https://www.scmp.com/rss/321500/feed The Longines Hong Kong International Races, known as the "turf world championships", will be run on December 10 at Sha Tin. Horses from all over the world flock to the New Territories to run in the HK$25 million Hong Kong Cup (2,000m), HK$23 million Hong Kong Mile (1,600m), HK$18.5 million Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m) and HK$18 million Hong Kong Vase (2,400m). en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Sam Agars,Stephy Zhang Sam Agars,Stephy Zhang A protester calling for a deeper investigation into the Tai Po fire almost cancelled Hong Kong’s richest horse race on Sunday, but even that could not stop Jockey Club boss Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges calling it one of the city’s “greatest days”. With a record number of tourists making the trip to Sha Tin, and two of the city’s stars cementing their places among the world’s greatest racehorses, not even a drop in turnover could dim the CEO’s delight at the climax of the Hong Kong International... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3336398/hkir-one-greatest-days-hong-kong-racing-despite-scary-incident-track-invader?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3336398/hkir-one-greatest-days-hong-kong-racing-despite-scary-incident-track-invader?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Dec 2025 12:09:58 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney James McDonald was speechless and Danny Shum Chap-shing felt great relief as champion galloper Romantic Warrior created history again with a fourth straight Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) triumph. Romantic Warrior became the first galloper to win four features at the Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) when he cruised to victory over Japan’s Bellagio Opera at Sha Tin on Sunday. “He’s so special. He’s just a freak,” McDonald said after guiding Romantic Warrior to an 11th Group One... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336396/romantic-warrior-creates-history-again-fourth-straight-hong-kong-cup-victory?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336396/romantic-warrior-creates-history-again-fourth-straight-hong-kong-cup-victory?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Dec 2025 12:06:33 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Jockey Maxime Guyon, trainer Andre Fabre and owners Wertheimer & Frere snared the Group One Longines Hong Kong Vase (2,400m) for the second time in three years when Sosie stormed to victory at Sha Tin on Sunday. By joining stablemate Junko on the honour roll, Sosie ensured Fabre became the most successful trainer in Vase history with four victories, while Guyon won the HK$26 million contest for the third time. “It’s good for all the team to win the Group One in Hong Kong. All the trainers and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336391/maxime-guyon-and-andre-fabre-deliver-again-sosie-wins-group-one-hong-kong-vase?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336391/maxime-guyon-and-andre-fabre-deliver-again-sosie-wins-group-one-hong-kong-vase?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Dec 2025 10:25:46 +0000 Stephy Zhang Stephy Zhang Tens of thousands of racing fans packed into Sha Tin on Sunday for the climax of the Longines Hong Kong International Races week, hoping to see stars like Romantic Warrior and Ka Ying Rising add to their storied reputations. Visitors from South Africa, Japan, Australia and mainland China mixed with celebrities such as Chinese actor Yu Shi and local dignitaries, in the largest gathering in the city for a sporting occasion since the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po claimed the lives of at least... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3336381/k-pop-star-rain-gets-hong-kong-races-electric-start-thousands-pack-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3336381/k-pop-star-rain-gets-hong-kong-races-electric-start-thousands-pack-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Dec 2025 07:53:38 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Perhaps the two best horses ever trained in Hong Kong will headline what promises to be an action-packed Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) at Sha Tin on Sunday. The highest-earning racehorse of all time with north of HK$217 million to his name, Romantic Warrior will attempt to win an unprecedented fourth consecutive Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m). Victory in the first seven-runner Cup since 2007 would make Romantic Warrior the only four-time HKIR winner and the market suggests only... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336346/hong-kong-heavyweights-headline-action-packed-international-day-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336346/hong-kong-heavyweights-headline-action-packed-international-day-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Dec 2025 00:00:17 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney James McDonald is still in awe of Romantic Warrior as he prepares to chase a record-extending fourth consecutive Group One Longines Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) on the champion galloper at Sha Tin on Sunday. The 10-time Group One hero and world’s highest-earning racehorse with HK$217.7 million in prize money heads into the city’s richest race off the back of a stunning return from injury, comfortably claiming the Group Two Jockey Club Cup (2,000m) last month. “It’s pretty remarkable to think what he’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336313/james-mcdonald-still-awe-romantic-warrior-ive-never-felt-hes-ever-going-lose?