FWD Champions Day again brought Sha Tin to life on Sunday, with Hong Kong’s spring showpiece combining world-class racing, international attention and a strong supporting programme around the three Group 1 features. The day was built around the Chairman’s Sprint Prize, the FWD Champions Mile and the FWD QEII Cup, with some of the best horses in Hong Kong joined by a strong international presence. While the feature races were always going to carry the most attention, the early part of the card still produced a story with a familiar regional flavour when Big Return, a former Singapore-trained runner, took out Race 2 for Jamie Richards. The four-year-old son of Divine Prophet had already shown he was heading the right way in Hong Kong, having won over the Sha Tin mile on April 6 before backing up 20 days later on Champions Day. That previous victory came after he was held up between the 400m and 300m, but once clear he was able to finish off strongly and show that the step to 1600m suited him. On Sunday, he confirmed that again. Big Return made it two wins from two starts over the mile, giving connections another strong result. Owned by the Toast Sports Trust Syndicate and trained by Jamie Richards, Big Return has now built his Hong Kong record to two wins and one placing from 13 starts, with both of those victories coming at Sha Tin. For Richards, it was another reminder of the patient approach often required in Hong Kong. Big Return had been working through Class 4 company without always having things fall his way, but his form had been consistent enough to suggest there was a race there for him. His earlier runs over 1200m and 1400m had included some honest efforts without winning, before the move to 1600m unlocked the improvement connections were hoping to see. The Singapore connection made the result even more notable from a regional point of view. Horses with previous links to Singapore racing continue to find their way into other Asian jurisdictions, and Big Return’s win on one of Hong Kong’s biggest race days was a timely reminder of the depth that has come through that system. G1 Chairmans Sprint Prize 1200m

Ka Ying Rising did what champions do in the Chairman’s Sprint Prize at Sha Tin, turning another Group 1 test into another statement of dominance. The world-class sprinter made it 20 wins in a row, extending one of the most remarkable winning streaks in modern racing and further strengthening the case that he is not just the best sprinter in Hong Kong, but potentially the best horse on the planet. There was pressure, expectation and history around the race, but Ka Ying Rising handled it all like it was just another assignment. He did not need to lead. He did not need the race run perfectly to suit him. He simply travelled, waited, and when Zac Purton asked him to go, the race was over in a matter of strides. Sitting just off the speed after electing to not take the lead, Ka Ying Rising always looked to be within striking range. Purton allowed him to find his rhythm behind the leaders before peeling around heels at the right moment. Once balanced, the response was immediate. He surged clear, spaced his rivals and stopped the clock in 1:07.10, breaking another Sha Tin track record and stamping his authority on a sprinting division that he continues to own. For trainer David Hayes, the performance only added to what he already believes about the gelding. “A long time ago, I thought he might have been the best horse I’ve trained, and about a year ago, I thought he was the best horse I’ve ever trained, and now I think he is one of the best I’ve ever seen!” Hayes said. It was a powerful statement from a trainer who has prepared elite horses across Australia and Hong Kong, but it is becoming harder to argue against him. Ka Ying Rising has now gone from outstanding Hong Kong sprinter to global racing figure. Every start seems to bring a new level of expectation, yet every start also brings the same result. He wins, he breaks records, and he does it with the kind of ease that separates very good horses from rare ones. The Chairman’s Sprint Prize was supposed to be another major test, but he made it look routine. His ability to sit off speed, quicken instantly and sustain that power through the line makes him a difficult horse to pressure and an almost impossible horse to beat. This was not just a win. It was another performance that felt bigger than the result itself. Ka Ying Rising is now unbeaten across his past 20 starts, a Group 1 winner again, a track record breaker again, and a horse whose reputation continues to grow beyond Hong Kong. The question is no longer whether he is the best sprinter but the best horse across the board. G1 Champions Mile 1600m

My Wish delivered one of the biggest moments of FWD Champions Day when he stormed home to win the Champions Mile, giving Hugh Bowman successive victories in the race after his win aboard Red Lion in 2025. For Bowman, it was another perfectly timed Sha Tin Group 1 ride. My Wish was not forced into the race early from gate 10 and instead was allowed to settle back in the field, conserve his energy and build into the race when it mattered. Turning for home, the Mark Newnham-trained gelding still had work to do, but once Bowman angled him into clear passage, he let down strongly and produced the turn of foot that had been building through his recent performances. It was a deserved Group 1 breakthrough for a horse who had been racing consistently against Hong Kong’s best. The five-year-old son of Flying Artie had already compiled a strong local record, with six wins, four seconds and two thirds from 18 starts, all of them on the Sha Tin turf. He had also shown his quality over the Champions Mile course and distance. Before Sunday, My Wish had raced eight times over 1600m at Sha Tin for two wins, a second and a third, while his overall record at the mile now underlines him as a serious and reliable performer at the trip. His lead-up run had been full of merit when he stormed home for second behind Lucky Sweynesse in Group 2 company on April 6, beaten only a head. That performance suggested he was close to another major win, and on Champions Day he took the next step. While he had been placed around elite company before, including strong efforts behind Voyage Bubble and Romantic Warrior, this was the day My Wish turned consistency into a major prize. The result also completed an all-Australian jockey trifecta in the Champions Mile. Bowman took the honours aboard My Wish, while last year’s Hong Kong Derby winner Cap Ferrat ran home strongly into second, and Docklands finished close behind in third. For trainer Mark Newnham and owner Ada Che Xiao Hong, it was a career-defining win with a horse who has continued to improve through the Hong Kong system. My Wish had won from 1200m through to 1600m earlier in his career and had even placed out to 2000m, but the mile at Sha Tin has clearly become his stage. He arrived at FWD Champions Day as a horse knocking on the door at the top level and left as a Group 1 winner.  FWD QEII CUP 2000m

Romantic Warrior again showed why he sits at the top of Hong Kong racing, producing another dominant display in the FWD QEII Cup at Sha Tin.

The Danny Shum-trained champion went into the race as the clear headline act of FWD Champions Day, and once again he delivered under James McDonald, adding another major race to a career that continues to grow in stature.

It was the performance of a horse who has made winning at the highest level look routine.

Romantic Warrior came into the race with a remarkable record, having won 19 of his 23 local starts and 22 of his 28 starts on turf. At Group 1 level, he had already established himself as one of the most reliable elite performers in world racing, with 13 wins and five seconds from 19 Group 1 starts.

At Sha Tin, and particularly over 2000m, his record is almost untouchable.

The eight-year-old son of Acclamation had won 17 of his 21 starts at Sha Tin before the race, while his course-and-distance record over 2000m stood at 13 wins and one second from 14 attempts. Overall at the trip, he had won 14 of 16 starts, further underlining why the QEII Cup has become one of his natural targets.

This season, Romantic Warrior has been perfect.

He resumed with an impressive Group 2 win over Voyage Bubble in November, before taking out another Group 1 over 2000m in December. He then showed his versatility by dropping back to the mile in January and beating Lucky Sweynesse, before returning to 2000m in March and winning easily by four lengths over Ensued.

That last-start victory came in 1:59.77, with Romantic Warrior closing off in 22.52, and it confirmed that the local champion was still in outstanding form heading into Champions Day.

For owner Peter Lau Pak Fai, trainer Danny Shum and McDonald, he has been the horse of a lifetime.

Bought for HK$4.8 million, Romantic Warrior has now earned more than HK$254 million in stakes and built a record that places him among the greats of Hong Kong racing.

McDonald’s connection with the horse has also become one of the defining partnerships of his career. Before Sunday, he had ridden Romantic Warrior 18 times for 15 wins and two placings, a record that reflects both the horse’s brilliance and the understanding between jockey and champion.

There are very few horses who can carry the expectation Romantic Warrior does and keep answering it.

He has won from 1200m through to 2040m, placed out to 2400m, travelled overseas and come back, and still returned to Sha Tin as the benchmark horse in Hong Kong.

The FWD QEII Cup was another chance for the racing world to see what Hong Kong fans already know.

Romantic Warrior is not just a local champion.

He is one of the great racehorses of his generation along with Ka Ying Rising.

By Scott Bailey

Trainer Mike Stewart has expertly managed Demanding Dave, guiding the progressive sprinter through the ranks to stakes company. The in-form gelding lines up at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Monday, bidding for a breakthrough victory in the Champagne Stakes over 1200m.

