Trainer Frankie Lor continues to nurture ambitions of Group race success with his progressive four-year-old Bottomuptogether, who returns to Sha Tin for another crack at the 1200m in the HK$2.84 million HKU Business School and Faculty of Engineering Handicap. The gelding has been a model of consistency with five victories and as many placings from 12 starts, and now faces a quality Class 2 field on Saturday.
Starting from gate 10 and carrying top weight of 133lb, Bottomuptogether will once again be ridden by Zac Purton, who has partnered him to most of his success. Despite a slightly wide draw and speed drawn to his inside, the combination is expected to remain competitive thanks to the horse’s early pace and Purton’s familiarity with his quirks. Lor is confident that the champion jockey’s experience will be a crucial asset in navigating race dynamics.
The Shamus Award gelding has steadily climbed the ratings ladder since starting the season on a mark of 79. Now rated 102, he has not only improved his performance with each run but also demonstrated the tenacity needed at higher levels. His most recent second-place effort behind Lady’s Choice showed he belongs in elite company. Still learning and maturing, the gelding is expected to remain at sprint trips for now as he continues to develop mentally.
Bottomuptogether shares his bloodline with Beauty Live, a horse known for performing over further distances. However, Lor is content to keep him over 1200m until he learns to settle more effectively in the early stages. The focus remains on helping him relax and harness his speed more efficiently before trying longer trips or stepping up in class.
While Bottomuptogether leads the charge for Lor, Saturday’s sprint will also feature strong contenders from other top yards. David Hayes, in the hunt for a third Hong Kong trainers’ title, saddles Tomodachi Kokoroe and Harmony N Blessed in the same race. Hayes acknowledged the difficulty of overtaking current leader John Size in the standings but remains determined to make the most of his chances with 11 runners across the card.
The veteran trainer believes both his Class 2 entrants are capable of earning a cheque, especially if they get the right pace scenario. He expects Harmony N Blessed to perform better if the ground softens, whereas Tomodachi Kokoroe could hold the advantage on firmer going.
Beyond the sprint feature, Hayes is also looking forward to World Hero’s performance in the Class 4 Hong Kong University Alumni Association Challenge Cup Handicap. The horse, drawn wide in barrier 14, will be ridden by Alexis Badel and enters the race in excellent form after a stylish win in his previous start.
Sha Tin’s Saturday card will get underway at 4pm with the Griffins-only HKU Faculties Of Arts And Education Plate over 1000m, launching what promises to be an afternoon of high-quality racing and rising stars staking their claims for greater glory.