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336313/james-mcdonald-still-awe-romantic-warrior-ive-never-felt-hes-ever-going-lose?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 13 Dec 2025 05:40:42 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney James McDonald and Zac Purton are optimistic they will have a big say in a wide-open Group One Hong Kong Mile at Sha Tin on Sunday when they ride Galaxy Patch and Voyage Bubble, respectively. In what looms as the most open contest of the four Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) features, the Mile could become a blockbuster showdown between the two champion jockeys. Galaxy Patch and Voyage Bubble are two of the headline acts in the HK$36 million race, with the former coming off a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336212/james-mcdonald-and-zac-purton-confident-hong-kong-mile-chances-wide-open-contest?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336212/james-mcdonald-and-zac-purton-confident-hong-kong-mile-chances-wide-open-contest?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:14:40 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney When high-profile syndicator Australian Bloodstock went searching for a top-level horse to take them around the world, there was one that stood out. The only problem was that galloper, accomplished Irish stayer Al Riffa, came with a huge price tag. “He was a fairly obvious horse to target,” said Jamie Lovett, the co-director of Australian Bloodstock. “They made us pay for him, but he was certainly a horse that was easy to find.” One of Australia’s premier syndicators since it was established by... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336171/australian-bloodstocks-bid-global-group-one-glory-leads-hong-kong-vase-tilt-al-riffa?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336171/australian-bloodstocks-bid-global-group-one-glory-leads-hong-kong-vase-tilt-al-riffa?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Dec 2025 04:56:16 +0000 Owen Goulding Owen Goulding This year’s Group One Hong Kong Vase (2,400m) has a wide open feel to it, with stars from around the globe all having strong claims to the staying prize on Sunday’s Longines Hong Kong International Races. To help you get ahead, the Post has compiled videos of every runner’s last start, including the most recent performances of the top raiders. Group One Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (2,400m) – Longchamp – October 5 Sosie – 3rd Giavellotto – 4th Los Angeles – 17th WHAT A RACE! 🤩 DARYZ WINS THE... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336154/hkir-watch-last-run-every-hong-kong-vase-runner-including-giavellotto?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336154/hkir-watch-last-run-every-hong-kong-vase-runner-including-giavellotto?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Dec 2025 03:20:29 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Are you struggling to line-up the local and international form lines for Sunday’s Group One Hong Kong Mile at Sha Tin? To help you, the Post has compiled videos of every runner’s last start, including the most recent performances of the seven foreign raiders. Group One Mile Championship (1,600m) – Kyoto – November 23 Soul Rush – 6th Docklands – 9th G1 number 4️⃣ for JANTAR MANTAR! #ジャンタルマンタル He turns the G1 Mile Championship into a procession! pic.twitter.com/LuEatwIcE7 — World Horse Racing... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336150/hkir-watch-last-start-every-hong-kong-mile-runner-including-japans-embroidery?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336150/hkir-watch-last-start-every-hong-kong-mile-runner-including-japans-embroidery?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Dec 2025 03:02:36 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Sunday’s Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) looks Romantic Warrior’s to lose, but can any of his seven rivals stop the champion’s quest for an unprecedented fourth straight success in the feature? To help you, the Post has compiled videos of every runner’s last start, including the most recent performances of the five foreign raiders. Group One Takarazuka Kinen (2,200m) – Hanshin – June 15 Bellagio Opera – 2nd 【Takarazuka Kinen (G1), 2200m, Hanshin, JRA】 Winner: Meisho Tabaru Review... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336149/hkir-watch-last-run-every-hong-kong-cup-runner-headlined-romantic-warrior?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336149/hkir-watch-last-run-every-hong-kong-cup-runner-headlined-romantic-warrior?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Dec 2025 03:01:22 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Ka Ying Rising will be a red-hot favourite to make it 16 straight wins in Sunday’s Group One Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m), but who is set to figure behind the world’s best sprinter? To help you, the Post has compiled videos of every runner’s last start, including the most recent performances of the three international raiders. Group One Sprinters Stakes (1,200m) – Nakayama – September 28 Win Carnelian – 1st Satono Reve – 4th 【Sprinters Stakes (G1) , 1200m, Nakayama, JRA】 Winner: Win... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336148/hkir-watch-last-run-every-hong-kong-sprint-runner-including-ka-ying-rising?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336148/hkir-watch-last-run-every-hong-kong-sprint-runner-including-ka-ying-rising?