A crowd favourite in Cape Town, Demanding Dave has won four of his last six starts, showcasing a sharp turn of foot and an eye-catching late surge. His last run in the Easter Sprint saw him finish 1.3 lengths behind Dance Variety, but traffic issues at a crucial stage likely cost him momentum. Jockey Andrew Fortune, unbeaten in three rides aboard him, reunites at a light weight, boosting confidence of a rebound.

Sardinia Bay, another promising three-year-old, finished just ahead of Demanding Dave last time and meets him at level weights. His natural early pace is a weapon, though softer ground could test him. Dance Variety, despite inconsistency, remains a major threat if reproducing his best form.

Earlier on the card, The Cullinan appeals in Race 1 after a solid debut, while Godric Gryffindor poses a fitness query returning from a break. In Race 2, Vercicat showed promise when runner-up after gelding and could improve further under Tristan Godden.

Race 3 sees Pay The Palace dropping in class after competing against top company, including a credible run behind Jet Force. With Richard Fourie aboard, he looks a leading contender.

The mile contest (Race 4) is competitive, with Spanish Verse overdue a win after consecutive narrow defeats, while Blizzardboy, Zagreb, and See The Sign all hold claims.

In Race 5, Spirit Of Nical has shown improvement and could capitalize, though Up In Flames may bounce back. Race 6 is open, but Devil A Saint is well treated at the weights and could reverse recent form, while Oliver, from an in-form yard, is a late-running danger if the pace suits.

The closing stages feature Star World, who impressed last start and could follow up, with Iona Castle emerging as a progressive threat.

Video Stars Race 3 – 6 SOLID CAR Heavily backed last start, he settled off the speed from a slightly awkward draw and made late ground to finish eighth over 1400m. A post-race veterinary examination revealed blood in the trachea, making that effort best overlooked. With solid form around quality types such as HOT DELIGHT and EMBLAZON, he looks ready to produce a forward showing first-up. Race 10 – 3 ENDUED Following two encouraging efforts, he had little luck last time out, being badly held up over the final 350m before finishing eighth over this track and distance. Given the circumstances, his two-length margin suggests the run was much better than it appears. With clearer running, he looks capable of making amends and shapes as one to follow. Sectional Stars Race 1 – 11 PRESTIGE HALL He likely settled too far back from a wide draw last start, with the slow tempo compounding that disadvantage. Despite this, he still recorded the fastest final 400m (22.64 seconds) to finish strongly into sixth. He appears to be edging closer to a maiden win and could break through if things fall his way. Race 6 – 5 COOL BOY Forced to settle off the speed from a wide draw last start, he produced a sharp turn of foot in the straight, recording the fastest final 400m sectional to finish fourth over this track and distance. The slow tempo only added further merit to that effort, and with a more economical run, he should be right in the mix.

FWD Champions Day has once again brought a truly international feel to Sha Tin, and after being on the ground throughout the week, the build-up has had all the ingredients of a major racing occasion.

The international horses have arrived, the local champions have gone through their final pieces of work, and the atmosphere around Sha Tin has steadily built towards one of Hong Kong racing’s biggest days. Three Group 1 races will headline the meeting — the Chairman’s Sprint Prize, the FWD Champions Mile and the FWD QEII Cup — and each race carries its own storyline.

This is not just a meeting about prize money or prestige. It is a meeting that gives Hong Kong the chance to showcase its best horses against international opposition, and this year there are two local stars in particular who will command global attention.

Ka Ying Rising has become the horse everyone wants to see. Romantic Warrior is already one of the great names of Hong Kong racing. Both have looked well during the week, both appear to have handled their preparations professionally, and both have the chance to add another major chapter to their careers on Sunday.

The Chairman’s Sprint Prize will be all about Ka Ying Rising. He has taken Hong Kong sprinting to another level and now carries the expectation that comes with being the world’s leading sprinter. Watching him through the week, the most impressive part has not been anything flashy. It has been how calm and professional he looks in everything he does and the team are very confident they have him on song.

Great sprinters can sometimes carry nervous energy, but Ka Ying Rising gives the impression of a horse who knows exactly what is required. He has the speed to put himself wherever Zac Purton wants him, but he also has the strength to sustain it. That is what separates him from very good sprinters. He does not just quicken but he keeps going.

This race is another chance for him to build on what is already becoming an extraordinary winning sequence taking it to twenty straight wins. The pressure is there, but he has continued to answer every challenge placed in front of him. From what he has shown in his races and what he has looked like this week, there is no obvious reason to suggest he is ready to come back to the field.

Satono Reve brings the strongest international challenge. The Japanese sprinter is a genuine Group 1 horse, he has travelled here before, and he has the class to make his presence felt if Ka Ying Rising is even slightly below his best. He looked to go through his work well during the week, and Japan’s sprinters always command respect when they travel.

Helios Express is another runner who deserves respect. He has been racing honestly and has the local form to run well again but has been unlucky to run into a generational talent that is Ka Ying Rising, while Raging Blizzard, Beauty Waves, Fast Network and Tomodachi Kokoroe give the race further depth. Comanche Brave adds something different from the overseas angle and will be watched closely.

But in reality, they are all trying to bring down one horse. Ka Ying Rising is the benchmark. If he runs to anything like his best, the Chairman’s Sprint Prize should be his race to lose.

The FWD Champions Mile looks the most open of the three Group 1 races and could easily be the race where tempo, luck and positioning decide the result. A full field gives it a very different shape to the other features, and there are several runners with legitimate claims.

Voyage Bubble is the proven Hong Kong Group 1 miler and comes into this race with the right profile. He has been a terrific horse for local racing, and his best form over this course and distance is strong enough to win again. He has looked well in his work and appears to have come through his preparation in good order even after a niggling issue but connections are happy with him and he will take his place.

This is his chance to step back into the spotlight. With Romantic Warrior staying at 2000 metres, Voyage Bubble gets the chance to be the main local force over the mile. He has the tactical speed to hold a position, which is always important at Sha Tin, and if he gets the right run, he will be hard to hold out.

Jantar Mantar brings serious Japanese quality to the race. He is a proper miler, he has the class, and his form reads strongly enough to make him one of the key winning chances. Japanese horses have a long history of travelling well to Hong Kong, and he has the profile of a horse who can make an impact if he settles into the race and produces his turn of foot.

Docklands is also interesting. The Royal Ascot winner has already shown he can be competitive at Sha Tin and he is the type of horse who could be strongest late if they overdo it in front. He may not have the same headline profile as some others, but he is certainly not here to make up the numbers.

Lucky Sweynesse adds another layer of interest. He was once the dominant sprinter in Hong Kong, and his move towards the mile has given him a new storyline. It is never easy for a horse to change his racing pattern at this level, but class can take a horse a long way, and he still has plenty of that.

The Champions Mile is the race where I would be most cautious about being too confident. Voyage Bubble has the local Group 1 credentials, Jantar Mantar has the international class, and Docklands looks the one who could be finishing strongly. The race may be decided by who gets the cleanest run at the right time.

The FWD QEII Cup is where Romantic Warrior again takes centre stage. He has been the face of Hong Kong middle-distance racing for several seasons now, and the chance to win this race for a fourth time gives Sunday another layer of significance.

Few horses have carried expectation as well as Romantic Warrior. He has travelled, returned, backed up big performances, and continued to turn up at the elite level. That is what makes him so special. It is not just his talent, it is his consistency and professionalism.

Watching him this week, he looks like the same seasoned champion. He went through his work with purpose, and there was nothing to suggest he has gone backwards. Danny Shum has managed him with great care throughout his career, and James McDonald knows exactly how to get the best out of him.

The challenge this year is real. Masquerade Ball comes from Japan with strong credentials and looks the main threat. He has the profile of a serious 2000-metre horse and has the right jockey booking in Christophe Lemaire. If Romantic Warrior is going to be tested, this is the horse most likely to do it. His second placing to the worlds best horse Calandagan in the Japan Cup was exceptional and his rider has hinted ‘he could be one of the Japan greats’. From a rider that has ridden plenty of them that is some wrap.

Sosie also brings major European form into the race. He was excellent in Hong Kong in December when winning the Vase, and while dropping back to 2000 metres is a different challenge, his class and stamina make him a dangerous runner if the race becomes a genuine staying test. He has been tested in his trackwork during the week but his condition is glowing and he will look a danger at some point down the Sha Tin straight.

