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Zackey, Lerena set for a fistful of winners

February 11, 2026

The second weekday race meeting on the Highveld lands at Turffontein’s Inside track on Thursday 12 February for a compact eight-race card that looks refreshingly short on guesswork. When the dust settles, it would be no surprise if Craig Zackey and Gavin Lerena between them account for five of the afternoon’s events, with the betting value concentrated around a handful of progressive three-year-olds and some rock-solid form lines. Zackey holds the aces early, particularly in the middle races where he teams up twice with Lucky Houdalakis and two last-start winners who look capable of defying the handicapper. The standout is Quickfreeze in Race 3 over 1450m. The Querari colt announced himself in no uncertain terms when brushing aside older rivals on handicap debut, showing both tactical speed and a decisive turn of foot. An eight-point penalty and a full 60kg are obvious obstacles on paper, but this is a horse going the right way – fast. If he’s as good as he looked last time, the weight won’t stop him, so it should pay to follow his progress closely. That Zackey sticks with Quickfreeze rather than Sean Tarry’s smart Speedman is a telling piece of jockey intelligence. The latter, a Vercingetorix gelding with plenty upside, lost nothing in defeat when tasting his first career loss last time and he remains one for the black book. However, the rider’s choice strongly suggests the Houdalakis runner is the one with the bigger engine right now. Zackey and Houdalakis can double up in Race 4 over 1800m with Agoge, another three-year-old who looks to have found his feet. The Gimmethegreenlight gelding rebounded sharply from a Grade 3 misfire over 1400m to beat older horses under a stiff weight over 1600m last time. The extra 200m should be right up his alley and, while an eight-point rise demands caution, further improvement is very much on the cards. If Zackey threatens a race-to-race double, Lerena may well steal the show later with a Pick 3 of his own. Taegan’s Champ in Race 5 over 1800m is the starting point. Fabian Habib’s charge responded positively to first-time blinkers when scoring with authority last time and reappears off an unchanged mark with the headgear retained. That’s the classic recipe for follow-up success. Race 6 over 1000m brings one of the better bets on the card in Time For Charity. The tough, honest Time Thief mare has been knocking loudly and was an excellent third last time, finishing ahead of several re-opposing rivals. Her consistency deserves reward, and from a favourable setup she looks primed to get it. Lerena completes the treble attempt in Race 7 with Hong Kong, a Tony Peter-trained filly who has stepped forward since blinkers were applied. She made light work of a similar field over 1450m on the Vaal Classic track last time and, despite a four-point penalty, remains well placed to repeat the dose over the same trip. Clive Robinson

Umfula looks tailormade for a huge effort

February 10, 2026

Forever Young Bids For Historic Second Saudi Cup

February 9, 2026

Trainer Yoshito Yahagi believed Forever Young (JPN) to be virtually unbeatable when he thwarted Romantic Warrior (IRE) 12 months ago and he returns to Riyadh with his Breeders’ Cup hero bidding to become the first dual winner of the Group 1 Saudi Cup at King Abdulaziz Racecourse this Saturday.

Hong Kong legend Romantic Warrior was the only possible danger to victory in the 2025 renewal of the USD$20million feature in the mind of the decorated trainer.

And he was proved correct as the pair went head-to-head down the stretch with Forever Young prevailing by neck – having only led inside the final 25 metres.

“I didn’t think he would be beaten by any horse,” revealed Yahagi. “But I wasn’t completely sure about Romantic Warrior, as it was his first time racing on dirt. If Forever Young was going to be beaten, it had to be by Romantic Warrior.”

Romantic Warrior made a big move at the top of the stretch and looked assured of success, only for Ryusei Sakai to wear him down aboard the brilliant entire in a dramatic climax.

“It was unbelievable. To be honest, I thought we had been beaten at the finish. It was a great race,” added Yahagi.

The trainer bids for a third win in just seven renewals of The Saudi Cup following on from Panthalassa (JPN) in 2023, and Forever Young will be having his first start after writing another chapter in the history books when becoming the first Japanese-trained winner of the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar last November.

“He skipped the Tokyo Daishoten this year after the Breeders’ Cup,’ explained Yahagi. “He was carrying a little extra weight at first, but he has been improving steadily.

“The anti-clockwise track and the long home straight really suit him in Saudi Arabia and Sakai knows everything about him. Their partnership is very reliable,” added the trainer of the pairing who also claimed the 2024 Saudi Derby.

Yahagi has been one of the leading advertisers of Japanese racing with wins also in Dubai on World Cup night, in Hong Kong and with a Cox Plate victory in Australia.

“Winning the Breeders’ Cup Classic definitely brought about a big change in the Japanese racing industry. Horse racing is still not the biggest sport in Japan, but I would like to continue working to grow it,” he explained.

“The Japanese racing industry is aiming to be the best in the world. Strong fan support, including wagering turnover, contributes to high prize-money. Because of that, Japanese owners are willing to invest significant sums. The industry is healthy thanks to the support of the fans.”