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Dec 2025 02:58:31 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Romantic Warrior will bid to make more history this Sunday when he chases a record-extending fourth straight victory in the Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m). He would also become the first horse to win four times at the Longines Hong Kong International Races. First though, let’s relive the three spine-tingling victories that have ensured one of the greatest gallopers of all time stands on the precipice of the unfathomable. Complete domination As far as absolute brilliance and complete domination... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336139/relive-romantic-warriors-three-spine-tingling-hong-kong-cup-victories?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336139/relive-romantic-warriors-three-spine-tingling-hong-kong-cup-victories?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Dec 2025 01:02:09 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Connections of local superstars Ka Ying Rising and Romantic Warrior walked away from the Sha Tin parade ring happy after the pair drew inside gates for Sunday’s Longines Hong Kong International Races. While it was never going to matter too much which gate Romantic Warrior landed for the seven-runner Group One Hong Kong Cup, barrier two was just about perfect for the champion and should ensure him a smooth passage around the first bend from the tricky Sha Tin 2,000m start. Trainer David Hayes was... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336032/romantic-warrior-set-smooth-hong-kong-cup-passage-ka-ying-rising-draws-one-first-time?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336032/romantic-warrior-set-smooth-hong-kong-cup-passage-ka-ying-rising-draws-one-first-time?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:18:30 +0000 Stephy Zhang Stephy Zhang Horse racing fans from around the world descended on Happy Valley on Wednesday for the traditional start of the Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) week, with officials predicting an HK$35 million (US$4.5 million) boost to the economy. More than 20,000 spectators packed into the Causeway Bay venue, the Hong Kong Jockey Club said, with betting turnover for the evening exceeding HK$1.34 billion. The week-long series has attracted 1,400 overseas visitors from Australia, the United... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3335958/hong-kong-international-races-tourists-expected-pump-hk35-million-local-economy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3335958/hong-kong-international-races-tourists-expected-pump-hk35-million-local-economy?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 10 Dec 2025 15:52:44 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Christophe Lemaire has identified Embroidery as his best chance of tasting a first Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) success since his win aboard Pride in the 2006 Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m). One of the leading hopes in a jam-packed Group One Hong Kong Mile, three-year-old filly Embroidery is coming off a stunning year that featured victories in two of the three legs of the Japanese Triple Tiara – the Group One Oka Sho (1,600m) and Group One Shuka Sho (2,000m). “Embroidery is... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335875/christophe-lemaire-reveals-pick-his-three-hkir-rides-shes-true-group-one-filly?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335875/christophe-lemaire-reveals-pick-his-three-hkir-rides-shes-true-group-one-filly?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:20:00 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars The Group One Longines Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) has been hit by another withdrawal, with trainer David Eustace confirming Massive Sovereign will not run in Sunday’s HK$40 million contest after suffering a leg injury. After Japanese raider Lord Del Rey came out of the race with lameness on Tuesday, the scratching of last year’s Hong Kong Derby winner reduces the field for the city’s richest race to just seven runners. The last time the Cup was contested by such a small field was way back in 2007,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335826/hong-kong-cup-poised-smallest-field-2007-after-massive-out?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335826/hong-kong-cup-poised-smallest-field-2007-after-massive-out?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 10 Dec 2025 02:19:34 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Twenty years after his father David tasted Longines Hong Kong International Races success with Vengeance Of Rain, Luke Ferraris is dreaming of etching his name onto the honour roll with My Wish. While Vengeance Of Rain won the Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m), My Wish will tackle this weekend’s Group One Hong Kong Mile after a superb start to the Hong Kong season. “These are the races everyone wants to win and if you win one, it puts your name up there with some of the best,” said Luke... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335819/two-decades-after-father-davids-hkir-success-vengeance-rain-luke-ferraris-dreaming-his-own-glory?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335819/two-decades-after-father-davids-hkir-success-vengeance-rain-luke-ferraris-dreaming-his-own-glory?