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| Staff Writer |
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Romantic Warrior is heading for a one-time dirt experience in the US$20 million Saudi Cup with trainer Danny Shum confirming a swift return to turf afterwards.
The Hong Kong-based 7YO has established himself as the world's highest-earning racehorse, amassing 18 victories including 10 at Group One level. His most recent triumph came in the Jebel Hatta at Meydan, where he shattered the track record with a commanding four-and-a-half-length victory under James McDonald.
"Wherever we finish in the Saudi Cup, it is 99 per cent certain he will run next in the Dubai Turf," Shum said.
The decision to target the Saudi showpiece emerged after careful consideration. "James, Peter (Lau Pak Fai, owner) and I discussed running first on dirt in the Al Maktoum Challenge and thought that might be better," explained Shum.
"Peter and I had a lunch meeting and he made a very good point. He said we should run on the turf in Dubai as he could have a (bad) experience on the dirt there, and that the Dubai and Saudi dirt is different. He could win or run really well in Dubai, but that doesn't mean he can run well in Saudi."
The partnership between McDonald and Romantic Warrior has blossomed into something special, as Shum observed: "James has such confidence in the horse. When you watch James and Romantic Warrior – they are one. It is amazing to see. It's incredible."
The trainer's affection for his stable star runs deep: "I am so lucky to have him and he is so good to my stable. As a trainer, I am lucky to have a horse like him and I love him. And the horse loves me and the team.
"I want to keep him for as long as possible – not for the money but because we love each other. I love to see him and feed him carrots and he’s so happy."