INVITATION Bowl winner Winning Partners flew out of Hong Kong last night for the most important race of his career.
The Australian gelding's date with racing destiny comes on May 15 in Tokyo when he tackles, among others, the brilliant European challengers Ski Paradise and Sayyedati in a one-mile, multi-million dollar spectacular organised by the Japan Racing Association.
Trainer Neville Begg was on hand as Winning Partners was boxed up at Sha Tin for his quick trip to Kai Tak. Travelling with the horse are Winston Wong and Leo Ip from Begg's stable.
''I am very pleased with him as he came out of last week's race very well indeed. He has eaten up and looks in grand shape,'' said Begg, who will depart for Tokyo on May 10.
Winning Partners was travelling last night to Tokyo via Taipei and will go into quarantine for six days.
''Nobody doubts that it is going to be a very hard test for him as the quality of the opposition is considerable. But I do believe he will acquit himself and I am looking forward to it,'' said Begg, who will be on hand to personally supervise the final days of Winning Partners' preparation.