Brett Crawford's Hong Kong campaign is off to a flying start, with the trainer expressing satisfaction and a keen eye for future prospects. Crawford's stable has already achieved 21 wins this season, an impressive feat with 18 of those victories coming from stable transfers. The highlight of this success was the Group Three Sa Sa Ladies’ Purse (1,800m) triumph with Encountered, a testament to Crawford's ability to strike with stable transfers.
Crawford's positive outlook is evident in his words: "I’m very happy. I think we’ve settled in well, learned the routine and learned what is expected of us in Hong Kong." This sentiment underscores his adaptability and understanding of the local racing culture.
The focus now shifts to Public Attention, a horse with strong claims in the Class Two Hong Kong Jockey Club Scholarships Handicap (1,200m). Public Attention's performance in his first two Hong Kong starts for David Hayes was commendable, placing behind Sky Joy and Aeris Nova. Crawford's confidence in Public Attention's potential is evident: "I thought his first run for us was a good run. He’s been doing well subsequently, his work’s been really good and I’ve been really happy with him."
The trainer's optimism is further bolstered by Public Attention's ideal barrier draw in barrier three on Sunday. Crawford's belief in the horse's versatility is clear: "I think he’s definitely a horse that will look for a bit further. I think he can definitely go seven furlongs no problem."
Another strong contender for Crawford is The Unique Star, who is set to tackle the Class Three HKU Jockey Club Tower Handicap (1,400m) after a solid third-place finish to Perfectday last month. Crawford's assessment of The Unique Star's performance post-January debut reveals minor issues that have since been addressed: "I think he’s knocking on the door."
Ninja Derby, a six-year-old with a fetlock injury history, is also in the running. Crawford's positive outlook on Ninja Derby's recovery and performance is notable: "He’s come on from that, he looks really well and his coat’s come good."
Gor Gor, a horse with a history of fast-finishing wins, is another Crawford contender. Despite recent defeats, Crawford remains optimistic: "I’ve always thought he can look to go a little bit further and he’s definitely strengthened up."
Crawford's stable also includes Celestial Harmony and Bullish Pride, both of whom are expected to perform well in their respective races. Crawford's overall strategy and positive outlook on his stable's performance in Hong Kong are a testament to his expertise and adaptability in the racing world.
