Dec 20 Hong Kong (Sha Tin) preview

Invincible Ibis set to soar to new heights at first mile test

Sign up now: Get the biggest sports news in your inbox

Invincible Ibis (Zac Purton) claiming a last-to-first victory two starts ago in the Class 4 Chengdu Handicap (1,400m) at Sha Tin on Oct 1. The Mark Newnham-trained four-year-old will have Purton in the saddle again as he seeks a hat-trick of wins in the Class 3 Poinsettia Handicap (1,600m) at Sha Tin on Dec 20.

PHOTO: HKJC

2 Gale Saga looks set to improve returning to his most proven track and distance, after a Class 5 run at Happy Valley that did not suit. Back to conditions that play to his strengths, a rebound is expected.

1 Circuit Fiery has had more than his share of chances and continues to find one better, finishing in the placings on four from five runs since the class drop. That said, he again receives every conceivable favour and remains entitled to finally break through.

6 Double Show draws for a sweet run in barrier 3 and has clearly turned a corner since joining the Brett Crawford stable, winning in decisive fashion by over a length at this trip last start.

13 Wisdom Star is the wildcard. His race form reads poorly, but a stable switch to Me Tsui and a notably improved trial hint that he may be capable of lifting under race-day conditions.

6 Tai Victory steps out for a new handler after switching from Mark Newnham to Jimmy Ting and the stable change has shown up positively at the trials. He has slid down the ratings, which gives him some relief. In a race lacking early speed, he may be allowed to roll forward and try to