good form and another with a light weight.
Selections: #7 INAFIX, #8 ZOOMBOMBER, #6 LUHAMBA PHAMBILI, #4 ARVERNI PRINCESS
Best Win: #1 Questioning
Best Value Bet: #10 O’Tenikwa
Best Longshot: Race 8 #9 Rose Woott
France Express Form & Race Previews (Saint-Cloud/ Dax) – Friday, May...
RACE 1: HUNYADE STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM SAINT-CLOUD RACE 1) – 1200M – TIME: 19:22 PRIZE MONEY: EUR27400
Vignelli (FR) Colt by Siyouni, the dam ran once. From a top trainer who has his horses in rude health. Expected to be well prepared and any market support could be informative. Soulage Colt by Dark Angel, the dam never ran. Half-brother to Kiss Melody, (Gr.3 placed and won on debut) From the Fabre yard that can have this colt well tuned. Pippen (FR) Colt by Sealiway, the dam won 2 races. One to pay attention to in the betting market for any market moves. The Highlight (IRE) Colt by Dark Angel, the dam won 3 races, including a Listed in the.
RACE 2: LA BELLE II STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM SAINT-CLOUD RACE 2) – 1200M – TIME: 19:58 PRIZE MONEY: EUR27400
Kosuma (FR) Filly by Night Of Thunder, the dam won 3 races, including a Listed event over 2400m. From a top trainer in Andre Fabre who excels with newcomers. Key chance. Checkered Flag (FR) Filly by Starspan- gledbanner, the dam was unraced. Nice pedigree and she will be well prepared by shrewd connections. Player. Why Not (FR) Filly by Space Blues, the dam won 1 race. Some good aspects to her profile and she is worth a betting market inspection. La Belle Isola (FR) Filly by Texas, the dam was placed a few times. From a good trainer that can ready a newcomer to strike on debut.
RACE 3: FOURIRE STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM SAINT-CLOUD RACE 3) – 2000M – TIME: 20:33 PRIZE MONEY: EUR24700
Zaribiyan (IRE) Colt by Megdalia D’Oro, the dam won 2 races, including a Group 3 and was placed in a Listed and Group 2 race. From a top trainer that has his horses in fine health. Bold show can be expected. Awick Colt by Dubawi, the dam won 2 races, including a Group 3 and was placed in Listed, Group 2 and a Group 1 race. From the Fabre powerhouse. Taking profile and a good performance can be anticipated. Estima (FR) Filly by St Mark’s Basilica, the dam won 3 races, including a Listed race. Some good aspects to her profile and she is one to pay attention to if the betting vibes are lively. Costa Navarino Colt by Kingman, the dam was unraced. Looks good on paper and any market support could be a good indication to expected performance.
RACE 4: DE BEAUMESNIL HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM SAINT-CLOUD RACE 4) – 2000M – TIME: 21:15 PRIZE MONEY: EUR52800
Persian Grace (IRE) Finished 5th last time out over 2100m at Saint-Cloud in a maiden race on April 3rd. Tries a handicap and looks well treated. Too Darn Quick Two unplaced runs this year, 6th in a handicap at Deauville over 2100m on April 8th last time out. Has shown ability and was 3rd on his second start last year. Player. Libeccio Wind (IRE) Three placed efforts, 3rd on the latter over 2100m at Saint-Cloud in a maiden race on April 3rd. Handicap debut and can be competitive. Yzya (FR) Two unplaced runs since a 3rd over 1600m at Saint-Cloud in a handicap on March 5th. One to consider each-way.
