The HK$12 million Hong Kong Classic Cup is the second leg of the prestigious Four-Year-Old Classic Series, one of three once-in-a-lifetime races for Hong Kong’s aspiring champions. The race follows the Hong Kong Classic Mile and is an important bridge to the BMW Hong Kong Derby. It gives the first three placed horses priority to start in the Derby a month later.

Run over 1800m, the Hong Kong Classic Cup adds a stamina layer to the Classic Mile’s speedier test. The race prepares the four-year-old protagonists to stretch out to 2000m for the blue riband BMW Hong Kong Derby. Last year, the trophy was bagged by front runner California Spangle who was ridden by Zac Purton. It also gave trainer Tony Cruz the second time champion title in this race.