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Without A Fight, fresh from his historic cups double for trainers Anthony and Sam Freedman, spearheads the Australian assault on the Gr.1 Hong Kong Vase. The 7YO faces a stern examination against European stars Luxembourg and Dubai Honour over the testing 2400m circuit.
Previous Vase winners include Highland Reel (2015, 2017), who later captured the Prince of Wales's Stakes and Breeders' Cup Turf, and Glory Vase (2019, 2021), who added the QEII Cup to his haul.
Rising star Antino, trained by Chris Waller, tackles the Gr.1 Hong Kong Mile following a meteoric rise through Australia's ranks. The 4YO meets familiar foes in Lazzat and Docklands, both bringing strong southern hemisphere form to Sha Tin's famous mile.
Recommendation flies the flag for trainer Ciaron Maher in the Gr.1 Hong Kong Sprint, where local sensation Ka Ying Rising awaits in the 1200m dash.
The Australian challenge is bolstered by a strong riding contingent, with Damian Lane, Blake Shinn and Mark Zahra all securing prime mounts at the prestigious meeting.
HKJC Executive Director of Racing Andrew Harding emphasised the meeting's significance: "The LONGINES Hong Kong International Races are one of the most important racing events on the global calendar. We look forward to hosting a decorated line-up from many corners of the globe."
The December showpiece has historically showcased champions from across the racing world, with past winners going on to claim major honours in Europe, Japan and beyond.