Royal Champion arrives with confidence after his win in Saudi Arabia, and he is another who has shown he can travel and perform. Giovanni, June Take, Rubylot and Numbers add depth, but the race still revolves around whether Romantic Warrior can again produce his best at Sha Tin.

The champion has been here before. He knows this race having won it multiple times, he knows the track, and he has made a habit of delivering when the pressure is at its highest. Masquerade Ball gives the race a genuine international edge, but Romantic Warrior remains the horse they all have to beat.

FWD Champions Day has shaped as a meeting with real global appeal. Ka Ying Rising is trying to continue one of the great winning runs in modern sprinting. Voyage Bubble leads the local hopes in a strong and competitive Champions Mile. Romantic Warrior is chasing another piece of history in a race he has made his own.

The international runners have added quality and intrigue, but after watching the build-up during the week, the strongest impression is that Hong Kong’s headline horses look ready. They have carried themselves like top-class racehorses, and now they get the chance to prove it again on one of the biggest stages in Asian racing.

By Scott Bailey from Sha Tin

Longchamp will stage the first Group 1 of the European season on Sunday with the running of the Prix Ganay World Pool by PMU, and while the field may be small, there is plenty of quality and intrigue around the 2100-metre contest.

Only six runners will line up, with the race featuring no overseas representation and just four trainers involved, but that should not take anything away from the depth of the field. This is a proper Group 1, bringing together last season’s Arc winner, proven top-level performers and a strong team from Andre Fabre that already has race fitness on its side.

The clear headline runner is Daryz, who returns for the first time since his outstanding victory in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe last year. That performance announced him as one of the leading middle-distance horses in Europe, as he defeated Minnie Hauk and put a clear gap on the rest of a high-class field.

The son of Sea The Stars now begins a new campaign, and this will be an important first step. He has the class to win this, but there are a few small queries. He was at his strongest late in the Arc over 2400 metres, so the drop back in distance to 2100 metres may not be ideal, particularly if the race is slowly run. He is also resuming, and connections are likely to have bigger targets later in the season.

That said, Daryz is a genuine Group 1 horse and the one they all have to measure up against. If he is anywhere near forward enough, he can make a winning return and confirm himself as one of the major names to follow through the European season.

Aventure also brings strong Group 1 form into the race. Her Arc run behind Daryz was not her best, but she is better than that and has shown enough quality at the top level to be highly competitive here. Like Daryz, she is first-up and may be better over further, but she has the class to be involved if she is ready to go.

Arrow Eagle is another runner with Group 1 form next to his name after his win in the Prix Royal-Oak last season. He is tough, genuine and proven at the level, but this distance looks short of his best. He may find this a little sharp on his return, although he still adds real depth to the race.

The race-fit runners could be the key to the contest, especially the Andre Fabre-trained trio of Bright Picture, Cualificar and First Look. All three come through the Prix d’Harcourt, where Bright Picture was able to win, Cualificar finished close up in third and First Look was not far away.

Bright Picture has to be respected off that last-start Group 2 win. He is fit, in form and represents one of the great European stables. First Look also has claims, particularly if he can improve from his return run, but Cualificar may be the most interesting of the Fabre runners.

Cualificar was beaten only narrowly in the Prix d’Harcourt and should take improvement from that run. His effort in the Arc at the end of last season can be forgiven, as he may simply have been at the end of his preparation. Back to 2100 metres with race fitness on his side, he looks well placed to run a big race.

The Prix Ganay looks a fascinating clash between proven Group 1 stars returning from a break and race-fit horses ready to take advantage if the big names are not fully wound up. Daryz is clearly the horse with the most upside and the strongest piece of form, but this is not a soft return.

He deserves to be favourite, but Cualificar looks the runner capable of making things interesting. If Daryz is forward enough, he can win and start his season in the perfect fashion. If he is just short of peak fitness, Cualificar may be the one ready to capitalise.

By Scott Bailey

Little Paradise and Invincible Ibis will each bid to end a 15-year wait at Sha Tin on Sunday (26 April) and become the first four-year-old since Xtension in 2011 to claim the HK$24 million G1 FWD Champions Mile (1600m). The Four-Year-Old Classic Series is the proving ground for the city’s up-and-coming talent. Little Paradise, winner of the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m), and Invincible Ibis, winner of the HK$26 million BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m), will try their luck on FWD Champions Day against race-hardened opposition – all older, more experienced and some better credentialed, including several Group 1 winners. Five-year-olds are the most successful age group in the FWD Champions Mile, with nine winners since 2001. Six-year-olds have prevailed six times in that period, while four-year-olds won five times between 2001 and 2011. However, since then, none has been successful. Voyage Bubble and My Wish were fourth as four-year-olds in the 2023 and 2025 editions of the FWD Champions Mile, respectively. Galaxy Patch was fifth in 2024, while California Spangle finished second at four behind champion Golden Sixty in 2022. Jimmy Ting, trainer of Little Paradise, teams with Zac Purton, a triple winner of the FWD Champions Mile aboard Beauty Generation (2018 & 2019) and Beauty Eternal (2024). Ting said: “I think this is a very open race and it is hard to say who is the best. He’s a good horse. The last few times he ran bad, because in the Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m) he missed the start and, in the Hong Kong Derby he was just too far back.” Little Paradise was held up in the Hong Kong Classic Mile before his dazzling turn of foot was unleashed in the home straight. He clocked a race-best 22.51s final 400m on his way to victory, while in the BMW Hong Kong Derby, he finished a distant ninth. Ting put the Toronado gelding through a 1200m trial on 16 April, making all in 1m 10.96s (25.6, 23.0, 22.3) on the dirt in front of last year’s victor Red Lion, whom he reopposes this weekend, as well as Royal Ascot Group 1 winner Docklands. “His trial was good, and I hope he can run well. Zac is happy – he liked the trial and he thinks he’s in good form,” Ting said. “I think I’d like to see him sit somewhere midfield or closer in the run, but I’ll leave it to Zac – he knows the horse. The trial was a bit hard for him, so there’s no need to do too much.” Purton said: “Before the Classic Mile, I was really impressed. I thought he was a lovely horse, and when I made my decision not to ride him, I did say that I think he will end up the best four-year-old out of the (Four-Year-Old Classic) Series. “Coming back to a mile now is another challenge against the older horses. The four-year-olds don’t have a good record in this race, so I am looking forward to riding him to see how much he’s improved since I’ve last been on him – what feel he gives me, whether I think he can run a mile at this level against the older horses or whether we go down a different path after this. It’s his chance to show us where he is at.” Invincible Ibis is also a frequent winner in Hong Kong, with five successes topped by his BMW Hong Kong Derby triumph last month. A double winner over the mile, the Hellbent gelding, who was third to Little Paradise in that recent barrier trial, links with James McDonald after recent partner Hugh Bowman opted to ride stablemate My Wish. Little Paradise steps from barrier two, while Invincible Ibis goes out of gate five. Stormy Grove, winner of the three-race Four-Year-Old Classic Series’ middle leg – the Hong Kong Classic Cup worth HK$13 million – is a standby starter for the FWD Champions Mile. Sunday’s (26 April) 11-race FWD Champions Day fixture at Sha Tin commences at 12.30pm with the Class 4 FWD Insurance Act Private Handicap (1200m). By Declan Schuster

