Training Report of Foreign Entry
the 52nd Running of the Sprinters Stakes (G1)

September 27, 2018 (Thursday)

<At Nakayama Racecourse>

Weather: Cloudy
Going: Good (turf course)

Lucky Bubbles (AUS, G7, chestnut)

- (right-handed) jogged to 1st corner, cantered and galloped last 600m on turf course
(exercised from 7:47 AM to 7:55 AM, ridden by Brett Prebble)

“His work this morning was nice. He’s a bit lost and lonely since he’s on his own but I worked him up from the 600 (meter marker) and it was quite nice work.

“The ground is on the softer side, so we didn’t run too fast in time, but his actions were comfortable and he stretched out nicely.

“In his first couple of starts last season he was most unlucky and after that I wasn’t on him so I can’t say for sure, but he looked to me like his actions weren’t as comfortable as it could be and that he was carrying some issues. But his last run was quite encouraging for me because he was just beaten by a short margin and I felt that his spirit was back.

“Regarding the draw, the inside is always the best because it’s the shortest way home. It will be an advantage because sometimes he’s a little bit slow out of the gate, so if he draws an inside gate, it can cover that a little bit better.

“I’ve competed against Fine Needle in Hong Kong and obviously know him well. He’s sure to be a favorite but looking at his form, if it keeps raining, I know that it would be a huge negative for him. A lot will depend on the weather.”

(comments taken from jockey Brett Prebble)

“My boss (trainer) and the owner decided to bring him to Japan to challenge the Sprinters Stakes as a kick-off start of the season. He is sensitive to new surroundings, so we just try to keep him relaxed and happy. His fitness is good, he’s eating well and he’s steadily keeping his weight.

“Walking on the grass a few days ago, I saw that the ground is much harder here and I’m aware that races are run faster here, but this horse has power and as long as he’s relaxed and is able to enjoy the race, I think he will be able to show his power on Sunday.”

(Comments taken from assistant trainer Lok Man Larry Lui)