HK Derby field almost finalised

The announcement of the 2020 Derby runners, and reserves, fell in line with expectations but the race has already lost one starter, the former Australian galloper, Enjoying.

Formerly raced in Australia under the name Global Exchange, the John Moore-trained galloper was found to be suffering with heart arrhythmia issues in a special workout test on Friday when he was fitted with measuring equipment and has been withdrawn.

That will give first reserve World Famous a start in the classic, although he looks thoroughly overmatched.

The official declared field of 14 will be announced on Thursday, March 19, when the barrier draw - a crucial element from the tricky 2000m start at Sha Tin - will also take place.

In other news, Joao Moreira will be aboard Champion's Way instead of Ryan Moore, with travel complications due to the COVID-19 outbreak cited as the reason.

Other riders will fly in, however, with Australians Brett Prebble and Tommy Berry to ride Private Secretary and Savvy Nine, respectively, and Jamie Spencer coming from the UK to ride Super Oasis.

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