Caspar Fownes made yesterday's Group Three Sha Tin Trophy his own, posting a new Hong Kong training milestone by leading in the first four placegetters in the HK$2.3 million feature.
But the stewards almost stole the spotlight when they opened and subsequently adjourned an inquiry into Eric Saint-Martin's handling of Viva Pataca, who steamed home late for fifth after being badly held up at the top of the straight.
Fownes won the race with Green Treasure (Shane Dye), who was having only his second start since transferring to the yard at the end of last season.
Stable stalwart The Duke (Olivier Doleuze) ran a blinder for second, with Bowman's Crossing (Gerald Mosse) a sparkling third and Saturn (Alex Lai Hoi-wing) finishing fourth after leading.
Fownes was elated with the result, achieved from five runners. It was only the late rush of Viva Pataca which robbed him of the perfect result, as his other runner, Hail The Storm (Eddie Lai Wai-ming), held down sixth place after being trapped wide for the entire trip.
'It was quite incredible watching the race and seeing one horse after the other in good positions and travelling well,' Fownes said.
'One minute, it was Olivier, then I looked behind him and saw Shane travelling easily, then Gerald was getting into the clear. It was quite incredible ... what an experience!'