RACE 5: DU MUGUET STAKES – GROUP 2 (TURF TRACK) (FROM SAINT-CLOUD RACE 5) – 1600M – TIME: 21:50 PRIZE MONEY: EUR119000
No Lunch (IRE) Gallant winner in a Class 1 Condition over 1600m at Chantilly on the 8th of March 2026. Strong winning chance. Silius (IRE) Good run in a Group III over 1600m at Saint-Cloud on the 29th of March 2026. Solid each way chance. Seagulls Eleven (IRE) Forgivable 13th in the Golden Eagle back in Randwick over 1500m on the 1st of November 2025. Returns after a rest but can run well fresh. Next Mine (GER) Pleasant 3rd in a Group III over 1600m at Dusseldorf on the 12th of April 2026. Bold chance to feature well.
RACE 6: DE LA CHALOSSE MAIDEN STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM DAX RACE 1) – 2100M – TIME: 22:07 PRIZE MONEY: EUR19200
Teo’s Barley Cen (IRE) Has run in both starts, the latest when 3rd in a Conditions race at Toulouse over 2000m on 6 April. Has claims in this line-up. Kumpel (FR) A runner-up on debut in a Conditions race at Tarbes over 2100m on 5 April. Can go one place better this time. Nelson Dream (FR) Finished 4th on debut in a Conditions race at Tarbes over 2100m on 5 April. Has room to improve and is clearly not out of it. Armano (FR) Did not show his best when 6th in a Conditions race at Marseille-Borély over 2600m on 3 April. Capable of doing better and could make the frame.
RACE 7: ALLEZ FRANCE STAKES – GROUP 2 (TURF TRACK) (FROM SAINT-CLOUD RACE 6) – 2000M – TIME: 22:25 PRIZE MONEY: EUR73200
Cankoura (FR) Encouraging 7th in a Group I over 2000m at Deauville on the 24th of August 2025. Returns after 8 months but can run well fresh. Sunly Solid 2nd in a Group II over 2400m at Parislongchamp on the 13th of July 2025. Returns after 9 months but can be poisonous. Tajlina Credible 3rd in a Listed over 2100m at Parislongchamp on the 5th of April 2026. Huge each way chance. Indalimos (FR) Bold 2nd in a Listed over 2100m at Parislongchamp on the 5th of April 2026. Include in all plays here.
RACE 8: SOLEDAD DE MORATALLA HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM DAX RACE 2) – 2300M – TIME: 22:42 PRIZE MONEY: EUR16300
Zingarelle (FR) Showed improvement when runner-up in a handicap at Toulouse over 2400m on 6 April. Likes it on the turf and could go one place better. Dschingis Heights (FR) Victorious in a handicap at Evereux over 2500m on 15 April. Is in decent form and can contest the finish carrying a penalty. Long Ke Wan (FR) Not reliable and was 5th in a handicap at Toulouse over 2400m on 6 April. Capable of contesting the finish. Al Aamriya (FR) Not reliable and was 8th in a handicap at Le Teste-de-Buch over 1900m on 21 March. Can be competitive when in the right mood.
RACE 9: DU CHATEAU BEAUM DE BEAUMESNIL HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM SAINT-CLOUD RACE 7) – 2000M – TIME: 23:00 PRIZE MONEY: EUR19600
Bourbon Moon (IRE) Improved into 2nd in a Handicap over 2000m at Deauville on the 8th of April 2026. Good winning chance. Aqua Aura (FR) Pleasant 4th in a Handicap over 1800m at Compiegne on the 25th of April 2026. Has the potential to go close. Mia Fast (FR) Forgivable 9th in a Handicap over 2000m at Deauville on the 8th of April 2026. Place chance at best. Halsey (FR) Better run into 3rd in a Claimer over 2000m at Fontainebleau on the 20th of April 2026. Include in all plays.
RACE 10: AICHA STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM DAX RACE 3) – 2300M – TIME: 23:17 PRIZE MONEY: EUR16000
Marakez Al Shahania (FR) Returned from a break and finished 5th in a Conditions race at Bordeaux- Le Bouscat over 1900m on 27 March. Fitter this time and should ight it out. Asaalah (FR) Not reliable and finished 5th in a Conditions race at Toulouse over 2000m on 23 November. Returns from a break and is capable of being a threat to these rivals. Allie Saint Lon (FR) Consistent so far and finished third in a Conditions race at Toulouse over 2100m on 3 March 2025. Returns from a lengthy break and could make the frame. Jarrah Al Shahania (FR) Finished fourth on debut in a Conditions race at Pau over 2000m on 8 February. Tries the grass this time around but does have claims.