Aiming for the unbeaten record in Malaysia is six-year-old Australian bred LUCKY EIGHT ONE (4), which is a chance of picking up another Class 4B contest in the 1200m SOGO Kuala Lumpur Stakes (Race 2) on Saturday. Prepared by HY Cheng, LUCKY EIGHT ONE (4) treated his rivals with contempt with a sharp burst of acceleration to win decisively over the 1200m trip here three weeks ago. The galloper was coming from an unsuccessful stint in Hong Kong where he finished unplaced in eleven outings, but it seems he has already found his niche in Malaysia and is a genuine hope of going back-to-back. BULL FIGHT (7) has returned to racing in fine fettle with two wins from three runs this campaign and is also coming off a win in the same grade last start. BUURAQ SIXTY-ONE (1) also looks well placed to finish in the money dropping back to the “B” division while RELEASE THE SPIRIT (6) will strip a lot fitter second up from a spell. Race 2 Selections: 4 – 7 – 1 – 6 The Banker’s Stable has made a huge impact on the local scene with their team of multiple runners and will have several chances lined up again this weekend over the two days of racing. Even though the stable has been represented by more than one runner in the same race on numerous occasions, the win strike rate of 15.4% is commendable with 25 winners so far this season. It has been well over a decade since Selangor trainer Johnny Lim won the premiership but is currently enjoying his beat season for some time as he returns to the top of the ladder with 26 winners (15.6%). The affable conditioner will combine with the Banker’s Stable in Race 3 as three-year-old BANKER’S WARRIOR (1) will be aiming for successive wins on the upgrade. The Australian bred only goes up 3kg after the apprentice claim from his 1300m Restricted Maiden win a fortnight ago and from pole position, he has struck a winnable Class 4B contest. IMPERIAL GENIE (7) and DEFEATER (2) finished 1st and 2nd respectively in a Class 4B event here at the same meeting and are both major chances. Proven performers at this level, they both will be hard to hold out on current form. PANTONG (3) has only scored once from ten starts in the country and that win was recorded over Saturday’s track and distance in September last year. The six-year-old is only a moderate beginner but is suited dropping to the “B” division. Race 3 Selections: 1 – 2  – 7 – 3 Speaking of commendable strike rates with the current crop of leading owners, the Mega Captain Stable is striking at 18.0% with seven winners during the 2026 season. MEGA CRUSADER (8) represents the outfit in the 1400m Alamanda Putrajaya Stakes (Race 6) and is coming off a credible 4th when resuming in a competitive NZB Ready To Run Graduate Cup on April 5. The three-year-old was spelled following successive wins on Track Two back in January and will be hard to beat back in Class 4 grade. The Frank Maynard stable mates TREES OF VALINOR (5) and CAMPIONESSA (4) are progressive four-year-olds with more race experience and are expected to feature also. ARTOIS (1) has not been blessed with decent barrier draws since scoring at his local debut in February and from barrier nine, he may require luck in running again. Race 6 Selections: 8 – 5 – 4 – 1 MEGA ACE (2), another three-year-old representing the Mega Captain Stable, can immediately atone for his recent failure in the G1 Tunku Gold Cup and bounce back in the 1020m Sunway Pyramid Mall Stakes (Race 8). With an abundance of early speed and a local record of four wins from seven starts, MEGA ACE (2) is unbeaten in two starts at the track and distance. BANKER’S EMPEROR (3), a winner over the 1020m journey here in December, resumed with an eye-catching 2nd behind progressive type Fortune Rising on March 29 and is well drawn to be prominent throughout. FRIGHT (1) was outclassed in the G1 Tunku Gold Cup last start and is expected to improve despite the 6kg rise and WITNESSIMPACT (7) returned to winning from at Ipoh last month and is a definite trifecta chance. Race 8 Selections: 2 – 3 – 1 – 7      

In a relatively small field of eight runners, the world’s best sprinter KA YING RISING looks poised to claim the HK$24 million Group 1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize at Sha Tin this Sunday. KA YING RISING has made history as the first horse to record 19 consecutive wins in Hong Kong, and that remarkable streak shows no signs of ending. So dominant has he become that the focus has shifted from whether he will win to how far he will win by—and whether he might break the track record again. Sent off at minimum odds in each of his last five starts, the son of Shamexpress cruised to victory in the Group 2 Sprint Cup last time out, stopping the clock at 1:07.12 to set yet another Sha Tin 1200m track record. On paper, this shapes as a one-horse race, with KA YING RISING having already accounted for most of his rivals on multiple occasions. Consistent sprinter HELIOS EXPRESS and Japanese raider SATONO REVE appear the most likely to fill the minor placings.

The highlight of FWD Champions Day – the HK$30 million Group 1 FWD QEII Cup (2000m) – sets the stage for a clash of titans at Sha Tin this Sunday, as local champion ROMANTIC WARRIOR takes on Japanese star MASQUERADE BALL and reigning Hong Kong Vase winner SOSIE. ROMANTIC WARRIOR has remained unbeaten in four local starts since returning from his Middle East campaign in early 2025, most recently completing a hat-trick at the highest level in the Group 1 Hong Kong Gold Cup over this distance 56 days ago. The Danny Shum-trained star has not only dominated the local scene but has also proven himself on the world stage, collecting multiple Group 1 victories abroad. In his current vein of form, he looks primed to secure a fourth QEII Cup title. MASQUERADE BALL, with four wins from just eight starts, is already a Group 1 winner, having captured the Tenno Sho (Autumn) two runs ago. He followed that up with a gallant second to CALANDAGAN—rated the world’s best racehorse of 2025—last time out. If he can reproduce that level of performance at Sha Tin, it would be no surprise to see him extend Japan’s strong recent record in this race following TASTIERA’s victory last year. SOSIE, who has not raced since his emphatic Hong Kong Vase win in December, boasts an impressive record of four wins from eight starts at the highest level. His outstanding first-up strike rate of 83% further enhances his claims, and he is capable of giving ROMANTIC WARRIOR and MASQUERADE BALL a genuine challenge, even if the 2000m trip may be slightly short of his best.

A competitive ten-race programme awaits racing enthusiasts and punters this Sunday at Hollywoodbets Scottsville. The headline races on the card are undoubtedly the Dennis Drier Poinsettia Stakes (Grade 3) and the In Full Flight Handicap (Listed). In Race 7, the Dennis Drier Poinsettia Stakes, Symphony In White is a leading contender. She has been in solid form lately and was very impressive when winning at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth in her last start. She also performs exceptionally well at this track, with a standout run on the 31st of May 2025 in the South African Fillies Sprint (Grade 1). She appeared to be traveling well when hampered at a crucial stage, ultimately finishing just 4.55 lengths behind the winner. Andrew Fortune knows her well, and she could take some beating here. But the race doesn’t end there, as several others are in good form. Stablemate Babelicious is a must-include in all bets. She has shown she can finish strongly on her day and will be right there with Serino Moodley aboard. Mai Sensation, trained by Lucinda Woodruff and ridden by Juan Paul V’D Merwe, commands respect. She hasn’t been far off in recent outings and will be a serious contender if bringing her best form. Another runner to consider is Asiye Phambili, trained by Duncan Howells. She performs very well at this track and packs plenty of class. With Sean Veale aboard, she’s sure to be a massive runner. Race 8, the In Full Flight Handicap (Listed), this looks set to be another fiercely contested race with many runners holding solid form. Speedman from the Sean Tarry yard stands out on current form. The son of Vercingetorix was highly impressive when winning his last start and appears destined for bigger things. With Craig Zackey in the saddle, who knows him well, another big performance is expected. His versatility across different distances is a sign of a very smart horse. Kaiboy, trained by Candice Bass, is another to keep an eye on. He outran his odds last time out, finishing a close-up fourth behind Dance Variety at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth.He has always been highly regarded, he’s sure to make his presence felt in a big way with Serino Moodley aboard. I’m A Fireball from the Mike and Mathew de Kock yard is another lively contender. He secured a gutsy win at Hollywoodbets Scottsville when beating the classy Roland Garros on the 1^st of March 2026. His last run was outstanding, finishing second behind Malmesbury Missile, and he’s definitely one to watch. All in all, it looks to be a mouth-watering card for punters, and the Pick 6 could be the way to go, with massive pools expected.