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 22:43:30 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars He’d hoped to be back in Hong Kong a little sooner but Joao Moreira is ready to make an impact when he heads to Happy Valley for the first time in over three years on Wednesday night. Denied a position on Hong Kong’s packed riding roster after hoping to return as Caspar Fownes’ stable jockey earlier this season, Moreira will ride in the Longines International Jockeys’ Championship (IJC) for the first time since 2021. Victorious in the competition in 2012, Moreira admitted he wasn’t sure if he... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335799/first-international-jockeys-championship-and-then-longer-hong-kong-stint-joao-moreira-hopefully-we?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335799/first-international-jockeys-championship-and-then-longer-hong-kong-stint-joao-moreira-hopefully-we?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:05:29 +0000 Owen Goulding Owen Goulding Docklands is “very happy” to be back in Hong Kong as he looks to cause a stir in Sunday’s Group One Hong Kong Mile for British trainer Harry Eustace. The globetrotter has raced in five different countries, including Hong Kong last year when he finished down the field in the Hong Kong Mile. This year has seen him hit some career-best form, however, including a win by the barest of margins in the Group One Queen Anne Stakes (1,600m) at Royal Ascot under Mark Zahra. Most recently, he made the trip... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335709/very-happy-docklands-ready-another-crack-hong-kong-mile?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335709/very-happy-docklands-ready-another-crack-hong-kong-mile?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:58:46 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Set to be crowned the Longines World’s Best Jockey for the third time in four years, James McDonald is keen to add a breakthrough success in the International Jockeys’ Championship (IJC) to his glittering CV at Happy Valley on Wednesday night. The Kiwi superstar will receive the World’s Best Jockey award at Friday night’s Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) gala dinner after claiming 12 of the world’s top 100 Group Ones in 2025. But first his focus is on the IJC, which has so far proven... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335702/james-mcdonald-bids-breakthrough-success-international-jockeys-championship?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335702/james-mcdonald-bids-breakthrough-success-international-jockeys-championship?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:02:47 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars The Group One Longines Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) is down to just eight runners after Japanese raider Lord Del Rey was withdrawn from the race on Tuesday. A $31 outsider for the HK$40 million contest, Lord Del Rey was found to be lame in his right foreleg and he joins Calandagan and Shanwah as withdrawals from the race. Supposed to be ridden by Australian Damian Lane, Lord Del Rey’s scratching reduces Japan’s Cup presence to two runners – Bellagio Opera and Rousham Park. Local hero Romantic Warrior... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335699/hong-kong-cup-reduced-eight-runners-after-withdrawal-japanese-raider-lord-del-rey?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335699/hong-kong-cup-reduced-eight-runners-after-withdrawal-japanese-raider-lord-del-rey?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 04:42:46 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Ricky Ludwig has never been out of Australia – not even for a holiday. But this week, the 72-year-old from Far North Queensland will venture to Hong Kong to witness first-hand if another chapter will be added to the remarkable story of his former galloper, Tomodachi Kokoroe. “I watch him on TV when he’s racing,” Ludwig said. “The horse has come a long way.” Ludwig will complete the same journey as Tomodachi Kokoroe – from the small rural town of Tolga to Sha Tin racecourse, where the David... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335673/far-north-queensland-sha-tin-incredible-journey-ricky-ludwig-and-tomodachi-kokoroe?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335673/far-north-queensland-sha-tin-incredible-journey-ricky-ludwig-and-tomodachi-kokoroe?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 00:33:03 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars He may have been a touch jaded when he left Hong Kong in 2019, but Umberto Rispoli is back in town with a spring in his step and boasting every bit of the infectious energy he’s so well known for. Frustrated by a lack of opportunity after 122 Hong Kong wins across almost eight years, Rispoli packed his bags and headed for the United States. Almost six years to the day, he returns in the midst of his “best year as a rider” after 127 wins including a superb victory aboard Journalism in the Group... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335577/umberto-rispoli-returns-hong-kong-spring-his-step-place-humbles-you?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335577/umberto-rispoli-returns-hong-kong-spring-his-step-place-humbles-you?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 08 Dec 2025 06:48:14 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney James McDonald and Hugh Bowman are confident Galaxy Patch and Helios Express are primed to produce peak performances at the Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) after competing in a star-studded trial at Sha Tin on Thursday. Set for the Group One Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m) on Sunday week, Helios Express under Bowman vied for the lead with Packing Hermod in Thursday’s dirt hit-out over 1,200m and kept on solidly to run second to that galloper. Fellow Hong Kong Sprint contender Raging... