Mark Newnham hopes return to mile and Group Two level propels My Wish to Chairman’s Trophy glory

Leading trainer Mark Newnham is optimistic that a return to the 1,600m distance and the Group Two level could propel his four-year-old, My Wish, to victory in Monday's Chairman’s Trophy at Sha Tin. The bay colt, sired by Flying Artie, has been touted as a potential Group One winner following an impressive four-year-old campaign. My Wish began his current season strongly, securing victories in the Group Three Celebration Cup over 1,400m and the Group Two Sha Tin Trophy at 1,600m.

Despite his early success, My Wish faced challenges when he was moved up to level weights and then contested Group One races. The colt struggled to find his form in these higher-grade events, leading some to question his potential. However, Newnham remains confident in his horse's abilities, particularly at the 1,600m distance, where he has already shown his class.

The Chairman’s Trophy, held at Sha Tin Racecourse, offers My Wish a chance to rediscover his winning ways. The Group Two race, run over the same 1,600m distance, provides an ideal opportunity for the colt to build on his previous successes. Newnham believes that the drop in grade and distance could be the catalyst My Wish needs to return to his best form.

My Wish's recent performances have been mixed, but his trainer is hopeful that the change in circumstances will benefit the horse. Newnham has spoken of the importance of finding the right race for My Wish, and the Chairman’s Trophy seems to fit the bill perfectly. The trainer is eager to see if the colt can replicate his early-season form in this prestigious Group Two event.

In addition to My Wish, Newnham will also be fielding another promising horse, Star of the Sea, in the Chairman’s Trophy. Star of the Sea, a half-brother to the Group One winner Star Catcher, has shown promise in recent races and could pose a serious challenge to My Wish. Newnham will be watching closely as both horses prepare for the race, hoping that one of them can secure a victory for his stable.

The Chairman’s Trophy is a highly competitive event, attracting top horses from across the region. Newnham acknowledges the strong field but remains optimistic about My Wish's chances. He believes that the colt's previous successes, combined with the right race conditions, could lead to a triumphant return to the winner's circle.

As the race day approaches, fans of horse racing will be eager to see if My Wish can capitalize on the opportunity presented by the Chairman’s Trophy. With a talented trainer and a history of strong performances, the bay colt has the potential to make a statement in this Group Two event. Newnham's confidence in his horse is contagious, and many will be watching closely to see if My Wish can indeed return to his previous glory.

In conclusion, Mark Newnham's hopes for My Wish to secure victory in the Chairman’s Trophy are built on the colt's previous successes at the 1,600m distance and the Group Two level. Despite recent challenges in higher-grade races, the trainer remains optimistic that the right conditions could propel My Wish to a triumphant return. With a strong field of competitors, the Chairman’s Trophy promises to be an exciting race, and My Wish's performance will be closely watched by racing enthusiasts and experts alike.