Excitement Builds at Sha Tin with Thrilling Lead-Up Races to International Day

Sha Tin was buzzing with anticipation this past Sunday as top contenders showcased their skills in the lead-up races for the highly anticipated International Day next month. The day featured an array of thrilling performances from established champions and rising stars, raising the stakes for the upcoming events.

One standout was the four-year-old gelding Ka Ying Rising, bred in New Zealand and trained to perfection. The talented son of Shamexpress left spectators in awe as he surged to a remarkable three-length victory in the Group II BOCHK Private Banking Jockey Club Sprint (1200m). Not only did he win, but Ka Ying Rising also set a new track record, crossing the line in a breathtaking time of 1:07.43 seconds, a feat that echoed through the racing community and solidified his status as a top contender in the sprinting circuit.

Equally impressive was six-year-old Voyage Bubble, a deep field gelding who demonstrated his prowess by clinching a stylish victory in the Group II BOCHK Private Wealth Jockey Club Mile (1600m). Last year, Voyage Bubble finished as the runner-up in the prestigious G1 HK International Mile behind the reigning champion, Golden Sixty. With this recent win, he is undoubtedly eager to claim the top honor this time around and avenge his previous loss.

Adding to the day’s excitement, the magnificent Romantic Warrior, who captured the renowned Cox Plate in 2023, was back at Sha Tin, and he didn’t disappoint. The Irish-bred champion roared back into form with a commanding performance in the Group II BOCHK Jockey Club Cup (2000m), winning by an impressive margin of over four lengths. With his sights now set on the G1 HK International Cup, he aims to make history by securing a victory for the third consecutive year—an accomplishment that would make him one of the legends of the turf.

As the racing community eagerly anticipates International Day, these standout performances have undoubtedly set the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating showdown next month. Keep your eyes peeled for these top horses as they gear up for the challenge ahead!