Hugh Bowman says racing manners are pivotal to Helios Express’ hopes of clinching the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (3 March) as John Size’s charge bids to enhance an imposing record.
The winner of five of seven Hong Kong starts, including the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m) last month, Helios Express steps beyond 1600m for the first time in his career and, while Bowman is supremely confident of success this Sunday, he has one caveat.
“He (Helios Express) has got that beautiful tactical speed, but it’s just important that he really does relax. I would like to see him relax a little better than he did in the mile to the 1800m and looking forward to a (BMW Hong Kong) Derby (2000m) as well,” Bowman said.
“Although there’s no question he’s the best horse in the race, and he’s got the class advantage, it is still important that he does things right and switches off and, if he does that, he’ll be too good for them.
“But if he doesn’t do it (relaxes) and wastes energy in the run and over-races, which is a possibility, then he’s going to find it tougher as he gets over longer trips.”