Among Joao Moreira’s eight chances at Happy Valley on Wednesday are the John Size-trained Dor Dor (NZ) (Shamexpress) and Moreira is hopeful he can continue his consistent form and nail a third win for the term at the city venue in the Class 4 Thomson Handicap (1650m).
“Compared to last season, he has improved a lot,” the three-time Hong Kong champion said. “Last season he hit the bar a couple of times and wasn’t able to deliver but this time around he’s been more reliable, he’s been consistent and if he’s able to produce his best – because he was quite unlucky last time – I’d say his chance is quite high.”
Dor Dor found every door closed in the home straight when seventh over the course and distance late last month, with that evening’s jockey Alexis Badel holding plenty of rein as his mount passed the post on heels, seemingly with plenty still to give.
That effort came under a burden of 132lb off a rating of 58 and Dor Dor finds himself off the same rating, with 1lb more to carry, and will break from gate 3.
“He carried that weight last time so I have faith in him being able to carry the weight, and he’s not up or down in class so he’s in the same spot as he was last time. His last performance was really good and I hope he does the same,” Moreira said.