Forever Young went on to be third in the Dubai World Cup last year and a return to Meydan is again on the cards, but another tilt at a Breeders’ Cup has yet to be decided.

Yahagi said: “He will run The Saudi Cup and the Dubai World Cup. He is scheduled to run in those two races. We are focusing on these two Middle Eastern races for his spring campaign. Nothing has been confirmed yet for his autumn campaign.

“The Breeders’ Cup will be held at Keeneland this year, which makes it a different situation for us compared to when it is held on the West Coast of the United States. I need to discuss our plans with the owner, Mr. Fujita, who was keen to keep him in training.”

Team Yahagi return with not one but two defending champions as Shin Emperor (FR) also bids for a repeat win after making all from stall three last year in the Howden Neom Turf Cup, which now carries G1 status and $3m in prize-money.

“He is in very good form and this race has always been the target,” said Yahagi. “The anti-clockwise, flat 2100-metre track on good ground suits him very well. He doesn’t have to lead, but we would like to see him settle into a good position.”

And ominously for opponents to the full-brother to Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winner Sottass (FR), he added: “I thought he had fully matured, but in fact he is still improving.”

Habib and Syster stand out at the Vaal

February 9, 2026

Tuesday’s midweek Vaal Classic fixture might be routine on paper, but scratch beneath the surface of the bumper 10-race card and there’s proper betting meat on the bone. The smart money looks set to flow through the hands of jockeys Calvin Habib and Jeffrey Syster, with the stables of Alec Laird and Tony Peter holding several strong aces. The meeting kicks off with what shapes as one of the better betting races of the afternoon over 2000m. Aristotle (Race 1) comes into the opener off a confidence-boosting Listed success and looks primed to go on with it. The Laird-trained son of Rafeef showed grit and stamina when staying on gamely from a handy position to land the Dr Richard Maponya (formerly Drum Star) Handicap over 1800m just 17 days ago. A two-point penalty for that win looks more than fair, and as a lightly raced four-year-old stepping up to 2000m for the first time, he still appears some way ahead of the assessor. Momentum counts for plenty at this level, and Aristotle has it. Habib is likely to play a leading role throughout the afternoon, not least in Race 5 (over 1000m) where he partners Caroline Island for Tony Peter. The consistent Querari filly is good value to resume winning ways, even taking on male opposition. She chased home a smart sort in a stronger race over this course and distance last time, and a repeat of that effort should see her bang there again despite a slightly higher mark. The day’s standout wager, though, arrives late on the card in Race 9 over 1800m. Jaffa looks the right kind of horse to make a statement and earns the ‘Best Bet’ tag. Another from the Laird–Habib axis, this three-year-old son of The United States was heavily backed last time but found himself too far off the speed before flashing home for third over 1700m. That run screamed “next time” and the extra 100m should play perfectly to his strengths. He’s learning fast and rates as a progressive type worth sticking with. Syster also has a book that demands respect. His four rides include two genuine winning chances, starting with Plumbago Park for Brett Webber in Race 7 over 1200m, and extending to Cartagena in Race 8 over 2400m. The latter, Heather Adamson’s sole runner on the card, is chasing a hat-trick and looks well placed to complete the sequence if reproducing recent form over the same course and distance. Elsewhere, El Zani (Race 2) appeals as a solid follow-up for the Peter yard. The two-year-old filly shaped with plenty of promise when second on debut over the same track and trip, and she now reappears under Gavin Lerena. Natural improvement should see her go very close. Clive Robinson

Sha Tin Track Spy: Sunday, 8 February

February 7, 2026

2026 Abu Dhabi Gold Cup Contestants

February 6, 2026

Racing in the Middle East is not just growing, but surging. Further proof arrives this week with the inaugural running of the US$1 million Abu Dhabi Gold Cup, a race that will draw a field full of depth and quality of international talent rarely seen at this time of year. From its very first edition, this contest announces itself as a major new pillar on the global racing calendar. Headlining a stellar field are two familiar names to UAE racegoers: Maljoom, now trained by Michael Costa, and Quddwah, representing the powerful Simon & Ed Crisford operation. Both horses have made an immediate impact since relocating from Europe, quickly becoming flagbearers for the quality and ambition of racing in the region. For Maljoom, the Gold Cup marks the launch of his 2026 campaign and what a stage to begin on. He heads down the highway to Abu Dhabi just months after a courageous third in the Group 1 Dubai Turf, where he charged home late behind global heavyweights Romantic Warrior and Soul Rush. Formerly trained by William Haggas, Maljoom now joins Michael Costa, a stable renowned for delivering on racing’s biggest occasions. Carrying the famous colours of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, bringing success and expectation that come with them. The colours have become synonymous with elite racing in Abu Dhabi and beyond, and once again they will be central to calculations for anyone assessing this race. Sharing those colours is Quddwah, a colt who has already shown this season that he belongs at the very top. His victory in the Group 2 Zabeel Mile on debut in the region was nothing short of electric, an emphatic statement of intent. The Crisfords knew they had a serious horse when he consistently held his own against Europe’s best across the UK and France, and that belief has been swiftly vindicated on UAE soil. The Abu Dhabi Gold Cup now brings it all together. Stars from Japan, leading contenders from Europe, and the very best of the Middle East will clash on a stage befitting their talent. It is a powerful showcase, not just for these two outstanding horses, but for Abu Dhabi Racing as a whole, as the meeting is broadcast to the world and the region’s strength in depth shines firmly in the spotlight. Pat Comerford speaks with two of the principal contenders ahead of this world-class contest, as the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup positions itself to take UAE racing to the next level and announces Abu Dhabi as an unmissable destination for the global racing audience.

