Strauss

Galloped with Joao Moreira in the saddle on the turf track, clocking 1m 22.0s (32.0, 27.4, 22.6) over 1200m.

Trainer Ryo Takei said: “He’s in excellent condition. Joao even said, ‘Not just good, he’s at his best.’ We’ve been using a strong bit to control him and Joao is handling him very well.

“Abu Dhabi was not a main target for him. He was in good condition there, but probably not quite at 100%. This time, however, this race has been the main target, and he’s come here in very good shape.

“In his previous overseas trips, the fields were small, but here in Hong Kong there are plenty of Japanese runners, which has helped him relax and settle into his routine. We had already done the necessary work back in Japan, so I didn’t feel we needed to push him too much here. I told Joao to let him run naturally and only ask him if needed.

“He won his debut on a heavy track, so I don’t think the ground will be an issue this time either. Joao also mentioned that he’s adapting well to the surface here.

“With top-class competition, including Japan’s mile champion Jantar Mantar, it would be a fantastic result if we could win this race.

“(Regarding the draw) I’m leaving that to Joao, so I’m not too concerned. He was a bit on edge when he first arrived, but he’s gradually settled in and is adapting well.”