RACE 11: DE BEAUVAL HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM SAINT-CLOUD RACE 8) – 2000M – TIME: 23:35 PRIZE MONEY: EUR26900
Mister Black Good 2nd in a Handicap over 1900m at Chantilly on the 30th of March 2026. Striking condition and can win. Just Inspiration (USA) She is better than her last run ton 7th in a maiden over 2400m at Saint- Cloud on the 24th of March 2026. Can make amends. Ritmica Credible 3rd in a Handicap over 1900m at Chantilly on the 30th of March 2026. Good each way chance. Notioni Fal (FR) Pleasant 5th in a Handicap over 2400m at Saint-Cloud on the 3rd of April 2026. Include in all plays.
RACE 12: J. L. DE ROUX HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM DAX RACE 4) – 2300M – TIME: 23:52 PRIZE MONEY: EUR14400
Version Cox (FR) Showed some improvement when runner-up in a handicap at Toulouse over 2400m on 6 April. Can go one place better. Yes Boy (FR) Much improved last run when 4th in a handicap at Toulouse over 2400m on 6 April. Should be competitive in this line-up. Starecto (FR) Not reliable and finished 5th in a handicap at Toulouse over 2400m on 6 April. Capable of better and could make the frame. Lady Darka (FR) Disappointing of late and finished 11th in a handicap at Le Teste-de-Buch over 1900m on 21 March. Victorious back in December and is capable of being a threat to these rivals.
RACE 13: PAUL-NOEL DELAHOUTRE STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM SAINT-CLOUD RACE 9) – 2100M – TIME: 00:10 PRIZE MONEY: EUR16500
Hamavi (IRE) Pleasant 6th in a Listed over 2400m at Saint-Cloud on the 19th of March 2026. Strong winning chance. Amico (GER) Considerable effort in a Group I over 2400m at Hamburg-Horn on the 6th of July 2025. Returns after a rest but can run well in this field. Eugene Smith (IRE) decent 3rd in a Class 3 Condition over 2000m at Saint-Cloud on the 10th of April 2026. Minor each way chance on form. Golden Weaver (FR) Not disgraced into 8th in a Listed over 3000m at Deauville on the 9th of August 2025. Can make amends.
RACE 14: J. GISHIA – C. DE CHAISEMARTIN STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM DAX RACE 5) – 2100M – TIME: 00:27 PRIZE MONEY: EUR27000
Corsica (FR) Only found one better on debut at Tarbes over this distance on 5 April. Likely to im- prove and should make a bold bid. No War Laboueyrie (FR) Not disgraced when fourth on debut in a Conditions race at Tarbes over this distance on 5 April. Should contest the finish once again. Nausicaa Trois (FR) A three-year-old filly by Ivawood out of Tavirca Trois who is making her debut. Her dam won 1 of 8 starts. Monitor the betting. Lady Bird (FR) Finished 9th on debut in a Conditions race at Tarbes over this distance on 5 April. Capable of improvement and might make the frame.
RACE 15: PIERRE ET BENOIT VERGEZ STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM DAX RACE 6) – 2100M – TIME: 01:02 PRIZE MONEY: EUR27000
Forbes Du Pecos (FR) Only found one better on the day when runner-up in a Conditions race at Tarbes over this distance on 5 April. Should fight out the finish. Bigboss Pecos (FR) Has shown promise in both starts, the latest when successful in a Conditions race at Tarbes over this distance on 5 April. Can follow up. Focosa Du Pecos (FR) Showed promise on debut when third in a Conditions race at Mont-de-Marsan over 2000m on 12 March. Should fight out the finish with improvement expected. No Comment (FR) A three-year-old colt by Entrée De Jeu Aa out of Vareska who is making his debut. His mother won 3 of her 9 starts. Can be a threat.