Straight Arron goes for gold in Centenary Vase at Sha Tin

February 6, 2026

Straight Arron (135lb) must overcome a hefty impost in Sunday’s (8 February) HK$4.2 million G3 Centenary Vase Handicap (1800m) at Sha Tin, but trainer David Hayes believes the step back in grade can prove to be a decisive factor for the contest’s highest-rated runner. Preparing to face six opponents, seven-year-old Straight Arron tops the field, rated 110 against Beauty Joy (134lb), last year’s winner Chancheng Glory (132lb), Encountered (126lb), Speed Dragon (126lb), Ensued (125lb) and Numbers (115lb). Three of the past five Centenary Vase winners have carried 115lb or less. Frankie Lor’s Four-Year-Old Classic Series aspirant Numbers, an exciting one-time victor in Hong Kong who placed at Group 1 level pre-import in Australia, carries the featherweight due to his 90-rating. Hayes, a dual Hong Kong Champion Trainer (1997/98 & 1998/99), said of Straight Arron: “I think the class will come through. If he has a good day, he can compete at this level. He’s back to his class in Group 3 racing – he’s probably a Group 3 horse.” Straight Arron was seventh and eighth, respectively, behind Romantic Warrior in the HK$40 million G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (2000m) and HK$13 million G1 Stewards’ Cup (1600m). He was fourth in successive Group 2 races beforehand. “He was a bit disappointing (last start), but he was racing against the elite. I think he will really appreciate the drop in class, and his trackwork has been good. His work on Tuesday (3 February) was very good,” Hayes said. Raced by Karen Lo, who also owns Cap Ferrat, two-time Group 2 winner Straight Arron clocked 1m 22.5s (31.4, 28.7, 22.4) at Sha Tin on Tuesday morning. The Fastnet Rock gelding has five career wins in Hong Kong for HK$21.76 million in earnings. Straight Arron’s biggest scalps are the 2023 HK$5.35 million G2 BOCHK Jockey Club Cup (2000m) and 2025 HK$5.35 million G2 Chairman’s Trophy (1600m). Dylan Browne McMonagle rides the bay from gate four on Sunday. Hayes saddles four-year-olds Fortune Boy (120lb) and Supreme Mastermind (115lb) in the Class 3 Yau Oi Handicap (1800m). “I think he’ll (Fortune Boy) step up on the weekend – he’s in great form. He’s always strong, and he has form around Invincible Ibis. I think he’s better than Class 3,” Hayes said. Fortune Boy links with Brenton Avdulla in barrier two, while Keith Yeung is on Supreme Mastermind, drawn in six, who finished a fast-closing fourth at Sha Tin two starts ago. Shamus Storm (118lb) takes aim at the Class 3 Yan Tin Handicap (1400m) for Hayes, stepping from gate six with Maxime Guyon aboard. The Shamus Award four-year-old injured his right fore ligament following his first-up fourth last October over this course and distance. Hayes said: “He got injured after his first-up run, and he had an easy time. He’s going in off one trial and a big break, so I would think whatever he does will be improved on.” Hayes also saddles Lucky Secret, All Round Winner, Ryui Kokoroe and Let’s Have Fun. Sunday’s (8 February) 11-race fixture at Sha Tin begins at 12.30pm with the Class 5 Fu Tai Handicap (1400m). By Declan Schuster

