PEARL CHAMPION (Sweet In Defeat) was an excellent runner-up at his most recent run (his second start for popular South African trainer Tony Millard) behind Happy Force. He settled behind midfield in the running and cam his final-600m (35.03) in good time. As always his lack of gate speed and where he maps is a concern though. I DO (also from SID file) was another that impressed when running a debut sixth on the dirt. The son of So You Think was strong over 1,200m and delivered some solid closing sectionals. I like the step up in trip for I Do, the switch to the turf and the fact that Zac Purton has picked up the ride. He looks to map more favourably than Pearl Champion and shapes as some value in the market. LOOK ERAS and VICTORY POWER should both settle on-pace and can run well. Victory Power was very good when battling strongly after sitting on top of a fast pace on HKIR day, but the presence of Look Eras here piling on the pressure does cause some concern – will they spoil each others chances? DESTIN competed in the same event as Victory Power (race 236) and as a result of the tempo charged into the finish. There are a couple of first-starters to go with the lightly-raced gallopers competing, however none have really caught my eye. It’s a somewhat tricky race however I’m happy that I Do shapes as a solid each way outlay.

From Sweet In Defeat:

PEARL CHAMPION

I DO