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335151/galaxy-patch-and-helios-express-track-peak-hong-kong-international-races-after-dirt-trial?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335151/galaxy-patch-and-helios-express-track-peak-hong-kong-international-races-after-dirt-trial?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 04 Dec 2025 04:36:35 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Globetrotting galloper Dubai Honour has been withdrawn from Sunday week’s Group One Hong Kong Vase (2,400m) at Sha Tin, reducing the field for the staying contest to 11. A five-time visitor to Hong Kong and runner-up to Giavellotto in last year’s Vase, the William Haggas-trained Dubai Honour was officially withdrawn on Monday after racing in the United Kingdom last Friday. The evergreen seven-year-old claimed his 10th career win with a typically tough performance in the Listed Midnite Churchill... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334771/globetrotter-dubai-honour-withdrawn-group-one-hong-kong-vase-field?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334771/globetrotter-dubai-honour-withdrawn-group-one-hong-kong-vase-field?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 01 Dec 2025 09:29:20 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Watching big-name Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) runners fall away is nothing new, however the speed at which Calandagan went from in the fields to not coming was quite something. In a turn of events that sparked memories of the time Aidan O’Brien’s Magical was in the Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) field for little more than 12 hours – but never actually coming to Hong Kong – Calandagan was listed in the Cup field by the Jockey Club on Wednesday afternoon before being ruled out... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334378/no-calandagan-leaves-hong-kong-cup-wanting-hkir-fields-still-excite?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334378/no-calandagan-leaves-hong-kong-cup-wanting-hkir-fields-still-excite?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 27 Nov 2025 10:20:33 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Twelve sprinters face the daunting task of taking on world’s best sprinter Ka Ying Rising when he chases a 16th consecutive victory in the Group One Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m). Fresh from another dominant success in last Sunday’s Group Two Jockey Club Sprint (1,200m), the David Hayes-trained superstar will bid to join Mr Stunning, Lord Kanaloa, Silent Witness and Falvelon as back-to-back winners of the HK$28 million feature. Ka Ying Rising bagged his first Group One success in the race last year,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334249/superstar-ka-ying-rising-faces-12-rivals-bid-back-back-hong-kong-sprint-wins?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334249/superstar-ka-ying-rising-faces-12-rivals-bid-back-back-hong-kong-sprint-wins?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 26 Nov 2025 10:41:32 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Two of the world’s very best could do battle in a showdown for the ages in next month’s Group One Longines Hong Kong Cup (2,000m), with the mighty Calandagan still a chance to face local hero Romantic Warrior. The catch, however, is that recently crowned European Horse of the Year Calandagan must first get through this Sunday’s Group One Japan Cup (2,400m) and is considered a slim chance of actually making it to Sha Tin. Whatever happens with Calandagan, Romantic Warrior – who returned from... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334220/calandagan-could-lead-attack-romantic-warrior-first-he-must-make-it-through-japan-cup?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334220/calandagan-could-lead-attack-romantic-warrior-first-he-must-make-it-through-japan-cup?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:59:58 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Voyage Bubble will defend his Group One Hong Kong Mile crown in a capacity field that also features Japan’s Soul Rush and Embroidery, Aidan O’Brien’s The Lion In Winter and French colt Beauvatier. Trainer Ricky Yiu Poon-fai and Voyage Bubble’s owners opted to drop the Triple Crown hero back to a mile rather than tackle the Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) after he ran second to Romantic Warrior in last Sunday’s Group Two Jockey Club Cup (2,000m). Zac Purton is expected to again take the ride... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334218/voyage-bubble-confirmed-defend-hong-kong-mile-crown-against-five-international-raiders?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334218/voyage-bubble-confirmed-defend-hong-kong-mile-crown-against-five-international-raiders?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:50:59 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Superstars Joao Moreira and Christophe Lemaire will compete in December’s Longines International Jockeys’ Championship (IJC) for the first time in years, while the injured Ryan Moore remains a chance to feature for the 17th straight season as he recovers from a leg injury. Reigning IJC champion Mickael Barzalona, Kiwi gun James McDonald, William Buick, Hollie Doyle, Rachel King and Hong Kong fan favourite Umberto Rispoli were also among the newly configured line-up confirmed by the Jockey Club... