Crushing Trial win perfect preparation for Hong Kong Cup mission
The Hong Kong Cup revenge mission is proceeding 'full steam ahead' after Viva Pataca won yesterday's HK$3 million Cathay Pacific International Cup Trial in a common canter, leaving the owner, trainer and jockey licking their lips in anticipation of a glorious international day next month.
Viva Pataca confirmed his status as the highest-rated horse in town with a soft 11/4 lengths win over a gallant Hawkes Bay (Felix Coetzee) in the Group Two event over 2,000 metres. And as far as Darren Beadman is concerned, it's all about attitude.
'That's the major difference with him this year, his attitude,' Beadman said. 'Twelve months ago, he'd be behind the starting stalls and you could feel his heart racing. He was sweating nervously, getting very angry and agitated, and using up a lot of energy in the process.
'Now he's cool, calm and collected. He's not worrying about things the way he used to. John and the staff have done a terrific job with him this season, he's just so professional now.'
The Viva Pataca of old would have to be painstakingly smothered away and held up for one late burst, but the late 2008 edition can do whatever Beadman wants.