February 7 Selangor Preview By Mark Lydeamore

February 6, 2026

It has been a steady start the Banker’s Stable following the first month of the 2026 season with five winners from multiple runners and four-time winner BANKER’S EIGHTYONE is a chance to add to the tally in the 1275m Class 4B contest (Race 3). Posting four wins from twelve starts in Malaysia, the five-year-old was a fraction unlucky when finishing 3rd over 1200m here a fortnight ago. The booking of jockey Nuqman Faris can be viewed as a positive also with the senior hoop riding BANKER’S EIGHTYONE to three successive victories towards the end of last year. CHEVAL PEGASUS and WAIT U KNOW have both scored previously over the track and trip and are proven at Class 4 level. Former Australian galloper QI FU FORTUNE trialed very well behind talented sprinter NOAH KHAN here a month ago and is one to watch when he resumes for trainer HY Cheng in the 1275m Class 4A (Race 5). Starting twice in Australia for one win, the four-year-old has not raced for over twelve months but appears a likely type based on trial form. His main rival will be BANKER’S GLORY coming off a fast-finishing second behind the smart STRONG DRAGON and is a chance despite the wide draw while TAU KEH SOH will strike back soon in this grade. Another galloper who performed well at the January 27 trial session was three-year-old SUPERB WINNER, who resumes in the 1200m Open Maiden (Race 6). Winning his trial by 20 lengths on the sand, the juvenile may be looking forward to a lucrative campaign as he steps out for the first time since making his debut on July 27 last year. The race should provide a reliable form line considering he was beaten a length into 3rd placing behind Singha Bay, a progressive type currently strutting his wares against Class 3 company. Another interesting runner debuting for the Buffalo Stable is NAVARRE, trained by Simon Dunderdale which has also performed well at the trials recently. With strong provincial Victorian form to his credit (6 placings from 12 starts), the Written Tycoon four-year-old is a definite proposition first up since April. PACIFIC ENERGY and SECRET WONDER filled the quinella in a 1200m Class 3 contest three weeks ago and the pair will clash again in Race 7 this Saturday. PACIFIC ENERGY has progressed nicely following two wins from six starts locally and form pole position should receive all the favours in the run. SECRET WONDER carved out a fast final section to finish only a neck behind after sprinting from midfield and returned to the form he displayed when scoring at his first two Malaysian starts last season. BANKER’S VICTORY has performed well in three local runs, including a Class 4 victory in December and is coming off a 3rd placing in a strong Supreme B contest won by Latin Legend here on January 11. Unfortunately for those punters which backed FORTUNE WHEEL here three weeks ago, they were left without a collect but it may pay to stick with the seven-year-old in the 1400m Class 4A (Race 10). Pulling up with a respiratory issue, FORTUNE WHEEL finished out of the placings but his trial win over group winner Lucky Magic during the week places him in good stead for a winning return. FLYING NEMO is close to breaking his Malaysian duck and is perfectly suited dropping back to Class 4 grade while SMART CAT looks a progressive type and is coming off an impressive 1200m Open Novice win here four weeks ago.

Salani Kahle to master his fate

February 6, 2026

The first race on the card at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Sunday, 8th February, gets underway at 11:35pm, and it looks to be a two-horse race between Green Energy and Buffalo King Cody. Green Energy, for Adam Azzie and Serino Moodley, caught the eye on debut when finishing a close second at this venue. Buffalo King Cody is improving with racing and should provide plenty of cheek all the way home. He is from the visiting Tony Peter stable. A good race opens the meeting. Race two, a Maiden Juvenile Plate over 1000m, is at 12:05pm and the firm first pick is the Mike Miller-trained Japura. She is improving with racing experience and looks cherry-ripe for victory today. Sovereign Gem is the selection to take first prize in the third race. She is trained by Alyson Wright and will be ridden by Keagan De Melo. This filly has been catching the eye and her last effort was very good — the one to beat. Peach Melba and Past Is Prologue should fight out the finish of the fourth race on the card, with Peach Melba being the narrow first choice. Calvin Habib rides the filly for the first time. There is a possible banker in the fifth from the Nathan Kotzen barn — Etzebeth. He caught the eye on debut, gets the best draw, tries extra distance, and meets an average field. Salani Kahle has grabbed the attention of many as a very talented and progressive colt from the Gareth Van Zyl stable. He lines up in the sixth race but will start from the widest draw. His maiden win and post-maiden win have been ultra-impressive and he can be followed with great interest. The seventh race over 1750m sees the horse drawn at gate one, French Trip, as the first selection. This son of Trippi ran an absolute cracker in the Michael Roberts Stakes last time and can be given serious each-way claims. He will get valuable weight off his back from claiming apprentice Mxolisi Mbutho, who partnered him last time. Talking of the Michael Roberts Stakes, the winner of that race, Down By The River, lines up in the eighth and has every chance of following up. He impressed when trotting up and beating Queue Wing by nearly three lengths. Talented stayer King Pelles is the obvious danger and can be expected to serve up far more than he did in the Betway Summer Cup on the Highveld on the 29th of November. Amor Fati and Isivivane have strong place chances and must be included in most betting perms. Races nine and ten are competitive, and it is advisable to include as many runners as the budget will allow. All in all, another competitive but exciting day’s racing awaits at Hollywoodbets Scottsville. With ten races on offer, there are plenty of betting opportunities. Punt and play well! Warren Lenferna

