Michael Cox’s Derby Watch

In the lead-up to the 2020 Hong Kong Derby, Michael Cox will provide analysis for Hutchi’s Honkers as the next generation of stars builds up to the big race on March 20. The four-year-old series begins with the Hong Kong Classic Mile on January 27, continues with the Hong Kong Classic Cup on February 23 and culminates with the Derby on March 22.

17/02/20

A Hong Kong Classic Cup start for Golden Sixty is still in doubt and trainer Francis Lui will make a call on the fitness of his Derby contender after trackwork on Tuesday morning.

Golden Sixty has won eight from nine overall and five from five this season, including a dominant display in the Hong Kong Classic Mile last start but the star may not contest the second leg of the four-year-old series on Sunday.

The Australian-bred missed work last week after an elevated temperature but has galloped since, working home his final 400m in 26 seconds on Sunday morning.

“We will check on him on Tuesday after trackwork and make our decision then,” said Lui, who also has leading Hong Kong Derby contender More Than This in his care.

Last week it was revealed three-time jockeys’ championship winner Zac Purton would replace Ryan Moore on More Than This in the Classic Cup and that has sparked a game of musical chairs when it comes to Derby rides.

Moore will replace Karis Teetan on John Size-trained Champion’s Way in the Classic Cup while Hugh Bowman will replace Silvestre de Sousa on John Moore-trained Enjoying.

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