SIMPLY MAVERICK FIT AND READY

Oct 16 Hong Kong (Happy Valley) form analysis

RACE 1 (1,200M)

3 Falcon Court made his Class 5 debut last start from the widest barrier (No. 12) and was ridden back, finishing 10th. But it was a better run than it reads. Gate 1 should allow him to race handier, and some of his previous Class 4 runs suggest he can win this.

1 Hero Star drops back into Class 5, where he has one win from two starts. With Hugh Bowman taking the reins, he poses a serious threat.

5 Speedy Chariot is ready to win since making the class drop; however, the transition from barrier 1 to 12 looks awkward. Still, with Zac Purton in the saddle, he has the right jockey to navigate him.

12 Wind Speeder will benefit from a hot tempo, and his last-start effort was commendable, finishing strongly in sixth.

RACE 2 (1,000M)

1 Ma Comet looks ready to break through after a solid third-place finish first-up, where he raced wide without cover but still finished less than a length behind the winner. His trial win in between runs was particularly eye-catching and, despite drawing barrier 10, Purton should position him well to ensure he gets a favourable run.

7 Roaring Bebe has been trialling and should enjoy a sweet run under Brenton Avdulla from barrier 3.

11 Happy Horse returns to Happy Valley, where he is more suited, after a respectable effort at Sha Tin. Although his Class 4 record is a concern, his early speed should keep him in contention.

5 Silver Spurs appears to have trained on during the off-season, as his trial performances showed improvement and, from barrier 1, he will have every chance to find the necessary luck in running.

RACE 3 (1,650M)