WITH only the merest of hiccups, Hong Kong's top-rated horse, Indigenous, continued his progress towards the International Vase as trainer Ivan Allan revealed Dubai World Cup plans for the superb stayer.
Indigenous, unbackable at 7-2 on, scored an expected one-length win in the sponsored National Panasonic Cup at Sha Tin yesterday, ultimately eclipsing the small field that went to the post for the 1,800-metre, Class One event.
For the first time in a career that has now brought in $17 million, Indigenous hung in the straight, probably feeling the very firm ground. He was in behind horses and blocked before Douglas Whyte got him out from behind when he then quickened and ran home stoutly to beat En Rapport (12-1) and stablemate Privilege (6-1).
A pleased Allan later said he had hopes of a berth in Dubai at the World Cup in March.
'Of course, much depends on how we fare in the International Vase but it is our intention to enter him and hope that we get an invitation to compete,' said Allan. 'As for the Vase, we know the horses we are up against, like last year's winner Luso and Posidonas. They are obviously good horses but there's nothing wrong with Indigenous and he will keep the standard flying.
'There was a little moment of concern today when he hung a bit, it is the first time that has happened.' Whyte said: 'We quickened up and he probably felt the ground because he did hang with me. I wasn't too worried because I felt pretty sure I could get him out and when I did, he responded well and there was never really any doubt at all.' Indigenous, who finished fourth to Luso and Posidonas in the Vase last year, remains bang on course for December's renewal.
Patrick Biancone was also wreathed in smiles as Benji (40-1) finished fourth under Eddie W. M. Lai.