The stars aligned for James McDonald when he partnered Galaxy Patch for the first time in the G2 BOCHK Private Wealth Jockey Club Mile (1600m) last month, and the rider is hoping a similar scenario can play out in the G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Mile (1600m) on Sunday (14 December).

The duo has a perfect record going into the HK$36 million contest after the six-year-old put in a powerful finish up the inside rail to defeat Sunlight Power, Happy Together and My Wish last time. All three runners reoppose at the weekend to form a strong local challenge.

It was Galaxy Patch’s first victory since the G2 Sha Tin Trophy Handicap (1600m) in October, 2024, but he has always threatened to develop into a top-level performer and McDonald’s assistance could prove the key.

“I was very impressed with him and his trial afterwards was even more impressive,” the rider said in a press conference at Sha Tin Racecourse. “I thought he was brilliant coming out of that race.

“We’ve always known he’s a very good horse, he just hasn’t had the rub of the green at times due to his racing style, but he’s as good a horse as any of them and he just needs luck to go his way.

“It’s a big field and he’s going to need pace on because he gets back, but he’s definitely capable of running over the top of them. He’s up to this level and he gives you a good feel.”

Red Lion could manage only 12th behind Galaxy Patch, but his rider Hugh Bowman believes he can perform to a higher level this time around.

A replica of his win in the G1 FWD Champions Mile (1600m) in April, when defeating Voyage Bubble, would put him in the reckoning, and Bowman believes there is cause for optimism.

“He tends to take a bit of time to hit his peak,” Bowman said.  “I feel like the same pattern has developed this year and he’s going better than his last start suggests. I think in another couple of months he’ll be going better again, but he’s going well enough to run a really strong race.

“The competition is very high and he’s going to have to be at his absolute premium to win. He’s going well, feeling well and mentally and physically comfortable.”

My Wish was only fourth behind Galaxy Patch on his most recent start, but the five-year-old is feared most.

“I have a healthy respect for My Wish,” Bowman said. “I think he could bounce back from a below-par performance in the build-up. It’s the most competitive race on the card.

“Red Lion is a very courageous horse, and he tries his hardest. He likes to roll along and if he can get a bit of peace mid-race he’ll be there at the 200m.”

Sunday’s (14 December) 10-race fixture at Sha Tin starts at 12.25pm with the Class 4 Fairy King Prawn Handicap (1400m).