Trainer Gary Portelli admits he was hoping for a better barrier than the one allocated to Rebel Dane in Sunday's Group I Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) at Sha Tin.
"To be honest I was hoping for somewhere between one and six - things may be a bit tricky from there," Portelli said after Rebel Dane drew barrier eight in the 14-horse field.
"The better local horses have drawn inside him and while I think that will guarantee good speed, it might make it tough for my horse to find a position."
Rebel Dane completed some pacework on the all-weather track under race jockey Ben Melham on Thursday and has delighted Portelli with the way the seven-year-old has settled in.
"He didn't do a lot this morning but it was just what we wanted and will top him off nicely for Sunday. Ben (Melham) was really happy with the way he felt." Portelli said.
"I'm thrilled with the way he has settled in to the quarantine. He lost around nine kilograms on the flight across but has recovered most of it.
"Obviously it will be a huge challenge on Sunday but I am just thrilled to be here with him in the race and a chance to win."
