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| Staff Writer |
Aidan O'Brien's globe-trotting star Luxembourg heads a compelling renewal of the Longines Hong Kong Vase, bringing Group One-winning form over the 2400m trip following his triumph in the Gr.1 Coronation Cup at Epsom. The 5YO, who narrowly missed out in last year's Hong Kong Cup, faces stiff competition from French raider Marquisat, representing master trainer André Fabre, who seeks back-to-back victories following Junko's success in 2022.
Japanese filly Stellenbosch, partnered by Joao Moreira, enters the fray following a creditable third in the Gr.1 Shuka Sho, while Melbourne Cup hero Without A Fight arrives fresh from an eye-catching third in the VRC Champions Stakes.
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Local hope Galaxy Patch leads the charge in the Mile division, looking to bounce back from a recent defeat in what promises to be a more suitable contest. Japanese challenger Soul Rush brings rock-solid form, including a notable fourth in last year's renewal and a recent victory in the Mile Championship.
Voyage Bubble, runner-up to the legendary Golden Sixty in 2022, enters in peak condition following success in the Jockey Club Mile. Adding intrigue is the lightly-raced Jantar Mantar, unbeaten over the mile and featuring a prestigious NHK Mile Cup victory on his CV.
Hong Kong's pride Romantic Warrior seeks an unprecedented third consecutive Cup victory, having demonstrated his wellbeing with a commanding seasonal return in the Jockey Club Cup. The defending champion faces Japanese Triple Tiara winner Liberty Island, who looks to bounce back from a troubled run in the Tenno Sho Autumn.
Tastiera, runner-up in the same Tenno Sho contest, brings classic-winning credentials as the 2023 Japanese Derby victor, while local contender Straight Arron could surprise following an encouraging preparation under new handler Ricky Yiu.
Hong Kong's newest sprinting sensation Ka Ying Rising headlines the Sprint division, having announced himself as a world-class talent by breaking Sacred Kingdom's long-standing track record. The 4YO faces domestic rival Helios Express, who has been finding only the favourite too good in recent outings.
Japanese speedsters Lugal and Toshin Macau, first and second in September's Gr.1 Sprinters Stakes, add international flavour to a compelling sprint contest.
The Hong Kong International Races have witnessed numerous memorable performances over the years. Highland Reel's double Vase victory (2015, 2017), Good Ba Ba's hat-trick of Mile wins (2007-2009), and California Memory's back-to-back Cup successes (2011-2012) stand out among the roll of honour. The Sprint has seen local heroes like Sacred Kingdom and Silent Witness dominate, while international stars such as Lord Kanaloa have also left their mark.