Johannesburg, South Africa — The Highveld Feature Race Season concludes with the 2026 Championships Finale on Saturday, 25 April. The card boasts seven features of which there are four Gr2 contests (TAB Senor Santa Stakes, TAB Colorado King Stakes, TAB Camellia Stakes, TAB Igugu Stakes), two Gr3 contests (TAB Protea Stakes, TAB Pretty Polly Stakes) and the TAB Gold Bowl (Listed). TAB SENOR SANTA STAKES The Senor Santa Stakes is named in honour of that game little galloper, Senor Santa, remembered as one of South Africa’s greatest sprint champions. A bright chestnut with a white blaze, the colt bred by Dr. Frank Freeman’s Boland Stud from the Mexico II mare, Mexican Charm, was arguably the finest son of Summerhill’s champion sire, Northern Guest. Selected by Tony Rivalland at the National Yearling Sales, the little horse raced in the interests of Messrs. F.P. and H.J. Cawdry. The colt was trained by Rivalland for his 2 and early 3 year career before passing into the care of Willie Pieters. He raced for 7 seasons, proving effective from 1000m to 1600m, winning at five different racetracks: Clairwood Park, Gosforth Park, Greyville, Scottsville and Turffontein, retiring as a 15-time winner. He is remembered for wins in the G1 Smirnoff Plate, the Gr1 Computaform Sprint (twice), the Gr1 Star Sprint (twice), the Gr1 Natal Flying Championship (now the Mercury Sprint), and the Gr1 First National Bank 1600. The champ also made history when taking on Northern Princess (also a daughter of Northern Guest) in a match race over 1600m, and while the filly won thanks to an inspired ride by Michael Roberts, Senor Santa proved doubters wrong by showing he stayed the mile. His drawing power was such that on a day when there was a cricket test at Kingsmead, a surfing international at North Beach, and the usual distractions of New Year’s Day, Senor Santa packed them into Greyville for the “match” so that only July outpointed him for attendance. The measure of greatness is not always in what you won, but in who you beat and Senor Santa disposed of the likes of such outstanding performers and Gr1 winners as Blue Cossack, Goldmark, Harry’s Echo, Miss Averof, Roland’s Song, Simonside, Speak No Evil and Cape Guineas winner St. John’s Wood, as well as record-breaking Queen’s Plate-winning filly, Wainui. He was the first sprinter to earn over R1 million and ultimately retired with earnings of over R1,7 million. He earned three ARCSA awards and was named South Africa’s Champion 2YO Colt of 1987, as well as Champion Sprinter for 1989 and 1990. Senor Santa retired to Summerhill Stud in KZN and lived out his days as a yearling nanny, but remained a public hero. He was humanely euthanized on June 23, 2014, at the ripe old age of 29. TAB COLORADO KING STAKES By Grand Rapids out of Courageous, Colorado King was bred by Birch Bros at their Vogelvlei Stud in Dordrecht in 1959. ‘The King’ won ten races in South Africa, including the Cape Derby and Durban July, before being campaigned in the USA. At 2, he joined a young Syd Laird, just going out on his own right after the death of his uncle, Syd Garrett, and campaigned in the interests of Mr. P. S. Louw. Colorado King finished 2nd in his first three starts, but finally tasted victory at the 4th attempt, making all to win a 5 f Juvenile Stakes by 1½ lengths without coming off the bit. He added the 1962 Cape of Good Hope Nursery at Milnerton followed by the Stewards Handicap and African Breeders in Durban, closing the season as Champion 2yo. Colorado King was 3¼ lengths 5th to the good colt Loge in the first week of his 3yo season. Returning four months later in a 5f B Division sprint at Kenilworth, he took on a field of older horses, sauntering home on the bit by four lengths. Thus began a six-race win streak that would mark him out as one of our greats. He toyed with a group of top-class 3yos in the 7f Guineas Trial at Kenilworth on January 23, then started as a 6/4 favourite against 12 leading 3YO’s for the Cape Guineas 9 days later. The King made fun of them all. Taking the lead on the turn at the halfway mark, he beat Sea Rover and Majorca by 4½ and 6½ lengths, respectively, in a new track record time. However, he is best remembered for his performance in the Cape Derby. Stan Amos stole the lead on Majorca and was 8 lengths clear with 400 metres to go. However, jockey Robbie Sivewright asked and Colorado King found an astonishing burst, catching the filly to win by 1/2 length, going away. The King beat a strong field of older horses in the Clairwood June Handicap by 3¾ lengths before tilting at the 1963 Durban July. His supporters never had an anxious moment and he won by the best part of two lengths against the likes of Speciality, Jerez and Majorca. Closing his South African account a week later with a respectable 3¼ length 3rd in the Durban Merchants, Colorado King was named Champion 3yo for the season. Sold to an American racing partnership led by Fritz Hawn, Colorado King resumed his career in California in 1964. Under the care of trainer Wally Dunn, he won six races in his first US season, including the Gr1 Hollywood Gold Cup, the Gr2 American Handicap (equalling the world record for 1800m), and the Gr1 1700m Sunset Handicap by seven lengths. In 1965, he won once from nine starts before being retired to stud, but found limited success as a sire. Jockey Robbie Sivewright rated the Colorado King higher than the mighty Sea Cottage. Syd Laird was more reticent, but considered him at least as good as Sea Cottage at 3. He stated, “His tremendous fighting spirit and determination, combined with the fact that he was such a resolute galloper, made him the perfect racing machine.” TAB IGUGU STAKES She may have hailed from Australia, but Igugu was South Africa’s original Triple Tiara Princess. Born on September 16, 2007 at the Kia Ora Stud, Igugu (Galileo-Zarinia) was purchased unnamed by Mick Goss at the 2009 Inglis Melbourne Premier Yearling Sale. Christened Igugu (the Zulu word for jewel), she joined Summerhill’s Emperor’s Palace Ready To Run sale draft in November, where the little filly with the big action was knocked down to Andre Macdonald for R1 million. Trained by Mike de Kock, Igugu debuted on August 26, 2010, astounding everyone by winning by 2.75 lengths. She romped home by 4.5 lengths at the Vaal in September, then stepped out in the Gr3 Joburg Spring Mare & Fillies Challenge for a third consecutive victory. Narrowly beaten in the 2010 Emperor’s Palace Ready To Run Cup, Igugu ran such a courageous 2nd to Ebony Flyer in the Cape Filllies Guineas that in the weeks to follow, Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum purchased a 50% share. Igugu launched her 2011 offensive in style, trouncing Hollywoodboulevard by 4 lengths in the Gauteng Fillies Guineas. She beat Las Ramblas home by 10.25 lengths in the SA Fillies Classic and sealed her place at the top of her class by storming home the best part of 6 lengths in the SA Oaks to be crowned South Africa’s first Triple Tiara princess. Igugu closed her 3YO campaign in Durban, winning the Gr1 Woolavington and bringing down the house by winning the 2011 Vodacom Durban July by the best part of a length. At 4, she made 2 more starts in South Africa, winning both (the Gr2 Ipi Tombe Challenge and the 2012 J&B Met), before heading abroad. She finished 3rd in the Gr2 Balanchine Stakes in Dubai, was tried in Hong Kong’s 2014 QEII Cup, and had two starts in the UK for a 2nd place in the Rosemary Stakes. She retired as a 10-time winner (4 at the Grade 1 level) from 18 lifetime starts. Her wins were achieved from 1200m to 2450m and included the Gr1 SA Fillies Classic, the Gr1 Woolavington Stakes, the Gr1 Durban July, and the Gr1 J&B Met. Her accomplishments included being South Africa’s first Triple Tiara winner, 2011 Equus Champion 3YO Filly, 2011 Equus Champion Middle Distance Horse, 2011 Equus Horse of the Year, and 2012 Equus Champion Older Filly/Mare. Igugu retired to stud, leaving behind two foals: a 2015 Dansili filly named Atlaal and a 2016 Dansili colt named El Misk. The Australian Stud Book reported that Igugu died on November 24, 2016. TAB PRETTY POLLY STAKES Arguably one of the greatest race fillies as well as one of the most influential broodmares of the 20th century, Pretty Polly was bred by Major Eustace Loder and foaled at his Eyrefield Lodge Stud near the Curragh in Ireland in March 1901. By Gallinule out of Admiration, Pretty Polly was a chestnut filly with a star and a white sock on her near fore.  She was a quirky type, narrowly escaping serious injury with some of her early capers.  Trained by Peter Gilpin at his Clarehaven Stables in Newmarket, she raced at 2, 3, 4 and 5 over distances from 5f to 2 ¼ miles, garnering 22 wins (of which 15 were consecutive) and 2 seconds from 24 times of asking, including the 1,000 Guineas, Oaks, St. Leger, Coronation Cup, Champion Stakes and Jockey Club Cup. Pretty Polly’s unique personality endeared her to the racing public. After each victory, she came to expect a lump of sugar from her trainer’s wife to be given to her in the winner’s enclosure. She developed a strong attachment to a cob named Little Missus, who became her inseparable companion during her racing days. Little Missus would create a good deal of amusement by cantering with Pretty Polly to the start of many of her races. There were times when after a win, Pretty Polly would whinny for her friend, the two would affectionately rub noses, and then Little Missus would accompany Pretty Polly, her lad and her trainer, back to the stable. Pretty Polly’s stud record is equally prodigious.  Although her colts proved modest, she produced 4 daughters: Molly Desmond, Dutch Mary, Polly Flinders and Baby Polly, through which her influence still continues strongly. Dutch Mary was the first to make her mark through her great-grandson Donatello, an Italian Derby winner and important sire, and her branch of the family also produced Epsom Derby winner, Psidium. Via Molly Desmond, she is responsible for the mighty Brigadier Gerard, arguably the best horse bred in Britain in the 20th century, as well as Derby winners St Paddy, Workforce and Wings Of Eagles; important sires such as Nearctic, Great Nephew and Luthier, and top-ranking fillies Flying Water, Shadayid and Russian Rhythm as well as 2015 Oaks victrix, Qualify. The Polly Flinders branch is responsible for Supreme Court, winner of the first running of the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes and Eclipse Stakes winner, Arctic Explorer. Later stars included crack sprinter Marwell and her daughter Marling, Gold Cup victor Paean and Oaks heroine Unite. Baby Polly had fewer opportunities at stud, with only two effective daughters, but through one came Vaguely Noble’s sire Vienna, and Arc de Triomphe hero Carroll House descended from the other. Pretty Polly died at the grand age of 30 in August 1931. TAB GOLD BOWL The TAB Gold Bowl has long been one of South Africa’s premier staying events and its honour roll is the preserve of such doughty names as Furious, Gigantic, Aquanaut (who won back-to-back renewals in 1987 and 1988) and more recently, international campaigner Hermoso Mundo. It is one of only 4 feature events on the calendar staged over the testing distance of 3200m and with a very attractive stake cheque of R400,000, ranks among the richest Listed race contests in the country.