RACE 16: DE L’HOTEL DE CHIEVRES STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM DAX RACE 7) – 1400M – TIME: 01:34 PRIZE MONEY: EUR20100
Chaconne (IRE) Successful on debut in a Conditions race at Lignieres over 1600m on 7 April. A well-backed winner on debut and could follow up. Alexander Maximus (FR) Did not show his best when 6th in a Con- ditions race at Marseille-Borely over 1800m on 18 March. Some solid wins before that and can contest the finish. Senatrice (FR) Probably better on the PSF and was 7th in a Conditions race at La Teste-de-Buch over 1200m on 1 April. Not out of it though. Glow Up (FR) Did not show her best when 7th in a Conditions race at Bordeaux-Le Bouscat over 1400m on 11 April. Did win on debut and can get involved with the finish.
RACE 17: SHAHM STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM DAX RACE 8) – 1400M – TIME: 02:06 PRIZE MONEY: EUR16000
Rahaf (spa) A bit of a disappointment when only 5th in a Conditions race at Bordeaux-Le Bouscat over 1900m on 11 April. Clearly capable of better and has a big chance this time. Tabarus (qa) Returned from a break and showed vast improvement when runner-up in a Conditions race at Bordeaux-Le Bouscat over 1600m on 11 April. Can go one better this time. Jouza (FR) Probably needed her only run of this year when 7th in a Conditions race at Mont-de-Marsan over 2000m on 23 March. Can challenge for top honours. Majeda De Carrere (FR) Not reliable and finished 6th in a Conditions race at Bordeaux-Le Bouscat over 1600m on 11 April. Capable of better and can make the frame.
South Africa Express Form & Race Previews (Fairview) – May 01
RACE BY RACE PREVIEWS: FAIRVIEW POLYTRACK@2026.05.01
Fairview Polytrack, 01.05.2026, Race 1, Gallops, 1400m, Poly, R71.000, 12:30GMT+2
Race Summary: ALAKAZAM was doing her best work late on local debut. She can go one better, but it is an open looking race. JAZZ AWAY likes the Polytrack and from a good draw should be competitive again. SALAGADOOLA is consistent and should contest the finish. LADY LIMONCELLO found one better on her poly debut and should be a real threat to these rivals. WORLD OF DIAMONDS and LOVELY DANCER are capable of earning money.
Selections: #4 Alakazam, #6 Jazz Away, #2 Lady Limoncello, #3 Salagadoola
Fairview Polytrack, 01.05.2026, Race 2, Gallops, 1400m, Poly, R71.000, 13:05GMT+2
Race Summary: A very open race. MONKEY’S WEDDING is clearly unreliable but does have a chance to win a race of this nature. WORLD SOPRANO is in good form and would not be a surprise winner. Stable companions MAKAJIMA and SILVER OF SUNSHINE are threats. MAKAJIMA has shown a liking for the Polytrack. SILVER OF SUNSHINE makes his local debut and stable jockey Richard Fourie is in the irons. BUGLE is battling to get out of the maiden ranks but does have a place chance. GIMMETHEGOLD showed improvement last time out and could go one better.
Selections: #1 Monkey’s Wedding, #2 World Soprano, #3 Makajima, #4 Sliver Of Sunshine
Fairview Polytrack, 01.05.2026, Race 3, Gallops, 1900m, Poly, R71.000, 13:40GMT+2
Race Summary: A race to go very wide in the Pick 6. MISSOURI FLAME is knocking loudly at the door and could go one place better. TRIP TO PEACE, OSMIUM and LUCA DA WHEELS are all making their local debut trying the polytrack and are capable of improvement. GREY WARRIOR and SATELLITE WORLD both look course and distance suited and are threats. LEIF ERIKSON, EXPLOSIVE GIFT and STRAIGHT RED are others capable of getting involved with the finish and should be included in all permutations.
