Freedman charts Hong Kong mission for classy Mahogany

Leading Melbourne trainer Lee Freedman is aiming at the Hong Kong International Bowl (1,400 metres) with star performer Mahogany.

'The track and the distance in Hong Kong will suit him,' Freedman said.

'We originally entered him for the International Bowl with the idea of going, and nothing has changed since.' Raced in partnership by media magnate Kerry Packer - Australia's richest man - and Crown Casino boss Lloyd Williams, Mahogany has proven himself to be a truly outstanding racehorse.

A seven-year-old by Last Tycoon he was acclaimed as Australia's Champion Racehorse of 1993-94, when he captured both the Victoria and Australian Derbies.

In more recent times, however, he has been restricted to sprinting distances. Under Freedman's guidance he has won 19 times and placed 11, amassing A$3.7 million in prize money.

Two starts back Mahogany won the Group Two Chirnside Stakes (1,000 metres) at Caulfield on October 15 and on Thursday he ran a gallant third to Al Mansour and Toledo in the Group Two Emirates Classic (1,200 metres) at Flemington.

Also in contention for selection in the International Bowl is Snippets four-year-old Spartacus, who was second behind Mahogany in the Chirnside. At his only subsequent appearance, Spartacus, who is prepared by Rick Hore-Lacy, was second to Al Mansour in the Moir Stakes (1,000 metres) at Moonee Valley two weeks ago.