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Final fields below:  TAB SENOR SANTA STAKES (Grade 2) (Open) R500000 1160m 1 – 12 BUFFALO STORM CODY (A P Peter) R Fourie 62.0 – 132 2 – 5 WILLIAM ROBERTSON (C Spies) T Mayhew 62.0 – 124 3 – 9 COSMIC SPEED (S G Tarry) C Zackey 60.0 – 120 4 – 6 TRUTH (C/T Dawson) S Moodley 60.0 – 119 5 – 3 ZIYASHA (C Binda) C Habib 60.0 – 118 6 – 11 MOUNT PINATUBO (J J van Vuuren) K de Melo 58.0 – 113 7 – 8 BUSSTOPINHOUNSLOW (G J Maroun) M V’Rensburg 56.0 – 110 8 – 4 ANFIELDS ROCKET (G J Maroun) R A Venniker 54.0 – 106 9 – 2 CHARMING CHEETAH (R Klaasen) M Yeni 54.0 – 106 10 – 1 THE LAST DUKE (P F Matchett) P Mxoli 52.0 – 102 11 – 10 THE SPECIALIST (S G Tarry) M K Katjedi 52.0 – 101 12 – 7 JERUSALEMA RAIN (S G Tarry) M Michel 52.0 – 100 Same Trainer: (3,11,12) (7,8)   TAB COLORADO KING STAKES (Grade 2) (Horses at Weight for Age + Penalties) R500000 2000m 1 – 1 FIRE ATTACK (A G Laird) R Fourie 60.0 – 124 2 – 5 ATTICUS FINCH (A G Laird) C Habib 59.0 – 127 3 – 3 CHOISAANADA (E Verdonese) R A Venniker 58.0 – 121 4 – 6 THE ULTIMATE KING (A P Peter) T Mayhew 58.0 – 117 5 – 2 FIELD MARSHAL (N Kotzen) C Zackey 58.0 – 110 6 – 4 BAKWENA (J J van Vuuren) K de Melo 55.5 – 97 7 – 7 COPPER EAGLE (R Klaasen) S Moodley 54.5 – 97 Same Trainer: (1,2)   TAB CAMELLIA STAKES (Grade 2)(For Fillies and Mares) R350000 1160m 1 – 4 RODEO DRIVE (S G Tarry) P Mxoli 60.0 – 113 2 – 6 ALMOND SEA (A P Peter) R Fourie 59.0 – 119 3 – 8 WHISTLE THE TUNE (C/T Dawson) M Yeni 59.0 – 116 4 – 9 CHROME TOURMALINE (F P Habib) R A Venniker 59.0 – 107 5 – 3 DESTINY OF FIRE (M/M de Kock) C Murray 59.0 – 100 6 – 2 GREEN DIAMOND (S G Tarry) C Zackey 58.0 – 111 7 – 5 ONE FINE WINTER (S G Tarry) K de Melo 57.0 – 105 8 – 7 RACHEL WALL (A P Peter) S Moodley 57.0 – 105 9 – 10 RIFLE QUEEN (A P Peter) C Habib 57.0 – 105 10 – 1 PERFECT MIRACLE (A P Peter) M V’Rensburg 57.0 – 96 Same Trainer: (1,6,7) (2,8,9,10)   TAB IGUGU STAKES (Grade 2) (For Fillies and Mares at Weight for Age + Penalties) R350000 2000m 1 – 4 OLIVIA’S WAY (R R Magner) M V’Rensburg 60.0 – 114 2 – 6 CALLMEGETRIX (S G Tarry) C Zackey 60.0 – 113 3 – 2 MINOGUE (C/T Dawson) M Yeni 59.0 – 114 4 – 3 INDIAN OCEAN (M Pandaram) T Godden 59.0 – 105 5 – 8 DOITWITHDIAMONDS (A P Peter) C Habib 59.0 – 99 6 – 1 SOLDIER’S EYE (W/W Marwing) K J Lihaba 59.0 – 94 7 – 5 CHARGE IT (A Wright) R Fourie 55.5 – 113 8 – 7 DAISY JONES (M G Azzie) R A Venniker 55.5 – 108 TAB GOLD BOWL (Listed)(Open) R400000 3200m 1 – 3 SHOOT THE RAPIDS (N Kotzen) C Zackey 62.0 – 117 2 – 1 POETS WARRIOR (M G Azzie) R A Venniker 60.0 – 114 3 – 2 ALADDIN’S LAMP (M/M de Kock) C Murray 56.0 – 106 4 – 7 ENFLAME (C/T Dawson) S Moodley 56.0 – 104 5 – 10 NEBRAAS (S G Tarry) M Michel 54.0 – 101 6 – 5 HOTARUBI (C I Jonker) M Yeni 54.0 – 97 7 – 9 TAXHAVEN (P F Matchett) P Mxoli 52.0 – 96 8 – 8 MO MENT (B Webber) J R Syster 52.0 – 93 9 – 4 BATTLEGROUND (M N Houdalakis) C Maujean 52.0 – 92 10 – 6 ROYAL INVITATION (B Webber) J Gates 51.5 – 99 Same Trainer: (8,10)   TAB PROTEA STAKES (Grade 3) (For 2 yo R100 000 Win BSA / CRS Bonus) R300000 1100m 1 – 3 TIME IS PRECIOUS (J J van Vuuren) C Murray 60.0 – 92 2 – 7 GIMME A VODKA (S G Tarry) C Zackey 58.0 – 97 3 – 1 GIMME SOME LUCK (F P Habib) M Yeni 58.0 – 92 4 – 6 SHERLOCK HOLMES (A P Peter) K Strydom 58.0 – 86 5 – 2 STATUS SYMBOL (S G Tarry) K de Melo 58.0 – 88 6 – 5 THE BRONX BULL (A P Peter) C Habib 58.0 – 96 7 – 4 KAVADY (M Pandaram) T Godden 55.5 – 88 Same Trainer: (2,5) (4,6)   TAB PRETTY POLLY STAKES (Grade 3)(For 2 yof R100 000 Win BSA / CRS Bonus) R250000 1100m 1 – 5 GOOD DAY SUNSHINE (M/M de Kock) R Fourie 60.0 – 99 2 – 2 CUSTODIAN (R Klaasen) C Habib 58.0 – 84 3 – 1 GET UP (S G Tarry) C Zackey 58.0 – 97 4 – 3 LANZAROTE (J J van Vuuren) K de Melo 58.0 – 87 5 – 4 LOVE NOT WAR (S T Pettigrew) C Murray 58.0 – 81 6 – 7 NO DRAMA (P F Matchett) M Yeni 58.0 – 83 7 – 6 QUEEN LEILA (P F Matchett) P Mxoli 58.0 – 88 8 – 9 USHOULDBEDANCING (R Klaasen) K Strydom 58.0 – 82 9 – 8 LADY HARLEQUIN (C/T Dawson) S Moodley 55.0 – 0 Same Trainer: (2,8) (6,7)   TAB GOLD BOWL (Listed) (Open) R400000 3200m 1 – 3 SHOOT THE RAPIDS (N Kotzen) C Zackey 62.0 – 117 2 – 1 POETS WARRIOR (M Azzie) R Venniker 60 – 114 3 – 2 ALADDIN’S LAMP (M/M de Kock) C Murray 56 – 106 4 – 7 ENFLAME (C/T Dawson) S Moodley 56 – 104 5 – 10 NEBRAAS (S Tarry) M Michelle 54 – 101 6 – 5 HOTARUBI (C Jonker) M Yeni 54 – 97 7 – 9 TAXHAVEN (P Matchett) P Mxoli 52 – 96 8 – 8 MO MENT (B Webber) J Syster 52 – 93 9 – 4 BATTLEGROUND (L Houdalakis) C Maujean 52 – 92 10 – 6 ROYAL INVITATION (B Webber) J Gates 51.5 – 99 Same Trainer: (8,10)      