Selections: #6 Satellite World, #5 Missouri Flame, #9 Straight Red, #8 Explosive Gift
Fairview Polytrack, 01.05.2026, Race 4, Gallops, 1600m, Poly, R108.000, 14:15GMT+2
Race Summary: ZINOVI is the best runner in the race no question. He has only, however, raced once on this surface and that was on local debut. He has been very good on the grass and will be hard to beat if the surface is not an issue for him. FIREALLEY was a game winner just last week and will not go down without a fight as he is proven on the Polytrack. NELSON BAY put up a good fight in his last two but this is toughe. GLOBAL STATE is not reliable but can be earn some money if given a soft lead. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN can also earn.
Selections: #1 Zinovi, #2 Firealley, #4 Nelson Bay, #7 Kingdom Of Heaven
Fairview Polytrack, 01.05.2026, Race 5, Gallops, 1400m, Poly, R80.000, 14:50GMT+2
Race Summary: KLEINZEE attracted betting support when a game winner on local debut. She quickened well that day and may have some wins left in her tank. DESERT CLOUD has improved of late and will not go down without a fight. RHYDIAN makes his local debut and would not be a surprise winner. KING’S SAILOR is unreliable but might play a minor role on this surface. NIGHTJAR is better than his local debut and can be competitive. FLIGHT ENGINEER is not an easy ride but has a place chance. So, too, does MIGHTY MAC who is unreliable.
Selections: #3 Kleinzee, #1 Desert Cloud, #2 Rhydian, #5 Nightjar
Fairview Polytrack, 01.05.2026, Race 6, Gallops, 1400m, Poly, R76.000, 15:25GMT+2
Race Summary: AMANATTO did not show her best last time out. She could bounce back to beat these rivals but it is a very open race. LUCKY CHANCE won last time out and could be better than rated. ENDEARED is unreliable but is also not out of it. MIDNIGHT MUSIC showed what she is capable of with a solid last win and could follow up. NAUTICAL LANDING attracted a lot of betting support last week and was narrowly beaten so could make amends. BLACK PATH has been a disappointment of late but might surprise.
Selections: #5 Amanatto, #4 Midnight Music, #6 Nautical Landing, #8 Black Path
Fairview Polytrack, 01.05.2026, Race 7, Gallops, 1200m, Poly, R108.000, 16:00GMT+2
Race Summary: Some smart horses here. FAIRY KNIGHT continues to hold his fine form and is the one to beat. CRUISE CONTROL reminded us what he is capable of with a good last win and he is a threat once again. MERCANTOUR has a good record on the Polytrack and is course and distance suited. CLIFF TOP is back on his favourite surface and if given a soft lead could upset. MR FOX returned to form with a good win and has a place chance.
Selections: #1 Fairy Knight, #2 Cruise Control, #3 Mercantour, #4 Cliff Top
Fairview Polytrack, 01.05.2026, Race 8, Gallops, 1200m, Poly, R85.000, 16:35GMT+2
Race Summary: A very open last leg of the Pick 6 and a wide spread of runners is advised. ALWAYS SHINING arrives for this after a solid last win and may well follow up. RAVILIOUS is having a good season but is giving weight to all his rivals. COASTAL PATH is consistent but does find it tough to actually win. PRINCE FLORIAN is doing well and must be included in all bets. CHARLIE MALONE and stable companion MUNCHKIN are often competitive and could earn. HONORINE’S GIMMIE might follow up on a maiden victory.
Selections: #4 Always Shining, #5 Prince Florian, #9 Honorine’s Gimmie, #1 Ravilious
Best Win: #1 ZINOVI
Best Longshot: #4 ALWAYS SHINING




























