After a testing start to his 2025/26 campaign, Pierre Ng is looking to Mugen (115lb) for a change of fortune in the HK$5.35 million G2 Premier Bowl Handicap (1200m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (26 October).
A combination of factors could allow the seven-year-old to recapture the form that saw him post four wins and four placings during his five-year-old campaign, including solid race preparation and the installation of new headgear. Karis Teetan will once again take the ride and has been in the saddle for all of Mugen’s wins.
“His preparation has been good. He’s had two trials with the blinkers on. He travelled better than he has done without them, so he’ll be a lot closer,” Ng said. “Last trial, he just didn’t get a clear run, but he trialled on really well. Karis is very happy with him. So we’re looking forward to Sunday.”
The fourth-year handler has endured an unusually slow start to the season with just one win to show for his 78 outings so far. But the 42-year-old, who was involved in one of the most dramatic title battles in recent memory during the 2023/24 campaign, losing the premiership to Francis Lui in the final race of the season, is hopeful Mugen can spur an upturn in his fortunes.
The chestnut gelding appeared to have lost his way last season during a campaign that began with a failed assault on the G1 Sprinters Stakes (1200m) at Nakayama, Japan, and went unplaced in all six Hong Kong starts.
“It took him a while (to recover) – after the Japan trip,” Ng said. “He needed the time to get back in form. He went alright towards the end of last season, but he just needs some gear to help him now. So he’s finally found his momentum again.”
Minimum weight and barrier nine will necessitate a change of tactics for the son of Deep Field on Sunday, something Ng is confident the horse can overcome.
“He’s drawn nine, so hopefully we get some cover around the midfield – instead of being at the back, like usual – and just wait for the moment in the straight. Hopefully, he gets a clear run,” he added.
“The key will be the weight – he’s carrying the light weight, and I think we just have to build up his momentum. Hopefully, he’ll get a more forward position and then he can have a good finish.”
