The first Saturday fixture of the season awaits at Sha Tin this weekend, with the Class Two High West Handicap (1,650m) on dirt the strongest event on the 10-race card.

Jay Rooney is in the hot seat with an extended rundown of his selections.

Race 1 – Class Five Tung Chung Handicap (1,650m)

Viva Chaleur is unbeaten from two trials since a stable transfer to Tony Cruz and can finally break through at his 31st local start.

Race 2 – Class Five Nam Sang Wai Handicap (1,400m)

Like many of his rivals in this event, Only U struggles to win but he should get his chance from gate two despite Zac Purton seemingly hopping off to ride Circuit Fiery.

Race 3 – Class Four Sai Kung Handicap (1,650m)

Fashion Legend struggled from a wide draw first up but can bounce back here with the aid of barrier five and reuniting with Purton.

Race 4 – Class Four Pak Tam Au Handicap (1,400m) – first section

Audacious Pursuit was a solid fourth on debut last season and looks to have returned in good order on his recent trial win.

Race 5 – Class Four South Bay Handicap (1,200m)

Ruby Sailing can take advantage of a light weight with Britney Wong’s claim and a soft run on the speed from a low draw.

Race 6 – Class Four Pak Tam Au Handicap (1,400m) – second section

Fit For Beauty was enormous on debut, travelling wide without cover but boxing on strongly for fifth behind Same To You. With an ounce of luck from barrier 14, he will figure prominently.

Race 7 – Class Three The Association of Hong Kong Racing Journalists 40th Anniversary Cup (1,000m)

There is no shortage of early speed in this race and Fast Responder could be the one to topple them late. The Douglas Whyte-trained sprinter made good ground late for second to the reopposing Metro Power last start and has the advantage of the outside draw up the straight course.

Race 8 – Class Two High West Handicap (1,650m)

Talents Ambition has a terrific course and distance record and has trialled exceptionally well ahead of his seasonal reappearance.

Race 9 – Class Three Tung Lung Chau Handicap (1,200m)

Bulb General will be forced to spot his rivals a head start from barrier 12, but on the strength of his wins at the end of last season and first up this term, he should prove too classy.

Race 10 – Class Three Nam Long Shan Handicap (1,800m)

Joy Of Spring resumed with an encouraging third behind Master Of All over 1,400m and he can strike rising to his favourite distance with the aid of a run under his belt.