Japanese, Irish raiders loom as Romantic Warrior’s main threats in Dubai

By Leo Schlink in Dubai

04/04/2025

Jockey Christophe Lemaire concedes Japan’s finest middle-distance horses face a monumental challenge to topple Romantic Warrior in the G1 Dubai Turf (1800m) at Meydan on Saturday night (5 April) but the Frenchman is not ruling out an upset defeat of Hong Kong’s global champion.

Bidding for a record 11th Group 1 win by a Hong Kong horse and his fourth Group 1 triumph in an overseas jurisdiction, Romantic Warrior faces a formidable squad of Japanese contenders led by Liberty Island, Soul Rush, Brede Weg and Meisho Tabaru as well as last year’s winner Facteur Cheval and fellow G1 winner Nations Pride.

Lemaire will partner G1 Queen Elizabeth II Cup (2000m) winner Brede Weg and believes the lightly-raced mare can pose a serious threat to Romantic Warrior.

“I saw her work yesterday and she is a very talented filly,” Lemaire said. “I think the mile was a bit short for her (last start), so the extra 200 metres will suit her. “She has got a very good turn of foot and this will be her second run of the year. She should perform very well – even in such a competitive field, she has a very good chance in my opinion.”

William Buick is similarly effusive about four-time Group 1 winner Nations Pride.

“He’s had a nice break since his last run,” Buick said of Charlie Appleby’s charge. “I think we can expect a little bit of improvement in him.

“We’ve got Romantic Warrior in the race and he’s going to be a tough opponent, as well as others. Nations Pride always does his best. He’s uncomplicated and he’s got genuine Group 1 form. He doesn’t quite get the credit he deserves but he’s taking on one of the world’s best.”

Buick will also team with Believing, who will contest the G1 Al Quoz Sprint (1200m) against Hong Kong’s Howdeepisyourlove.

Trained by George Boughey, Believing was recently purchased by global racing giant Coolmore after returning to form following her ninth behind Invincible Sage in the 2024 G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m) last April.

“I spoke to George about her and he seems very happy with her,” Buick said. “She’s been knocking on the door in Group 1s now and she probably deserves win one. I think the fast ground and the flat six furlongs will really suit her.

“Sprinters at her age develop and improve physically and she looks like she’s filled out.”

Howdeepisyourlove will attempt to present Hong Kong with a fourth win in the Al Quoz after the successes of Joy And Fun (2010), Amber Sky (2014) and California Spangle (2024).

Frankie Lor is pleased with Sword Point’s condition ahead of the gelding’s tilt at the G2 Godolphin Mile (1600m, dirt).

“He had the trial before flying over and it was a great trial,” Lor said. “The head lad of the stable reported to me he has eaten up and acclimatised well. It’s a great sign that he hasn’t turned a hair since arriving even though this is his first time travelling to race overseas.

“Some horses might be scared and some horses don’t eat up well but he’s doing well in every aspect.

“With a good gate (barrier two), we should be able to ride him close to the speed. We would want to come out of the gate fast and let’s see if there are any other horses eyeing for the lead. If there isn’t, we would be happy to lead, depending on the circumstances of the track.

“If he wins, it would be the best result. I think for every trainer sending a horse to race overseas, they would want to win, doing Hong Kong proud.”

All three Hong Kong entrants will be ridden by James McDonald.

With hot conditions forecast on Saturday, the Dubai World Cup meeting will start an hour later with Sword Point to run at 9.45pm (Hong Kong Time), Howdeepisyourlove at 10.20pm (HKT) and Romantic Warrior at 12.15am (Sunday, 6 April HKT).

Romantic Warrior is bidding for a Hong Kong record 11th Group 1 win.

William Buick rides Nations Pride for Charlie Appleby.

Howdeepisyourlove works at Meydan.

Frankie Lor is searching for a first overseas win with Sword Point.

