A Race to Remember: The Thrilling Chairman's Sprint Prize Awaits

In a nail-biting twist, trainer David Hayes is riding high as his star sprinter, Ka Ying Rising, secures the coveted barrier 4 for the highly anticipated Group 1 Chairman's Sprint Prize at Sha Tin this Sunday. With an incredible opportunity to notch a 12th consecutive victory, the excitement is palpable.

A Perfect Draw: The Stars Align for Hayes

As the barriers were drawn, tension filled the air. With only three options remaining—gates 4, 7, or the daunting outside barrier 13—Hayes held his breath. Fate smiled upon him when rival John Size's Helios Express pulled the outside gate, leaving Ka Ying Rising with a dream draw. "I was ecstatic to see barrier 13 come out for Helios Express," Hayes exclaimed. "Barrier 4 is a dream come true in this scenario!"

Confidence Boost: A Champion in Form

Hayes is confident that Ka Ying Rising is in the finest form of his career, ready to unleash his full potential on race day. He believes if all goes smoothly, the odds will favor him at a whopping $1.10 to $1.20—a bet not to be missed! "If he performs better than $1.20, back him without hesitation," Hayes said.

Unleashing Speed: Can Ka Ying Rising Break Records?

This versatile galloper thrives in various track conditions, and Hayes speculates that if the early pace is swift enough, Ka Ying Rising could shatter his own Sha Tin record of 1:07.2 for six furlongs. "If he gets a fast start, he might take the lead. If he jumps evenly, he’ll find a prime position behind the speed," Hayes detailed, leaving the race strategy in the capable hands of jockey Zac Purton.

Strong Competition: Japan's Finest vs. Hong Kong's Best

Rivaling Hayes’ sprinter are four formidable contenders from Japan, including Satono Reve, who recently impressed with a victory in the Takamatsunomiya Kinen (G1). Drawing gate 6, jockey Joao Moreira—who rode Satono Reve in his last two outings—acknowledges the challenge ahead. "Ka Ying Rising deserves respect. He’s a phenomenal horse, and it won’t be easy to dethrone him," Moreira admitted.

Rising to the Challenge: Moreira's Optimism

Moreira remains optimistic about his chances, noting Satono Reve’s rapid improvement as a 6-year-old. "He doesn’t need to improve much from his last performance to match Ka Ying Rising. The momentum is with us, and we’re going to give it our all," he commented.

A Spectacle Awaits: The Stage is Set for Sprinting Glory!

As the excitement mounts leading up to the race, spectators can expect an explosive showdown between Ka Ying Rising and his challengers. Will Hayes’ champion continue his victory streak, or will Japanese contenders pull off a thrilling upset? One thing's for certain—a spectacle of unparalleled racing action is just around the corner!