Hong Kong reject Paddy Payne could be swapping the racing backwater of Taipa for Queen Elizabeth II Cup glory at Sha Tin next month.
Payne, along with fellow Australian Steven King, is under consideration for the glittering ride on former International Bowl winner Catalan Opening.
The Group One-winning Australian galloper is trained by Bart Cummings, who has already been approached by King for the prized ride. Cummings' racing manager, Bill Charles, confirmed that the stable would prefer a jockey who knows Sha Tin well rather than bring someone in from Australia.
He said: 'We have talked to Steven King and he is definitely a chance to ride the horse.
'Paddy Payne has also ridden for us on many occasions in the past and is well thought of. Originally, Bart was thinking of a top European rider but none of the big names are in Hong Kong at that time.' From Ireland, former champion trainer Dermot Weld also confirmed that Make No Mistake was a runner at Sha Tin on April 18, if he continued to thrive.
Weld, who has tasted success in Hong Kong before, said: 'Make No Mistake has a lot of quality about him and this sort of race should be exactly what he is good for, especially at Sha Tin.' DT & TT guide - Pages 24-25