Guineas Day sets Classic Agenda at Turffontein

February 6, 2026

The Highveld’s autumn narrative begins in earnest on Saturday 7 February at Turffontein Standside, where a competitive nine-race card is framed around the opening salvos of South Africa’s two great three-year-old journeys. The Grade 2 Gauteng Guineas and Grade 2 Gauteng Fillies Guineas, both over a demanding 1600m, launch the SA Triple Crown and the Wilgerbosdrift SA Triple Tiara respectively. This is the stage where reputations are either rubber-stamped or ruthlessly punctured, and where betting markets often lag behind the deeper classic picture. The road ahead is clearly defined; Saturday 7 March brings the Grade 1 SA Classic and Wilgerbosdrift SA Fillies Classic over 1800m, before the ultimate stamina tests on Saturday 4 April in the Grade 1 SA Derby and Grade 2 Wilgerbosdrift SA Oaks over a searching 2450m. With a R2-million bonus awaiting any Triple Crown winner in 2026, and R1-million on offer to a filly who can sweep the Triple Tiara, these are not merely prestige races, they are long-term betting puzzles with serious upside. The Wilgerbosdrift Gauteng Fillies Guineas (Race 6) revolves around Eastern Cape star Golden Palm, who sets the standard on her Highveld reappearance. Alan Greeff’s Champion Two-Year-Old filly landed the Grade 2 Fillies Nursery at Turffontein last season and returns to the ‘Big T’ after a slightly deflating sixth as the odds-on favourite in the Grade 1 Cape Fillies Guineas at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth – her first experience of a left-hand bend, so that run is easily forgiven. Golden Palm is unbeaten in three right-handed starts, including victories at Fairview and Hollywoodbets Greyville, the latter coming in the Grade 1 Thekwini Stakes at the end of last term. Back on a right-hand turn, drawn in pole position, and partnered by Craig Zackey, she looks primed to control matters. Her pedigree adds further intrigue: her dam Croisette is a half-sister to 2016 Fillies Classic and Oaks winner Juxtapose, suggesting the Triple Tiara bonus may not be just a pipe dream. She will not have things her own way. Hazy Dazy brings proven course-and-distance form after winning the Grade 3 Fillies Mile, while runner-up Charge It has franked that form by landing the Listed War Of Athena Handicap. Western Cape raider Lowveld Lily, Justin Snaith’s sole runner on the card, finished a length ahead of Golden Palm in the Cape Fillies Guineas and demands respect. The Gauteng Guineas (Race 7) for colts and geldings hinges on whether Trust can bounce back. If he reproduces his Grade 2 Dingaans performance over course and distance, when beating subsequent Grade 1 Cape Guineas winner Jan Van Goyen, he should be very hard to contain. His below-par effort as a beaten odds-on favourite in the Grade 3 Got The Greenlight Stakes over 1400m is a concern. However, the extra 200m suits and he is also 2kg better off with re-opposing rivals Splittheeights, his last-start conqueror, and the latter’s stablemate One Eye On Vegas (runner-up in that race). Sean Tarry, as ever, looms large. Tin Pan Alley improved markedly with a tongue-tie fitted last time (retained), while unbeaten Grand Empire was only just denied in a Listed course-and-distance contest against older horses – his first defeat in four starts and a serious Guineas trial. Away from the Classics, the standout betting proposition on the card looks to be Callmegetrix in Race 8 over 1600m. This Tarry-trained filly won a similar course-and-distance race last time and a three-point penalty is unlikely to halt her progress. Mickaëlle Michel retains the ride and her 1.5kg allowance only sweetens the deal. Clive Robinson

United Nation can keep on rolling

February 5, 2026

United Nation has been flawless on the Hollywoodbets Greyville poly, unbeaten in four starts, and Darryl Moore looks to have found the right race for a fifth straight win when the gelding heads the card in the B Stakes over 1000m. Drawn widest in the nine-horse field, he again benefits from Mxolisi Mbuto’s 2.5kg claim, giving him a handy galloping weight.

The main threat could be Umzingeli Wenyathi from the Clinton Binda yard. A rare Cape raider, he won first up on the poly last time out, has only once finished out of the money in nine starts, and retains 4kg claimer Sifiso Bungane. Poly specialist Good Traveller, a seven-time winner, arrives off a narrow victory but may prefer further, while Jet Legacy brings solid turf form back to the poly.

The card opens with Higher Love, who has improved on the poly and was narrowly beaten last start from a wide draw. Saudi Sweep disappointed on turf last time after good poly form, while Cape debutant Whatastar could improve locally.

Skyline Bell showed marked progress at her second run and makes her poly debut in the second, with steady improver Praise De La Rey also respected. Skipper O’Malley narrowly beat Skyline Bell previously but may be more exposed.

In the first leg of the Pick 6, Black Platina enjoys course-and-distance credentials, while Levitator returns to his preferred surface despite a wide draw. Takeyourbestshot is overdue but has been unlucky at the gates.

Rahhabba has come on nicely since arriving in KZN and has a good draw in a competitive fourth, with in-form Happy Fortune and consistent De Vlugge also featuring. Amafort looks overdue in the fifth, while Mystique Rouge can reverse placings with Izibulo on better terms.

