Lucky Sam Gor Aims for Classic Series Slot with Sha Tin Victory Bid

Lucky Sam Gor Makes Bold Bid for Classic Series Slot at Sha Tin

Trainer Cody Mo, currently enjoying a rich vein of form with winners at the last two Hong Kong meetings, is poised to add another victory at Sha Tin on Saturday. His charge, the progressive four-year-old Nyx Gluck, lines up in the Tvb Scoop Handicap at 8.50am over seven furlongs, looking fairly treated based on a recent close third-place finish behind Rising Phoenix on the same course and distance just two weeks ago.

Nyx Gluck's Promising Prospects

Since breaking his maiden in Hong Kong back in December, Nyx Gluck has encountered some unfortunate luck, but with a favorable draw in stall eight and a smooth trip anticipated, this could be his moment to shine once again. Intriguingly, Mo has enlisted the services of jockey Hugh Bowman for this ride. The duo boasts an impressive 50% win and place strike rate when partnering this season, earning Bowman the nickname 'Head Waiter' for his ability to deliver horses late in races.

Solid Car, with Zac Purton in the saddle, appears to be the main threat, though his winning record is inconsistent. Other contenders include Genius Baby and Always Fluke, but Nyx Gluck's recent form and advantageous conditions make him a standout selection.

Lucky Sam Gor's Classic Series Ambitions

In the day's finale, the Tvb Miss Hong Kong Pageant Handicap at 10.00am over a mile, the highly progressive Lucky Sam Gor seeks a hat-trick of victories. A win here is crucial, as it would likely secure his place in the remaining two races of the prestigious 4-Y-O Classic Series. A penalty from this race would elevate his rating into the 80s, solidifying his position for the upcoming Hong Kong Derby.

Under the guidance of trainer Mark Newnham, this son of Press Statement has made remarkable strides this season, climbing from a rating of 45 to 76 and securing four wins from seven starts. His last two outings resulted in narrow victories, achieved despite challenging draws in stall 10 on both occasions. Now, with a much kinder draw in stall three, Lucky Sam Gor is perfectly positioned to capitalize.

While Without Compare has shown promise in both races to date and warrants attention, on paper, this contest appears winnable for Lucky Sam Gor. A victory would not only extend his winning streak but also realize his owners' dreams of competing in the Classic Series.