Winning Mascot may have a history of soundness issues, but has been a honest performer for Dennis Yip Chor-hong, who is hanging on to a one-win lead in the trainers' championship following a victory with Cheers Joy in the last event on Thursday night.
Winning Mascot shook off a distal humerus stress fracture last season for three wins and was knocking on the door with thirds over 1,400m and 1,800m in two of his first four runs this campaign before heading to the sidelines in March with another injury.
The six-year-old, third run back from stress fracture of the right hind proximal tibia, battled on gamely with the aggressive Tye Angland aboard from a wide gate to finish an eye-catching length fourth behind the revamped Tres Magnifique in the Class Four Lotus Handicap over the extended Valley mile.
If Winning Mascot can keep himself injury free, he will certainly be finding his way into the winner's circle.
The son of Marju and Nashamaa mare Supportive has been successful over 1,400m or mile at both courses and that's where he'll likely be making his mark again for the Waylee Syndicate, who have had success in the past with Dr Possi and Roaring Star from three other performers.