April 23rd 2026 The international stars stepped out for their final serious pieces of work on Thursday morning ahead of FWD Champions Day, with several of the headline acts giving a timely reminder of their class at Sha Tin. Japanese sprint hope Satono Reve was one of those to catch the eye, working strongly on the course proper in his final major tune-up before Sunday’s assignment. There was a minor mishap as he went past the winning post, losing a shoe in the process, but his work itself was sharp and added to the sense that the overseas raiders have arrived ready to make their presence felt. Another Japanese runner was Strauss who had the services of Joao Moreira in the saddle as we was allowed to stroll out on the turf course. The recent Abu Dhabi Gold Cup winner looked fit and seemed to recover well after his workout.

Local superstar Romantic Warrior was one of the early workers, on the track shortly after the sun came up, and trainer Danny Shum later struck a confident tone when speaking with Andrew Le Jeune at the morning press conference. Asked whether it had been a perfect build-up to match his horse’s perfect season so far, Shum was positive in his assessment. “Yeah, he galloped really well. Every time Hugh (Bowman) rides, he really, really tries. He galloped the horse for me and two trials, and he always gave me very, very positive reports.” Romantic Warrior heads into the FWD QEII Cup looking for his fourth win in the race with enormous local support, but Shum knows the challenge is a deep one this year, with quality visitors joining the home team in what shapes as one of the strongest renewals in recent memory. “I think in the last 15 or 20 years, this is the the strongest QE2 probably in Hong Kong,” Shum said. “We are very happy so many good horses to come. It’s going to be good fun. He’s the horse I cannot tell you, but I love him, and he loves me too.”

There was also plenty of focus on sprinting sensation Ka Ying Rising, who continues to build a formidable reputation with every run. Trainer David Hayes gave media a glowing report on the star sprinter’s preparation, describing a horse who has done everything right throughout the campaign. “Just hasn’t put a foot wrong,” Hayes said. “Probably since the press conference in the Everest, it’s gone very smooth… He is trainer proof.” When asked if there had been any issues at all with the horse this season, Hayes made it clear Ka Ying Rising has been the ultimate stable star. “He always pulls up fine, he’s good in the mornings, he’s very straightforward, he’s never given any problems at all,” Hayes said. “He’s trained aggressively. His weight last season, he weighed probably 15, 20 pounds lighter. And this season, he’s consistently held ever since the Everest, the 1150. I think he’ll be around that when he’s weighed today, if not, he’ll be very close. So he really hasn’t given us a headache. He’s very straightforward.”

Champion jockey Zac Purton echoed that confidence when he discussed Ka Ying Rising’s condition after partnering him in his recent work. Purton said the gelding had come through his latest run in terrific order and looked primed to produce again on Sunday. “He’s been really good,” Purton said. “He put up a career-best performance last start in what I thought were difficult conditions. We had a very strong headwind out of the gates and then a tailwind pushing us up the straight, so it was surprising he could run that time because the times on the day were generally slow. “Since that run, Dave hasn’t had to do too much with him. He just walked around on the grass last week, then we fired him up and he was a little bit fresh, which was to be expected because he hadn’t done much since the race. “I rode him the week before he went to the track and he was really on song. He skipped up the straight comfortably, extended nicely and ran a good time, especially over the last furlong. “I jumped on him again on Tuesday on the dirt and after that hit-out he was more relaxed and back to his normal self. He pulled up very clean in the wind, as you’d expect from a very fit horse. He’s fresh, he looks good and he’s ready to go on Sunday.” By Scott Bailey Barrier Draw Positions 

Chairman’s Sprint Prize

1. Ka Ying Rising — Barrier 3
2. Satono Reve — Barrier 8
3. Helios Express — Barrier 6
4. Fast Network — Barrier 2
5. Raging Blizzard — Barrier 7
6. Comanche Brave — Barrier 4
7. Tomodachi Kokoroe — Barrier 1
8. Beauty Waves — Barrier 5

FWD QEII Cup

1. Masquerade Ball — Barrier 6
2. Romantic Warrior — Barrier 5
3. Royal Champion — Barrier 1
4. Sosiie — Barrier 2
5. Giovanni — Barrier 8
6. June Take — Barrier 7
7. Rubylot — Barrier 3
8. Numbers — Barrier 4

FWD Champions Mile

1. Jantar Mantar — Barrier 6
2. Voyage Bubble — Barrier 12
3. Docklands — Barrier 1
4. Lucky Sweynesse — Barrier 4
5. My Wish — Barrier 10
6. Red Lion — Barrier 8
7. Galaxy Patch — Barrier 13
8. Strauss — Barrier 7
9. Cap Ferrat — Barrier 14
10. Invincible Ibis — Barrier 5
11. Sunlight Power — Barrier 3
12. Chancheng Glory — Barrier 9
13. Copartner Prance — Barrier 11
14. Little Paradise — Barrier 2

   

FWD QEII Cup Giovanni Cantered for one lap on the all-weather track. Trainer Haruki Sugiyama said: “To be honest, I was hoping for an inside draw, but with a small field, it’s not a big concern. It’s his first trip overseas, so we’ll do everything we can to have him in the best possible shape on raceday.” Royal Champion The eight-year-old took to the dirt track for the second day in a row, but this time he was given a faster piece of work, clocking 1m 22.6s (32.2, 27.5, 22.9) over 1200m. He pulled hard under his rider and proved difficult to ease down. Stable representative Jack Lander said: “He had a canter around and a breeze up the straight. We won’t do much with him tomorrow. We’ll just try and freshen him up.” FWD Champions Mile Strauss Galloped with Joao Moreira in the saddle on the turf track, clocking 1m 22.0s (32.0, 27.4, 22.6) over 1200m. Trainer Ryo Takei said: “He’s in excellent condition. Joao even said, ‘Not just good, he’s at his best.’ We’ve been using a strong bit to control him and Joao is handling him very well. “Abu Dhabi was not a main target for him. He was in good condition there, but probably not quite at 100%. This time, however, this race has been the main target, and he’s come here in very good shape. “In his previous overseas trips, the fields were small, but here in Hong Kong there are plenty of Japanese runners, which has helped him relax and settle into his routine. We had already done the necessary work back in Japan, so I didn’t feel we needed to push him too much here. I told Joao to let him run naturally and only ask him if needed. “He won his debut on a heavy track, so I don’t think the ground will be an issue this time either. Joao also mentioned that he’s adapting well to the surface here. “With top-class competition, including Japan’s mile champion Jantar Mantar, it would be a fantastic result if we could win this race. “(Regarding the draw) I’m leaving that to Joao, so I’m not too concerned. He was a bit on edge when he first arrived, but he’s gradually settled in and is adapting well.” Chairman’s Sprint Prize Comanche Brave Comanche Brave’s travelling head lad Darragh Dwan said: “We are jumping back to six furlongs (1200m) for the first time in a while and we will give it our best shot. He is a very versatile horse.” Dwan said they would be trying their best against Ka Ying Rising, who has taken the world by storm and looks “a bit of a freak”. Satono Reve Satono Reve exercised in the trotting ring in the international stable area and moved to the turf track for a gallop under his regular exercise rider Ryusuke Saito. After warming up in front of the grandstand, he worked from the 1600m mark, clocking 50.0s (25.5, 24.5) over 800m. Saito said: “He showed an appropriate level of eagerness and was not affected by the heat, maintaining good energy throughout. He moved satisfactorily, as he felt really good all the way to the finish. He changed leads smoothly and his overall balance was at the same level to how he was in Japan. It turned out to be a productive piece of work.”

