Chris So’s promising galloper Top Dragon returns quickly to action in the HK$3.12 million Class 2 The Year Of The Horse Cup Handicap (1600m) at Sha Tin on Thursday (19 February). The gelding finished a creditable fifth in the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m) on 1 February, the opening leg of the Four-Year-Old Classic Series, and connections are keen to capitalise on his lightweight advantage for a strong start to the Year of the Horse.
Reflecting on the Hong Kong Classic Mile, So said: “I think it was a fine performance and the owner was happy. At least the horse proved he was competitive over 1600 (metres). Unfortunately, he was crowded near the 150m mark, and without that incident he might have finished third, or even closer. The winner, Little Paradise, was very strong and I didn’t think we could beat him in that race.”
Explaining the quick back-up, So added: “Top Dragon has continued to improve. Last time he raced under set weights, but in The Year Of The Horse Cup, with the rating band set at 105–80, he only needs to carry 118lb, which is a big plus.
“He pulled up well after his last run; he has maintained good form and is eating well. He’s honest, easy to train, and the type of horse any trainer would love to have. Maxime (Guyon) told me after the last race that we should go again, and we all hope he can take another step forward this time.”
