Crawford Chases First Hong Kong Winner at Sha Tin
A quiet moment of triumph in the Sha Tin stables could soon turn into a roar of celebration if Brett Crawford’s Only U crosses the line first on Sunday. The South African trainer, who has dazzled back home with Group 1 glory, could finally claim his inaugural Hong Kong winner in the first section of the Class 5 Hong Tung Handicap (1400m), with champion jockey Zac Purton taking the reins.
Crawford’s optimism is palpable. “He’s in great form; he’s come out of a trial well, his work at home has been good,” he said. “Lucky for me, Zac actually phoned a while back for the horse. So he obviously feels that, with the horse dropping into Class 5 – even with top weight – he should be competitive. It’s always good to have Zac on.”
Only U’s Form and Class 5 Challenge
Only U, a six-year-old who recently joined Crawford’s stable following Benno Yung’s retirement, has shown steady improvement. Winless last term, the gelding was placed in three of his last four runs, including a second over 1400 metres with Purton aboard. This Sunday marks his second attempt in Class 5, carrying 135lb from barrier 12 — a challenge Crawford acknowledges but remains confident about. “Looking at the field, I think the opposition are all drawn pretty much around us,” he added.
Crawford’s Impressive Track Record
Crawford, 54, arrived in Hong Kong during the off-season with an enviable resume of 29 Group 1 victories, including two Durban July triumphs. The city’s racing scene has yet to see him strike, but Only U may provide the perfect opportunity to secure his first Hong Kong winner.
Other Races to Watch at Sha Tin
Sunday also features intriguing rides for David Hayes, who pairs with Brenton Avdulla for the first time this season aboard Night Purosangue (135lb) in the second section of the Hong Tung Handicap (1400m). After a quiet first campaign, Hayes believes the four-year-old is ready to make his mark. “He was a bit disappointing last year, but he’s a big, strong horse that looks like he’s acclimatised now,” Hayes said.
Avdulla, meanwhile, will also ride dirt specialist Must Go in the Class 3 Oi Tung Handicap (1200m) on the All-Weather. The 34-year-old rider is confident the Size-trained gelding can build on last season’s solid form. “This is the right race for him on the back-up, and I’d expect him to improve,” Avdulla said.
Sha Tin Fixture Details
The ten-race fixture at Sha Tin kicks off at 1pm, and all eyes will be on Crawford and Purton as Only U attempts to bring the South African trainer his first Hong Kong winner.
Read more on RaceBuzz.