Queue Wing has improved in blinkers in the sixth and looks well weighted, with Wild At War and lightly raced Clever Trevor also in the mix. The finale is tricky, but Acacia’s Blossom, Indecent Proposal and improving Rock Music all have claims.

Overall, a competitive poly card, but United Nation remains the one they all have to beat.

JOCKEY SPOTLIGHT: MATTHEW POON

February 4, 2026

Take us back to the very beginning. Do you remember your first winner, and what emotions hit you crossing the line that day? Yes, a horse called Sutanoc. Can’t believe that I can got my first win in my first meeting! It really was an incredible feeling. Hong Kong is one of the toughest riding environments in the world. What was the moment you realised you genuinely belonged at this level? Everything happened very fast. They are very competitive, aggressive and sharp. Very proud to be amongst this talented group. Every jockey has a ride they still replay in their mind. What’s the greatest moment you’ve experienced in the saddle so far, and why does it stand above the rest? I would say my first Group 2 winner – STRAIGHT ARRON. Completed within my plan and won by a small margin. When the pressure is at its highest – big crowd, big race, small margins – what’s going through your mind in the final 400 metres? I only feel the pressure at the parade ring. Since jump on the horse then all good. Going to the final 400m, I just stay focused and alert. How has riding in Hong Kong shaped you differently compared to other racing jurisdictions, both technically and mentally? Riding against with them I must continuously hone my riding skills to stay competitive. Learn how they ride and determine the strategy before the race and to make a quick decision during the race. The intense atmosphere and high expectations from both owners and fans can foster a resilient mentality. Learn how to cope with pressure and maintain focus under stress. Are there certain trainers, horses, or riding styles that have played a major role in your development as a jockey? Richard Jolly who was my master when I was in Adelaide, Australia. He probably was the major role in my career. He taught me how to read and ride a race. Setbacks are part of the sport. What’s been the toughest period of your career to date, and what did it teach you about resilience? After becoming a professional jockey, it was the most difficult time for me. When I didn’t have an allowance anymore, I needed to regain the support and trust of trainers and the owners. The only way I could do that is work hard, stay positive and rebuild support step by step. Away from race day, what does a typical week look like for you in terms of preparation, fitness, and studying races? Doing physical therapy, doing exercise to control weight, and watching replays. Looking ahead, what ambitions are driving you right now? Is it premierships, Group 1 success, riding internationally, or something deeper? I got a few things want to achieve – Group 1 success of course, represent Hong Kong to ride overseas, enhancing the strength and status of local Hong Kong jockeys in the world. When your career is eventually looked back on, how would you like Matthew Poon the jockey to be remembered within Hong Kong racing? I hope to achieve some success in Hong Kong horse racing so that future local Hong Kong jockeys can take it a step further.

Happy Valley Track Spy: Wednesday, 4 February

February 4, 2026

Last-start winners value for follow-up Vaal victories

February 4, 2026

Punters hunting value on the Highveld’s midweek fare on Thursday 5 February are spoiled for choice at Vaal’s Classic track where an honest eight-race card features several last-start winners who look ideally placed to go back-to-back, alongside a couple of Gavin Lerena rides whose progress it could pay to follow. The follow-up theme kicks off in Race 4 over 1800m with Dimako’s Jet, who did everything right when scoring over the same distance on New Year’s Day. The lightly raced daughter of Ideal World finished off strongly under Muzi Yeni to account for Future Date, who is now 1kg worse off after franking the form with a subsequent 2000m victory. Yeni’s decision to stick with Dimako’s Jet is a telling pointer. Weichong Marwing’s mare absorbed a five-point penalty for that win but she remains progressive, especially with blinkers – worn in her last two starts – sharpening her focus. She looks like a confident banker in exotic bets. A similar profile belongs to Merryweather who lines up in Race 5 over 1800m. Johan Janse van Vuuren’s improving Gimmethegreenlight filly was good value when beating male opposition over 1600m last time and a modest two-point rise shouldn’t stop the roll. This is her first attempt beyond 1600m, but her pedigree screams stamina (her dam is a full sister to 2016 SA Derby runner-up Rocketball) suggesting she’s only just getting started. Off a career-high mark, she still rates a value follow-up play. Never Never Land announced himself as one to follow when justifying solid market support under Lerena four weeks ago. The Stuart Pettigrew-trained Ideal World gelding quickened nicely to win over 1200m and the extra 250m in Race 7 looks tailor-made. There are three other last-start winners in the line-up, but none with the same scope for improvement – save perhaps recent maiden scorer Gulf Of America. Lerena staying loyal is another box ticked. In Race 6 over 1600m, Lerena also reunites with the ultra-consistent Max The Magician, and the return to 1600m could be decisive. Roy Magner’s charge was outsprinted late over 1200m last time when a close-up fourth under Yeni, but the longer trip, a plum draw in gate 2 and Lerena back in the irons make for a compelling winning recipe. Clive Robinson

Kamchatka ready to erupt

February 3, 2026

There is nothing anti-climactic about Wednesday’s Hollywoodbets Kenilworth card, with a competitive 10-race programme highlighted by the Clapham Stakes (1600m) in race 8.

