HIGH TIME FOR ROMANTIC LAOS

Dec 26 Hong Kong (Happy Valley) form analysis

RACE 1 (1,200M)

1 Speedy Smartie makes his Class 5 debut. After being drawn wide in his first two runs this season and producing a luckless fourth last time, he now has the benefit of barrier 1 and appears poised to win.

5 Super Charizzard was unsuited by the 1,400m trip at Sha Tin last start. The drop back in distance boosts his prospects.

3 Ever Smart signalled that a maiden victory is near with a solid third in his first attempt last time. 12 E Glory can make good use of barrier 2 to position himself well in running and poses as a genuine knockout chance.

RACE 2 (1,000M)

5 Ka Ying Resilience has shown potential. On his fourth attempt, he looks ready to secure his maiden win after trialling impressively since his narrow second first-up. Barrier 3 provides all the favours.

9 Parents' Love is in excellent form, having broken his maiden two starts ago and followed it with a narrow third.

1 Lean Master is overdue for a win this season, having placed in three of his four starts. He should enjoy an ideal run from barrier 4.

7 Club Ace has shown potential despite some signs of greenness in his trials. While he may benefit from the experience, he deserves respect.

RACE 3 (2,200M)

8 Sharpen Bright returns to his preferred track and distance, boasting two wins and second place at the course and trip. With a light weight, he shapes as a strong winning chance.

5 Noisy Boy looks ready to progress after a closing seventh over the extended mile last time, where he raced too keenly. The step up in trip appears ideal, given his solid 2,000m form in Australia.

1 Natural Storm carries top weight but is a proven performer over Happy Valley's 2,200m, having missed the top three just once from nine attempts.

10 Winning Steps has been in excellent form with two wins and a third from six starts. Expect him to be finishing strongly.

RACE 4 (1,200M)