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

Romantic Warrior Returns to Grass for Dubai Turf

Information provided by Blood Horse, Frank Angst

02/04/2025

After delivering a memorable runner-up performance in his first try on dirt, 10-time grade/group 1 winner Romantic Warrior will return to grass racing when he starts in the $5 million Dubai Turf (G1T) April 5 at Meydan Racecourse.

The Dubai Turf is one of four grass races planned for Saturday's Dubai World Cup (G1) card, and serves as an automatic qualifier to the Nov. 1 Breeders' Cup Mile (G1T) through the Breeders' Cup Challenge Series.

In his previous start owner Peter Lau Pak Fai and trainer Danny Shum asked Romantic Warrior to try something new by entering him in the $20 million Saudi Cup (G1). The 2024 Hong Kong Horse of the Year proved up to the task on dirt, battling Forever Young through the stretch before being edged by that one at the wire of the lucrative test Feb. 22.

The one-two finishers from the Saudi Cup will be in action Saturday at Meydan but Forever Young will go off as the likely favorite in the featured race while Romantic Warrior returns to turf in the 1,800-meter (about 1 1/8-mile) Dubai Turf where he will be favored.

"He's happy and he's in good form," Shum said at Meydan, noting that while Romantic Warrior lost "to the best dirt horse in the world," he gave his connections and fans a memorable moment. "I'm really looking forward to Saturday. The Dubai fans really love Romantic Warrior and (we're thankful) for their support."

This will be Romantic Warrior's first start on the Dubai World Cup card but he has raced on the course. In January he posted a 4 1/4-length win in the Jebel Hatta (G1T).

Last year's Dubai Turf winner, Facteur Cheval, will look to knock off Romantic Warrior and repeat for the North American-based ownership of Team Valor International and Gary Barber. Facteur Cheval, who also gave the Saudi Cup a try, finishing seventh, has earned more than $4.8 million in four seasons of racing.

Dubai Turf

• Two-time Breeders' Cup Turf winner Rebel's Romance will attempt to add to his more than $12.2 million in career earnings when he starts in the $6 million Dubai Sheema Classic (G1T) where he will aim to defend his two-length victory from 2024.
• A Godolphin homebred, Rebel's Romance enters Saturday's 2,410-meter (about 1 1/2-mile) test off three straight stakes wins—contested on three different continents. That stretch that includes his neck victory in last year's Breeders' Cup Turf at Del Mar. That win secured the son of Dubawi champion turf male honors.

A win in the Sheema Classic will earn the winner an automatic berth to the Breeders' Cup Turf as part of the Breeders' Cup Challenge Series.

Dubai Sheema Classic

• In the $1.5 million Al Quoz Sprint (G1T) contested at a straight 1,200 meters (about six furlongs), 2024 Lockinge Stakes (G1) winner Audience will try to secure the fourth group stakes win of his career.

The Cheveley Park homebred will be making his first start outside of England for trainers John and Thady Gosden.

The field also includes South African-bred, United States-trained Isivunguvungu. Trained by Graham Motion Isivunguvungu captured last year's Da Hoss Stakes at Colonial Downs after winning a pair of group 1 races in 2023 in his native country to earn champion sprinter honors there. 

The Dubai Racing Club noted that a win would set off celebrations around the world because, "The tongue-twistingly named sprinter (it means storm in isiXhosa) was bred (Narrow Creek Stud) and is owned (Hollywood Racing) in South Africa, trained by a U.S.-based Brit, and will be ridden by a French-based Belgian (Christophe Soumillon)."

Al Quoz Sprint

• Marathoners will take the spotlight in the 3,200-meter (about two-mile) Dubai Gold Cup (G2T), where Godolphin homebred Trawlerman will try to improve on his third-place finish from a year ago in the $1 million race.

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

John Size aims to land first overseas feature with Howdeepisyourlove

By Leo Schlink

03/04/2025

Revered Hong Kong trainer John Size will attempt to fill a rare gap in a bulging career portfolio when the master horseman saddles Howdeepisyourlove in the G1 Al Quoz Sprint (1200m) at Meydan on Saturday night (5 April).