Kamchatka headlines the meeting after a sharp drop in class following two strong stakes efforts. She finished 1,5 lengths behind Cape Town Met runner Legal Counsel over this course and distance before holding her own in the One Voucher Victress Stakes over 1800m. Despite top weight of 60kg, she looks well placed under Serino Moodley for Andre Nel. Notably, she is the only runner older than three in the race, and recent three-year-old form appears some way below the best fillies seen earlier in the season.

Beach Verse continues to improve steadily and remains unbeaten outside the top four. While she has faced modest opposition, her pedigree—by Vercingetorix out of Beach Beauty—demands respect. Educator is another with claims after a convincing last-start win, where she beat Boozy Suzie with something in hand. With Craig Zackey aboard, further progress is possible.

Race 7 sees Empire State as the top choice. Now third run back from a seven-month break, he shaped encouragingly when fourth behind Demanding Dave and should be nearing peak fitness. Three Tigers, Gold Giboski and North Point are promising sprinters who will be well tested here.

Earlier on the card, Sweet Green and Hero’s Journey look the main players in the 1000m opener, with Sweet Green’s early speed possibly decisive. Swift Serenity appeals in race 2, taking on males with a weight concession and Gavin Lerena aboard.

Cantona is expected to build on a surprise debut second in race 3, while Ferryman’s eye-catching debut makes him one to watch in race 4, boasting elite family connections.

Viva’s Liberté returns from a break in race 5 and is highly regarded despite this being a low-pressure run. Supreme Fate stands out as one of the best bets in race 9, while Flying South is a tentative selection in the closing event.

Hot Sauce is an Enchanting Choice

February 2, 2026

Trainer Alan Greeff and stable jockey Richard Fourie have had a quiet time of late. Punters were getting used to three or four winners a meeting but it has dried up this month. Every trainer goes through quiet times and once in a while it does happen to the Eastern Cape champion trainer. That should also start to change very soon and they can have a couple of winners on the Fairview Polytrack on Tuesday. It can start as early as Race 3, a Pinnacle Stakes over 2000m, where Greeff has four of the seven runners. Best of them is clearly Enchanting Choice, booked to jockey Kendall Minnie at the moment. This five-year-old mare is carded to run on Friday 30 January but do not be surprised if Greeff pulls her out for Friday and runs her in this instead. A change of riders could also come into effect. The Rafeef mare has been very good in her two starts on the Polytrack, winning once and finished a close-up third to Splicethemainbrace. The step up to 2000m on Tuesday should play to her strength as she packs a decent finish. Greeff does have decent back-up in the form of First Wish, the ride of Andrew Fortune, Walkonthewildside (Richard Fourie) and Green Isle (Xolane Ndlovu). None of Enchanting Choice’s stable companions would be surprise winners. Filly Hot Sauce represents the Fourie-Greeff combination in Race 7, a MR 86 Handicap for over 1200m. The well-bred three-year-old filly won on debut and has not been disgraced in her three starts since then. The daughter of Canford Cliffs returned from a break and found some speedy fillies and mares a bit quicker than her on the day but was reportedly coughing so that run is easily ignored. She chased home a fast filly in Danish Dynamite in her only run on this surface and that form is good enough to suggest Hot Sauce is worth a bet. Once again Greeff does have back-up in the form of much-improved Happy Wives. If nothing has panned out until the last race it might pay to go each-way on Palancar. Trainer Cliffie Miller has his runners in good shape and Palancar is a course-and-distance winner. He has cracked pole position draw, and his last run is best ignored. Clive Robinson

