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Dubai's premier turf test chosen over dirt challenge
Romantic Warrior will begin his ambitious Middle East campaign on turf rather than dirt, trainer Danny Shum has confirmed, marking a significant change in plans for the eight-time Group One winner.
Following crucial discussions between Shum, owner Peter Lau Pak-fai and jockey James McDonald, the Gr.1 Jebel Hatta (1,800m) has been selected as the preferred option over the Gr.1 Al Maktoum Challenge.
"The owner doesn't want to run him on the dirt first, he will go straight to the dirt in Saudi. Jebel Hatta will allow him to get used to the environment," said Shum of his stable star, who has exclusively campaigned on turf throughout his career.
Previous Jebel Hatta victors include Lord North, who went on to capture the Dubai Turf twice, while Almond Eye claimed the prize before securing Japanese Horse of the Year honours.
The Hong Kong sensation is scheduled to depart on December 17, embarking on what could be a four-month Middle East adventure. His performance in the US$20 million Saudi Cup will determine whether he contests the Gr.1 Dubai World Cup or the Gr.1 Dubai Turf on April 5.
"It's the plan that works for me, the owner and the jockey. All three races James McDonald will ride," Shum confirmed, while noting the logistical challenges ahead. "I haven't been to Dubai for 25 years and I have never been to Saudi. My team will go for four or five months, so there is a lot of work to do."
Romantic Warrior will be accompanied by stablemate Romantic Charm as a companion horse during the extended campaign.
Before departing Hong Kong, the champion will bid for an historic third consecutive victory in the Gr.1 Longines Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) next weekend. A win would elevate him above Golden Sixty as the world's highest-earning racehorse.
Previous Cup winners include international stars Falbrav and Alexander Goldrun, while local hero Jim And Tonic claimed the prize before his successful European raids.