wo horses carrying the iconic Silent Witness silks, Conspiracy Witness (131lb) and Honest Witness (123lb), feature on Wednesday (25 March) at Happy Valley for Hayes.

Hayes said: “Conspiracy Witness has got back to Class 5, and he’s been crying out for more distance. Hopefully, he can stay a bit.”

Conspiracy Witness tackles the Class 5 Tuen Mun Handicap (2200m) under Irish ace Dylan Browne McMonagle, whose short-term contract concludes tomorrow after commencing on 1 January.

Browne McMonagle has 10 winners from 138 rides in Hong Kong.

He said: “It’s been super – I’ve had plenty of support from a lot of different yards. It’s been a great experience, and I’d love to come back as well.”

Hayes saddles eight runners at Happy Valley, including Metro Power (128lb) in the Class 3 Kwu Tung Handicap (1200m) with James Orman booked.

“He has a very awkward gate (11), but he’s a fast horse, and he’ll race on the pace and make his own luck. He’s turned into a nice Happy Valley horse – he’s had a win and a second there,” Hayes said.

Luke Ferraris is seeking consecutive wins with Symbol Of Strength (135lb) in the Kwu Tung Handicap for trainer Frankie Lor. The 78-rated Kodiac gelding breaks from barrier four in the 12-runner finale at the city circuit.

“His form had suggested that he was improving with each and every run. Then he found a race where things worked out for him and he was able to get it done,” Ferraris said. “It’s nice to see him come along the way he has and win for his well-deserving owners.”

Wednesday’s (25 March) nine-race fixture at Happy Valley kicks off at 6.40pm with the Class 5 Tuen Mun Handicap (2200m).

Photo: HKJC