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331597/joao-moreira-and-christophe-lemaire-return-international-jockeys-championship-line-while-injured?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331597/joao-moreira-and-christophe-lemaire-return-international-jockeys-championship-line-while-injured?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 05 Nov 2025 06:53:58 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Hong Kong superstar Romantic Warrior could lock horns with April’s Group One QE II Cup (2,000m) victor Tastiera in the city’s richest race, the HK$40 million Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m). The Jockey Club confirmed on Thursday that Tastiera is one of 50 Japanese entries for December 14’s Longines Hong Kong International Races, with the likes of Satono Reve, Lugal, Win Carnelian, Soul Rush, Jantar Mantar, Embroidery, Croix Du Nord and Stellenbosch also in the mix from the Land of the Rising... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3330937/hong-kong-international-races-entries-packed-big-name-internationals?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3330937/hong-kong-international-races-entries-packed-big-name-internationals?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:41:25 +0000 Gavin Yeung Gavin Yeung Equestrian fever will descend on Hong Kong next week, when the debut Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show rides into town. Scheduled for February 14 to 16, it follows in the hoofsteps of the Longines Masters of Hong Kong event, last held in 2019, and marks the return of world-class showjumping to AsiaWorld-Expo after a six-year absence. Inspired by the London International Horse Show, which launched in 1907, this elite event aims to establish itself as an annual fixture in Hong Kong’s... https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3297737/longines-hong-kong-international-horse-show-brings-show-jumping-back-city?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/postmag/culture/article/3297737/longines-hong-kong-international-horse-show-brings-show-jumping-back-city?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 07 Feb 2025 10:15:08 +0000 Jockey Club chief executive Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges has hailed “one of the best, if not the best” Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) after almost 70,000 people descended on Sha Tin for the city’s biggest race day. Among the 69,916 on course were roughly 10,000 tourists – including a record 6,511 from the mainland, up 40 per cent on last year – and new Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui, who stepped into the role just days ago after the sacking of Kevin... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289899/jockey-club-chief-hails-one-best-if-not-best-hong-kong-international-races-tourists-flock-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289899/jockey-club-chief-hails-one-best-if-not-best-hong-kong-international-races-tourists-flock-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Dec 2024 14:30:38 +0000 Voyage Bubble looks to have Hong Kong’s mile division at his mercy after a scintillating victory on the city’s biggest race day. Sent off a $2.6 favourite for the Group One Longines Hong Kong Mile, Voyage Bubble was always in control after jumping well and eventually settling outside leader Beauty Eternal in a race run with plenty of early speed. After striding to the lead at the 300m, Voyage Bubble powered home a length and a quarter clear of Japanese raider Soul Rush to stop the clock over... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289893/fair-dinkum-voyage-bubble-hong-kongs-new-mile-king-after-powerful-victory?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289893/fair-dinkum-voyage-bubble-hong-kongs-new-mile-king-after-powerful-victory?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Dec 2024 12:38:22 +0000 James McDonald likened booting home Romantic Warrior to “lining up for the winning kick for the All Blacks” as the champion galloper soared to a record-breaking third consecutive Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) at Sha Tin on Sunday. Danny Shum Chap-shing’s superstar repelled Japanese duo Liberty Island and Tastiera to become the first horse to win three Hong Kong Cups, while also breaking Golden Sixty’s world record HK$167.1 million in prize money, with his total earnings surging to a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289892/j-mac-ecstatic-romantic-warrior-romps-record-breaking-third-hong-kong-cup?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289892/j-mac-ecstatic-romantic-warrior-romps-record-breaking-third-hong-kong-cup?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Dec 2024 11:51:47 +0000 Francis Lui Kin-wai dominated the Longines Hong Kong International Races undercard at Sha Tin on Sunday, with last season’s champion trainer scooping the first three races and the finale on his way to a four-timer. Lui got off to a perfect start at Sha Tin’s marquee meeting thanks to the wins of Happy Park, Packing Angel and Divano before Classic Mile hope Packing Hermod sealed the handler’s 676-1 four-timer at the end of the afternoon. “I’m very happy, it’s been very smooth,” Lui said.... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289890/francis-lui-runs-rampant-sha-tin-four-timer-california-lands-monster-gamble?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289890/francis-lui-runs-rampant-sha-tin-four-timer-california-lands-monster-gamble?