Purton Sticks with Robot Star in Sha Tin Mile Feature

Purton Maintains Faith in Manfred Man-Trained Robot Star for Mile Test

Champion jockey Zac Purton has demonstrated remarkable loyalty by electing to ride the Manfred Man-trained Robot Star once again in Saturday's Long Valley Handicap at Sha Tin. The race, scheduled for 7.30am over a mile, represents a significant step up in class for the promising four-year-old.

Recent Form and Penalty Considerations

Purton and Robot Star combined to secure a dramatic victory just three weeks ago, coming from a mile back to defeat Strathpeffer in a thrilling finish over seven furlongs. That success has resulted in a six-pound penalty for the gelding, adding an extra layer of difficulty to this assignment.

The field for the Long Valley Handicap appears notably stronger on paper, with several credible contenders including The Golden Knight, Blazing Wukong, Smart Fat Cat, and Ping Hai Comet. Despite the increased competition, Purton's post-race comments following their previous win were particularly revealing.

Jockey Confidence and Draw Challenge

The eight-times champion jockey was adamant that Robot Star had been crying out for the mile trip and performed exceptionally well to triumph when circumstances were against him. This insider perspective from one of the world's leading riders provides compelling evidence for the horse's potential improvement.

Purton will need to overcome the challenge of starting from gate nine, but given his extraordinary form that saw him ride a staggering twenty winners last month alone, his confidence in Robot Star's capabilities carries significant weight with racing enthusiasts.

California Waves Poised for Breakthrough Victory

Later on the card, the Cody Mo-trained California Waves appears to have been presented with an ideal opportunity to secure his first metropolitan victory. The son of Too Darn Hot lines up in the Kat O Handicap at 9.15am, also over a mile.

Recent Near Misses and Favourable Draw

California Waves has gone close to victory on several recent occasions, most notably when encountering significant traffic problems from an outside draw during his last start. Despite these difficulties, he managed to finish a close-up fifth behind Invincible Ibis, demonstrating considerable ability.

This time, the gelding has drawn the highly favourable gate one, which should allow him to secure the run of the race. From this perfect position, his impressive finishing kick could prove decisive in the closing stages of the contest.

Super Express Given Final Chance to Deliver

The John Size-trained Super Express receives what many consider his final opportunity to justify the stable's high regard when he contests the Yan Chau Tong Handicap at 9.50am over seven furlongs.

Disappointing Returns for Supporters

The four-year-old has consistently disappointed his backers, starting as odds-on favourite in four of his five career starts while managing just a single victory. His seasonal reappearance a fortnight ago saw him chase home Akashvani without ever looking likely to prevail.

Potential for Improvement

There remains a strong belief within racing circles that this son of Ten Sovereigns possesses ability far superior to his current handicap mark. The run two weeks ago should have brought him on fitness-wise, and he now has no legitimate excuses for underperforming.

This represents a crucial test for Super Express, with many hoping he can finally demonstrate the talent that has long been anticipated by his connections.