Form Sheets For Singapore Customers

Japan Express Form (Funabashi) – Friday, February 13

February 11, 2026

France Express Form & Race Previews (Chantilly) – Thursday, February 12

February 11, 2026

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RACE 1: DU ROND DU MANEGE STAKES (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1600M – TIME: 18:48 PRIZE MONEY: EUR24700 Lord Clover (IRE) 200,000 Euros purchase as a yearling. 3YO colt by Siyouni out of Lady Frankel who is making his debut. His dam was Group 1 placed. Can win on debut. Libeccio Wind (IRE) A 3YO colt by Kingman out of Hibaayeb who is making his debut. Half brother to Group 1 winner Wuheida. His Dam won a Group 1 at Ascot. Can be a real threat on debut. Khozan A 3YO colt by Zoustar out of Farmah who is making his debut. His Dam was a Group 3 winner in Italy. Has been supplemented. Can contest the finish. Magnus (IRE) A 3YO colt by Footstepsinthesand out of Maygold who is making his debut. His mother never won a race after three starts. Can make the frame. RACE 2: CRICKET BALL STAKES (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1900M – TIME: 19:21 PRIZE MONEY: EUR24700 Hypercore In good form and finished fourth in a Listed at Deauville over 1800m on 26 November . Returns from a break but can win if fit enough. Swinguer (FR) Very consistent and was runner-up in a Listed at this track over 2000m on 27 October . Returns from a break but should contest the finish. Wakaburn (FR) Returned to form and was third in a Class 2 Condition over this track and trip on 21 January. Can be competitive once again. Chaumiere De Pre (FR) A winner of a Class 2 Condition over this course and distance on 21 January. Capable of making the frame. RACE 3: MAXIME GARCIA CLAIMING STAKES (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1900M – TIME: 19:54 PRIZE MONEY: EUR18200 Villa Adrienne (IRE) In good shape and was runner-up in a Claimer at Pornichet-La-Baule over 2000m on 27 January. Can go one place better . Must Be Crackers (FR) Not reliable and finished sixth in a Claimer over this track and trip on 5 February. Did win before that and can bounce back to score. Espronceda (IRE) In good form and was fourth in a Condition at Pau over 2000m on 18 January. Should challenge for top honours. Sede Vacante (FR) Showed improvement when fourth in a Claimer at this track over 1600m on 31 January. Can be competitive once again. RACE 4: DES GAZONS DE COYE STAKES (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1600M – TIME: 20:27 PRIZE MONEY: EUR24700 Morgana Gold (IRE) A 3YO filly by Too Darn Hot out of Moonlight And Gold who is making her debut. Well-bred and can score. Edaja (FR) A 3YO filly by Siyouni out of Edisa who is making her debut. Her Dam won 3 of her 12 starts and was placed in a Listed. Can go close. Miss Bear (FR) A 3YO filly by Kodi Bear out of Munajaah who is making her debut. A Grand daughter of a Group 1 placed mare. Can be competitive. Zarkyana (FR) A 3YO filly by Zarak out of Armure Bleue who is making her debut. Her Dam won her only start. Can be a threat. RACE 5: DE LA ROUTE BOURBON MAIDEN STAKES (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1600M – TIME: 21:12 PRIZE MONEY: EUR16500 Pontos (FR) Solid run in third spot over 1500m at Deauville in a Maiden on 29 December . Bright winning chance. Inmate Finished fourth over 1800m at Deauville in a Maiden on 30 January. Should be in the firing line. Alavesa (IRE) Runner up over 1600m at Pornichet in a Maiden on 24 January. In good form and should run well. Racing Green (FR) Not beaten far in fourth over 1600m at Craon in a Maiden on 11 June 2025. Can run into the minor money. RACE 6: DU CARREFOUR PAPILLON CLAIMING STAKES (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1300M – TIME: 21:47 PRIZE MONEY: EUR18200 Rastrellare (IRE) Not seen to best effect in fourteen over 1500m at Deauville in a Listed on 3 December 2025. Down in class and should produce a big effort. Pradaro Finished eighth over 1100m at Fontainebleau in a Class 1 on 22 November 2025. Winning claims in this division. Aleksine (FR) Below par run in tenth over 1600m at Chantilly in a Class 3 Divided Handicap on 5 February. Better than latest and can run well. Shinning Ocean (FR) Finished eighth over 1600m at Chantilly in a Class 3 Claimer on 5 February. Will strip fitter and can feature. RACE 7: DE LASSY STAKES (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1300M – TIME: 22:22 PRIZE MONEY: EUR24700 Shiawase (FR) Narrowly denied in second spot over 1600m at Chantilly in a Class 1 on 19 December 2025. Strong contender for top honors. Fire Rebel (FR) Winner over 1300m at Deauville in a Class 2 Divided Handicap on 30 January. Solid campaigner who should go close. The Angel King Winner over 1400m at ParisLongchamp in a Class 3 Handicap on 19 October 2025. Include in all bets. Talentuoso (USA) Solid run in third over 1300m at Deauville in a Class 2 Divided Handicap on 30 January. Each way claims. RACE 8: DU CARREFOUR LAVERSIN STAKES (FIBRESAND TRACK) – 1500M – TIME: 22:57 PRIZE MONEY: EUR17400 Freja (FR) Finished a close up fourth over 1500m at Deauville in a Class 3 Claimer on 16 January. Bright winning claims. Regalien (FR) Fair run in fifth spot over 1300m at Deauville in a Class 2 Divided Handicap on 30 January. In good form and will go close. Eaglehawk (FR) Not seen to best effect in fourteen over 1600m at Chantilly in a Class 3 Divided Handicap on 27 December 2025. Very capable sort who can bounce back to best. Aversa (FR) Finished eleventh over 1400m at Compiegne in a Class 3 Handicap on 24 September 2025. Has shown and can feature.

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