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Dec 2024 11:34:38 +0000 It wasn’t quite the electrifying performance many expected, but it was a case of job done for boom sprinter Ka Ying Rising with a workmanlike victory in Sunday’s Group One Longines Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m). By saluting as the equal shortest-priced favourite in Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) history – Romantic Warrior matched him at $1.1 three races later – the emerging star widely rated the world’s best sprinter continued his phenomenal rise with an eighth straight win on his first start... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289886/ka-ying-rising-bags-first-group-one-workmanlike-hong-kong-sprint-win?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289886/ka-ying-rising-bags-first-group-one-workmanlike-hong-kong-sprint-win?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Dec 2024 10:58:54 +0000 It takes a lot to get Sir Alex Ferguson’s blood pumping these days, but its difficult to believe there will not be a little quickening of the pulse at Sha Tin on Sunday. The former Manchester United manager’s globetrotting star Spirit Dancer goes in the HK$40 million Longines Hong Kong Cup at 4.40pm, and while a 20-1 outsider, the seven-year-old comes into the race on the back of a successful sojourn in the Middle East, which included winning the Bahrain International Trophy for a record second... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289847/alex-ferguson-mellowing-age-longines-hong-kong-cup-win-would-still-quicken-pulse?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289847/alex-ferguson-mellowing-age-longines-hong-kong-cup-win-would-still-quicken-pulse?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Dec 2024 02:30:12 +0000 It’s not often a galloper yet to salute at the top level overshadows an eight-time Group One winner with the second-most prize money ever. But that’s what has happened in the build-up to Sunday’s Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR), with Ka Ying Rising the talk of the town despite the fact Romantic Warrior stands on the cusp of history. There’s not much that hasn’t been said about Ka Ying Rising this week, with trainer David Hayes suggesting “he could be the horse of a lifetime” and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289828/emerging-ka-ying-rising-overshadows-champion-romantic-warrior-build-hong-kong-racings-biggest-day?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289828/emerging-ka-ying-rising-overshadows-champion-romantic-warrior-build-hong-kong-racings-biggest-day?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 07 Dec 2024 11:47:47 +0000 Pierre Ng Pang-chi hopes Galaxy Patch can take his place at the top table when his five-year-old lines up in Sunday’s Group One Longines Hong Kong Mile. A six-time winner from 12 starts last term, Galaxy Patch continued his ascendancy with an authoritative win on seasonal reappearance in October’s Group Two Sha Tin Trophy (1,600m). But he failed to oblige as the $1.7 favourite in the Group Two Jockey Club Mile, with the son of Wandjina only managing third after a wide trip. He will bid to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289818/pierre-ng-backs-patch-bubble-rematch-hes-going-win-group-one?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289818/pierre-ng-backs-patch-bubble-rematch-hes-going-win-group-one?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 07 Dec 2024 09:06:22 +0000 Without A Fight headlines Australia’s return to the Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) on Sunday, with trainer Sam Freedman confident the Group One Melbourne Cup (3,200m) hero can cap his return from injury with victory in the Group One Hong Kong Vase (2,400m). Laws Of Indices was the last Australian-trained runner at Sha Tin’s showpiece meeting in 2022 as a quarantine stand-off, booming prize money in Australia and a long Melbourne spring carnival have led to the nation’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289808/without-fight-headlines-australias-return-hong-kong-international-races?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289808/without-fight-headlines-australias-return-hong-kong-international-races?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 07 Dec 2024 05:49:56 +0000 James McDonald is convinced Romantic Warrior is better placed than last year to repel another star-studded group of overseas challengers in his bid for a historic third Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) victory on Sunday. Twelve months ago, Danny Shum Chap-shing’s superstar overcame a trip back from his Group One Cox Plate (2,040m) success in Australia and quarantine stint to narrowly defend his crown in Hong Kong’s richest race. But with a more uninterrupted preparation remaining in his home... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289804/james-mcdonald-backs-romantic-warrior-repel-overseas-raiders-hong-kong-cup?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289804/james-mcdonald-backs-romantic-warrior-repel-overseas-raiders-hong-kong-cup?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 07 Dec 2024 04:29:10 +0000 Sha Tin will be electric during Sunday’s Group One Longines Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m) and the eyes of world racing will be tracking hot favourite Ka Ying Rising’s every move, but few will be watching as intently as those gathered at Windsor Park Stud’s Volksraad Bar in Cambridge, New Zealand. Front and centre will be former Hong Kong rugby captain Nick Hewson, who is part of the Windsor Park Stud team getting a huge buzz out of the remarkable rise of the son of their stallion, Shamexpress. “It’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289705/former-hong-kong-rugby-captain-nick-hewsons-ka-ying-rising-connection?