---
title: "Wide Barrier Draws Fail to Rattle Top Contenders Ahead of Hong Kong Derby"
date: 2026-03-19
author: ""
url: https://panamadaily.news/2026/03/19/hong-kong-derby-numbers-little-paradise-draws/
categories:
  - "Sports"
  - "World"
tags:
  - "Frankie Lor"
  - "Hong Kong Derby"
  - "horse racing"
  - "Jimmy Ting"
  - "Little Paradise"
  - "Numbers"
---

# Wide Barrier Draws Fail to Rattle Top Contenders Ahead of Hong Kong Derby

## What Happened

Trainers Frankie Lor Fu-chuen and Jimmy Ting Koon-ho said they will not use the barrier draw as an excuse ahead of Sunday’s BMW Hong Kong Derby (2,000m), despite their runners receiving wide stalls. Lor’s Numbers has been drawn in stall 13, while Ting’s Little Paradise drew stall 10.

On paper Numbers, expected to be a likely front-runner, faces a stiff task from an outer gate, but Lor appeared relaxed at Thursday’s barrier-draw ceremony as he targets a second victory in what is widely regarded as the city’s most coveted race. Lor’s four-year-old was second in the Group One Queensland Derby (2,400m).

## Background

The BMW Hong Kong Derby is run over 2,000 metres and attracts the best four-year-olds in the city. Barrier draws are conducted in the days before the race and determine each horse’s starting stall. Numbers’ draw at stall 13 and Little Paradise’s draw at stall 10 place both horses on the wider side of the field, which can influence early positioning and jockey tactics.

## What This Means

While outside barriers can complicate a horse’s path into a favourable early position, both trainers signalled they will focus on preparation and race tactics rather than using the draw as an excuse. Lor’s calm response at the ceremony underlines confidence in his horse’s form after a runner-up finish in the Group One Queensland Derby over 2,400m.

For racegoers, bookmakers and racing connections, the draws will be factored into how each horse is expected to run on Sunday, affecting jockey instructions and possible race shape. But with both trainers downplaying the significance of the barriers, attention will remain on fitness and form heading into the big day.

## Regional Interest

Although the race takes place in Hong Kong, it will draw interest from international racing followers, including owners, trainers and fans in Panama and across Latin America who track major thoroughbred events. The Derby’s outcome could influence international breeding and trading conversations among connections who follow global Group One form.