The road to the Hollywoodbets Durban July, South Africa’s premier race with a R10 million purse, officially began with the release of first entries. With an affordable initial fee, a wide pool of hopefuls has emerged, signalling another competitive renewal.

Two early entrants, Count Of Rouen and Johnny The Thief, step out at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Friday, contesting a strong Class 3 Handicap over 1900m. Trainer Dean Kannemeyer holds a solid hand with Continentalexpress and Uzwano. While Continentalexpress is consistent, Uzwano—trying the trip for the first time—appears the more progressive, with his pedigree suggesting he will stay.

Count Of Rouen is expected to improve on a needed last run, while Johnny The Thief, highly regarded, was finishing well over an inadequate distance and could feature if stepping up. Mohave Prince, unbeaten in two with blinkers, carries a light weight and is a major contender, while front-runner Go Grayson Go could prove dangerous if left alone in front.

Earlier races present tricky betting heats. Many first-timers in the opener make market moves key. Peace Rose and Peach Melba headline Race 2, though Emerald could surprise if reproducing her Highveld promise. Kiartay and Bison Warrior look solid for exotic bets, both showing progression and suited by the step up in trip.

The Pick 6 begins with Gold Gol Baby, who brings strong Western Cape form and sets the standard. Bai Yulu impressed on debut and can improve, while Flickering Light is an outsider with upside over this distance.

Mid-card handicaps remain competitive. Tobacconist is consistent and well suited at the trip, while Hodge Podge arrives in top form after a convincing win. I’m Invictus looks progressive in blinkers, and My Boy Lollipop could improve significantly over further.

Later, Silver Salute is well positioned to follow up her course-and-distance win despite a small rating rise. Gran Occasion and Blue Poppy are dangers, while West Side Story is a lightweight outsider.

The finale is wide open. Take Your Place benefits from a rating drop, Call Of The Karoo carries top weight but has strong rider support, and Amafort, unbeaten in blinkers, looks the one to beat in pursuit of a hat-trick.

FWD QEII Cup June Take June Take conducted a final workout on the turf track with jockey Joao Moreira in the saddle, clocking 1m 18.4s (29.4, 25.7, 23.3) over 1200m. Trainer Hidenori Take said: “After the exercise in the trotting ring, I instructed Joao to gradually pick up the pace from around 1200m, adjusting to the horse’s condition, and to finish in approximately 25 seconds. The horse had been in very good condition up to that point, with a strong appetite and a relaxed demeanour, so I told Joao to train the horse according to how he felt on the day. I also noted that it would be fine to push him in the final stretch, or to leave him as he was if the response was good. “He moved nicely, and he showed smooth acceleration even after changing leads. When working alone, he can sometimes lose focus, but in races, he tends to become eager, so I believe being settled is a positive. “Although the workout went as planned, there was some concern about the horse’s condition after the jockey dismounted. However, after returning to the stable, the horse was thoroughly examined by veterinarians and no issues were found. As this was likely his first time on a turf course and he was working alone, the unfamiliar surroundings and equipment might have distracted him. There were no problems with his legs, and overall the horse remained in good condition.” Masquerade Ball Masquerade Ball had a solid, fast work session on turf, clocking 1m 20.4s (30.5, 25.0, 24.9) over 1200m with trainer Takahisa Tezuka supervising him. Trainer Tezuka said: “Although he was a bit edgy, his work went smoothly overall. As this will be his first race in five months, we have put in solid preparation in Japan, both in terms of workload and quality. “After arriving in Hong Kong, he seemed slightly unsettled, perhaps due to the heat, so we instructed the work rider to go easier than originally planned today. He hasn’t often breezed alone at home, and it appeared that he might not fully focus without a partner. However, he is well-prepared, and I have no concerns about his condition. “We are not particularly worried about racing right-handed, but with Hong Kong’s rainy season likely to produce softer ground, and the forecast suggesting unsettled weather over the weekend, that could be a challenge. “He has matured not only physically but also mentally. Being a sensitive horse, we feel he has become more composed, and his core strength has improved compared to when he was three, which we see as a positive. “Romantic Warrior is a true hero in Hong Kong, and we are the challengers here, but we hope to make it a competitive race and, if possible, make the most of the opportunity.” Royal Champion Royal Champion was sighted for the first time at trackwork. The G1 Neom Turf Cup (2100m) winner had his ears pricked and looked comfortable during a light circuit of the all-weather track. Stable representative Jack Lander said: “He’s travelled very well. He’s very professional and he’s done it before in Bahrain and Saudi. He’s eight, so he’s done it all before. He’s got such a good attitude towards it all so it’s very handy to have a horse who takes it all in his stride. Hopefully, if he’s in the same form as his other international starts, he can put up a good fight.” FWD Champions Mile Docklands The G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Mile (1600m) fourth took to the all-weather track for the first time this week, leading Royal Champion in a steady piece of exercise. He arrives here fit after a win in the Listed Doncaster Mile (1600m) on 28 March. Stable representative Laura Pike said: “He’s great, as always. He loves travelling and he knew where he was when he got off the horsebox. It was his first day out on track today just to freshen him up a bit. He was in the ring in the stables yesterday and Monday. This was just to freshen him up as usually he’s here for 10 days or more, whereas it’s only a week this time and he only ran recently. He just did a canter around. He’ll probably go on the grass on Friday.” Jantar Mantar Jantar Mantar had a steady workout for 1200m on the turf track under his exercise rider Takashi Matsui, clocking 1m 18.9s (30.0, 27.4, 21.5) over 1200m. Matsui said: “I am relieved that the workout was completed safely and that he was confirmed to be in good condition. I rode him aiming to maintain a pace of around 15 seconds per furlong from the six-furlong (1200m) mark, then asked him to accelerate smoothly without pushing too hard for the last 400 metres. His reaction was great and he moved beautifully.”

Ronald Arculli’s connection to Hong Kong racing spans approximately six decades, and the former Chairman of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, alongside wife Johanna, can boost an already enviable ownership record when his defending champion returns at Sha Tin. Red Lion is one of Arculli’s foremost gallopers, and the seven-year-old gelding is chasing a second consecutive HK$24 million G1 FWD Champions Mile (1600m) success on FWD Champions Day (Sunday, 26 April). Arculli, 87, served as Chairman from 2002-2006. He has raced more than 80 horses since the 1970s in Hong Kong as a sole owner, partner and in syndicates, with the 1993/94 Triple Crown winner River Verdon – the first Hong Kong-trained horse to compete overseas in 1992 – his standout champion, co-owned by Sir Oswald Cheung. Arculli’s other big-race wins in his home city, including the 1991 Hong Kong Derby (1800m), have come via River Jordan, River Dancer, Go-Getter, Red Cadeaux – winner of the 2012 G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Vase (2400m) – and most recently Red Lion, who is bidding for a second Group 1 triumph when Andrea Atzeni hops up this weekend. Atzeni said: “His most recent trial and the trial before his last run were good, but he just didn’t run accordingly last start (14th in the G2 Chairman’s Trophy, 1600m). John (Size) put blinkers on him in his last trial (on 16 April). He trialled well with them and, hopefully, we get a lot of rain. It’s hard to know, and obviously, the track dries very quickly, too. “Any rain is welcome – hopefully there’s a bit of juice in the ground, and given a smooth run around, he could run very well.” The courageous Red Lion – trained by Australian Racing Hall of Famer Size – finished second in the 2024 FWD Champions Mile at odds of 29/1 before his 89/1 make-all victory over heavy favourite Voyage Bubble in 2025. “I felt like in his trial when he had a bit of room and he’s rolling along, that’s when he’s happy. It seems like he responds a bit better when he’s to the outside,” Atzeni said. “I just feel like he doesn’t like to be on the fence with horses surrounding him and that he needs his own space. He’s quick out of the gates and the blinkers seem to work on him.” Size is going for a sixth win in the race, having also prevailed with Electronic Unicorn (2003), Sight Winner (2009), Contentment (2017) and Beauty Eternal (2024). Red Lion is one of two defending champions reappearing this weekend along with Ka Ying Rising, who is aiming to win a second HK$24 million G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m). Fellow hometown hero Romantic Warrior is trying to land a record fourth HK$30 million G1 FWD QEII Cup (2000m) after triumphs in 2022, 2023 and 2024. By Declan Schuster