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| Staff Writer |
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YORKSHIRE Cup hero Giavellotto is being primed for a fascinating international challenge in the Hong Kong Vase at Sha Tin, with connections confident the 5YO can handle the drop back to 12 furlongs.
Champion jockey Oisin Murphy is set to continue his association with the Marco Botti-trained entire in the prestigious Group One contest on December 8. The combination struck gold twice this term, landing both the Yorkshire Cup and the Princess of Wales's Stakes at Newmarket's July meeting.
Following a creditable third to Kyprios in the Irish St Leger, Giavellotto has been freshened up for this international assignment. Botti said: "We had a chat with the owner and they are happy to take a chance. We've had a bit of time to freshen him up since the Irish St Leger, he's in great form and he'll take his chance."
The Vase, previously won by highland Reel (2015, 2017) and Glory Vase (2019, 2021), has attracted strong European representation. Gr.1 King George victor Goliath, who contests the Japan Cup this weekend, heads the potential raiders alongside Fantastic Moon and Iresine.
The meeting's other Group One contests have drawn quality fields. Local superstar Romantic Warrior faces Spirit Dancer, The Foxes and Content in the Cup, while Breeders' Cup winner Starlust has been supplemented for the Sprint against rising star Ka Ying Rising. The Mile features Lazzat, Ramadan, Docklands and Soul Rush.
Discussing ground conditions, Botti added: "Last year, they had soft ground at the meeting, but he does want top of the ground, so hopefully it won't be soft again. The plan has always been to drop him back to a mile and a half, so Hong Kong looked the right option, a strong pace will suit him."