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289705/former-hong-kong-rugby-captain-nick-hewsons-ka-ying-rising-connection?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Dec 2024 09:40:47 +0000 Yasutoshi Ikee has flagged a change of tactics for Soul Rush in the Group One Longines Hong Kong Mile, but the Japanese trainer was keeping his cards close to his chest ahead of Sunday’s feature at Sha Tin. Taken back to near last from barrier 11 in last year’s Mile, Soul Rush ran on powerfully in the straight under Joao Moreira to finish fourth behind Hong Kong champion Golden Sixty. “I think last year, strategy-wise it didn’t work well, so hopefully this year our strategy will work better,”... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289682/tactical-change-cards-japans-soul-rush-hong-kong-mile?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289682/tactical-change-cards-japans-soul-rush-hong-kong-mile?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Dec 2024 08:42:46 +0000 Yann Lerner hopes his experience in the saddle at Sha Tin two decades ago can give him a valuable edge when he saddles his first runner at the Hong Kong International Races on Sunday. Yann, who trains with his father Carlos, returned two winners during his short stint as Ricky Yiu Poon-fai’s retained rider in Hong Kong in 2004. He returns to the city as a 39-year-old handler with elite-level winner Calif, who will bid to dethrone Romantic Warrior in the Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m). “It was... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289667/yann-lerners-dream-realised-he-returns-sha-tin-two-decades-riding-stint?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289667/yann-lerners-dream-realised-he-returns-sha-tin-two-decades-riding-stint?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Dec 2024 08:03:57 +0000 Aidan O’Brien is bullish a switch in Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) targets with Luxembourg will pave the way for a successful end to the stallion’s racing career at Sha Tin on Sunday. Returning to Hong Kong’s biggest meeting with a team of four runners, champion Irish trainer O’Brien felt Luxembourg was in the wrong race 12 months ago despite only falling just short of upsetting superstar Romantic Warrior. The son of Camelot loomed as the winner of the Group One Hong Kong Cup... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289643/aidan-obrien-holds-high-hopes-fitting-farewell-luxembourg-hong-kong-vase?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289643/aidan-obrien-holds-high-hopes-fitting-farewell-luxembourg-hong-kong-vase?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Dec 2024 06:17:24 +0000 Competitiveness and success are deeply rooted in the Eustace family’s DNA and there is no doubt siblings Harry and David will be quietly trying to secure bragging rights at Sunday’s Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR). While their father James, who enjoyed winners galore during a 30-year training career in England, and mother Gay watch on from the stands, the siblings will follow in the footsteps of family by saddling runners at Sha Tin’s marquee meeting. Harry, 36, and David, 32,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289615/eustace-family-bragging-rights-grabs-hong-kong-international-races-its-very-exciting-us?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289615/eustace-family-bragging-rights-grabs-hong-kong-international-races-its-very-exciting-us?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Dec 2024 04:30:32 +0000 When fan favourite Joao Moreira rides a Japanese horse in the Group One Longines Hong Kong Vase (2,400m), it pays to take notice. From seven attempts aboard gallopers from the Land of the Rising Sun in the longest of the Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) features, Moreira has produced victories aboard Satono Crown (2016) and Glory Vase (2019 and 2021) to go with placings atop Tosen Basil, Lys Gracieux and Glory Vase. A flat stake to win on his eight rides would have delivered a 335 per cent... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289545/joao-moreira-out-continue-hong-kong-vase-love-affair-while-james-mcdonald-sets-sights-zac-purton?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289545/joao-moreira-out-continue-hong-kong-vase-love-affair-while-james-mcdonald-sets-sights-zac-purton?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 05 Dec 2024 10:37:53 +0000 It’s been 12 years since a British raider left the Hong Kong International Races with a winner’s trophy, but connections of this year’s seven-strong team are hopeful they can mount a serious challenge in Sunday’s feature races. Breeders’ Cup winner Starlust leads the squad in the Group One Longines Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m), while Spirit Dancer, who carries the colours of legendary former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, and The Foxes take on Romantic Warrior in the Group One Hong... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289510/british-battalion-poised-hong-kong-international-races-raid-way-it-sets-here-ideal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3289510/british-battalion-poised-hong-kong-international-races-raid-way-it-sets-here-ideal?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 05 Dec 2024 08:31:50 +0000