Hong Kong form analyst Xavier Blair shares his views on each horse in tomorrows 2010 Hong Kong International Vase.
1. Americain
2010 Melbourne Cup winner also a two time winner over the mile and a half including the
Group 3 Geelong Cup. Jockey Gerard Mosse has an imposing record on the French stayer,
winning 5 times from 6 rides. Even better on rain affected ground but still looks mighty hard
Americain - sportpix.com.au
to beat.
Odds: 3.60
2. Viva Pataca
8yo who remarkably still remains his zest for racing and is one of Hong Kong’s most
successful horses ever. Should slide over and race handy from his wide draw and can
definitely hold on for a placing.
Odds: 7.50
3. Jaguar Mail
Japanese raider who ran 4th in this race last year and gets Craig Williams back on board who
rode him to victory in the G1 Tenno Sho (Spring) back in May earlier this year. Good effort in
the G1 Japan Cup last start and can easily improve on his 4th from last year.
Odds: 6.00
4. Jakkalberry
Italian colt who races best when saved up for one late burst. Is a two time winner over the
2400m but was beaten a long way at York behind Rip Van Winkle in the G1 International
Stakes back in August this year. Fancy he will find this too tough.
Odds: 26.00
5. Mastery
Godolphin runner who won the G1 St Leger back in 2009 beating Kite Wood by just under a
length. He ran a close up 5th in the Dubai World Cup this year and from the draw he should
receive every chance. A live hope.
Odds: 8.00
6. Winchester
American runner who ran a brave 4th in the G1 Breeders Cup Turf Classic last start behind
Dangerous Midge. He likes to be smothered and saved for a late sprint in his races and this
draw suits him. With any luck in the straight he can run on and find the frame.
Odds: 17.00
7. Indian Days
Only fair UK form before winning a G2 event in Turkey beating German Derby winner
Buzzword. Fancy he needs to step up a few notches to be competitive here.
Odds: 34.00
8. Mr Medici
Classy local galloper returning from a solid 6th in the G1 Caulfield Cup and then didn’t stay
the two mile when 10th in the Melbourne Cup. From a wide draw he should be able to come
across with Viva Pataca and be very dangerous in the straight. Big chance if he runs up to his
Caulfield Cup run.
Odds: 21.00
9. Redwood
4yo colt by High Chaparral who had some handy from behind the likes of Harbinger and Sans
Frontieres in the UK. G1 winner in Canada two starts back and excels over the trip. Good
value runner.
Odds: 14.00
10. King Dancer
Another locally trained galloper who won the HK Derby trial then ran well again with a 5th in
the HK Derby. Would prefer the sting out but has Whyte up and can race handy and prove a
force at the business end.
Odds: 17.00
11. Mighty High
Likes to lead in his races and gets every chance to do so from the draw. Untried over the
distance and willing to risk in this class.
Odds: N/A
12. Crystal Capella
5yo mare from the UK who has an imposing record. The winner of 7 races from 11 starts and
has only missed a top 2 finish once. In the astute Sir Michael Stoute camp and coming off an
easy G2 victory at Newmarket in October. Sure to run well.
Odds: 5.50
13. Board Meeting
French filly who likes to race up on the speed. If she gets into an Early speed battle with
Mighty High then her chances of winning would lower greatly. Early tempo critical.
Odds: 26.00
14. Joshua Tree
Ran 3rd to Rewilding at York back in August in a G3 event but more recently battled when
10th in the Japan Cup. Improving 3yo who can measure up to these.
Odds: 11.00
Written by Xavier Blair
