Opinion | A rivalry to match anything in boxing

There's nothing like a great racetrack rivalry to ignite the passion of fans and "The Sha Tin stoush" in yesterday's Jockey Club Mile between Glorious Days and Ambitious Dragon - and the thrilling duel between their arch-rival jockeys - had all the hallmarks of a knock-down, drag 'em out title bout.

This is turning into the equine equivalent of the classic Muhammad Ali v Joe Frazier trilogy, or the three-round "war" between Marvin Hagler and Tommy "The Hitman" Hearns in 1985.

Glorious Days v Ambitious Dragon III, on the big stage of International Day, December 9, will be one for the ages. All we need is ringside announcer Michael Buffer in the Sha Tin parade ring to set the tone pre-race with his "Let's get ready to rumble" catch cry.

Two-time defending horse of the year - the undisputed champ - Ambitious "Hooves of Dynamite" Dragon, had delivered a decisive stoppage in the first bout, the Sha Tin trophy, as his jockey Zac Purton produced a flawless tactical display.

Setting the scene for yesterday's rematch was a sensational late betting move - Glorious "The Silent Assassin" Days slammed in betting in the final minute. There's nothing like the "Lamp of God" being lit - the brown light indicating a horse's odds being halved - to get the natives restless. You don't need to speak Cantonese to realise the poor sods who have already placed their hard-earned are completely freaking out as odds tumble: the tote board lights up like a Christmas tree and all sorts of moans and groans emanate from the packed public stand.

This was the two best horses in town, with the top two jockeys aboard, and the tactical battle was one to savour. Do jockeys ride harder anywhere else? It would be frightening if they did.

While the media's criticism of Douglas Whyte's early season efforts may have been a touch alarmist, it's fair to say he wasn't at his best and had at times been a touch indecisive, at least by his usual impeccable standards.