With an unmatched 12 Hong Kong trainers’ championships in his keeping, Size continues to search for his first overseas success since being based at Sha Tin, having previously saddled 10 starters in Japan and three in the United Arab Emirates.

The wily Australian’s best result came with Armada’s second placing in the 2008 G1 Yasuda Kinen (1600m) in Tokyo and Size is hopeful Howdeepisyourlove’s recent Group 1 form behind star sprinter Ka Ying Rising will lead to breakthrough success in the Al Quoz after drawing barrier nine in a field of 11.

“It (the barrier) seems okay, he should be able to get a clear run from there. He's not involved in the inside, so the horse gets back in the field a little bit and hopefully he's a late finisher and that should probably suit him,” Size said.

“The horse is in pretty good shape and he's travelled well. He looks good and he's done his work properly. He continues to do well, so I think the race is coming up at the right time and it's a matter of circumstances on the day.

“He seems very well, he’s been in pretty good order since he’s been in Dubai. He’s enjoying the fresh, crispy mornings and the hot afternoons. He seems to be adapting quite well. He’s eating his food and doing his work and he seems quite relaxed in this environment.

“He tends to wait for the last run, he likes to be ridden quietly early and get into his rhythm and get into his gear and then he normally finishes strongly. So, he’s only got a short dash but if he’s timed, he might be in front at the line.”

“I would love to win a race overseas. We just keep trying.”

Howdeepisyourlove has finished third at his past two starts to Ka Ying Rising – in the G1 Centenary Sprint Cup (1200m) on 19 January and the G1 Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (1400m) on 23 February – and Size hopes the Deep Field gelding can produce a stable breakthrough in the Al Quoz Sprint under James McDonald.

Size previously saddled Amazing Kids, who finished sixth to The Right Man in the Al Quoz Sprint in 2017 and Sight Success, who was fourth to Danyah in 2023 and fifth last year to California Spangle, who broke the Meydan 1200m track record, clocking 1m 07.50s, for Tony Cruz and Brenton Avdulla.

Romantic Warrior strode two laps of Meydan’s dirt course with Romantic Charm this morning (Thursday, 3 April) as he prepares to face last year’s winner Facteur Cheval in the G1 Dubai Turf (1800m) along with fellow Group 1 winners Nations Pride, Soul Rush, Brede Weg and Liberty Island.

Chasing his 19th win at his 25th start, Romantic Warrior will bid for a record Hong Kong 11th Group 1 victory from barrier nine of 11 starters under McDonald. The Hong Kong International Sale graduate is seeking his second win in Dubai after he broke Meydan’s track record with a gallop of 1m 45.10s in the G1 Jebel Hatta (1800m) on 24 January.

Freshened since narrow defeat to Forever Young in the G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt) in Riyadh on 22 February, Romantic Warrior will attempt to add to world record prizemoney of HK$206.9 million.

Frankie Lor’s Sword Point is the third of Hong Kong’s Dubai World Cup night entrants and will start from barrier 2 in the G2 Godolphin Mile (1600m, dirt). He will also be ridden by McDonald.

With hot conditions forecast on Saturday, the Dubai World Cup meeting will start an hour later with Sword Point to run at 9.45pm (Hong Kong Time), Howdeepisyourlove at 10.20pm (HKT) and Romantic Warrior at 12.15am (Sunday, 6 April HKT).

John Size oversees Howdeepisyourlove’s work at Meydan Racecourse.

Howdeepisyourlove faces 10 rivals in the G1 Al Quoz Sprint (1200m).

Romantic Warrior cruises around Meydan this morning (3 April).

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

Boughey backing well-travelled Believing in Al Quoz Sprint

Information provided by Racing & Sports

03/04/2025

George Boughey is looking forward to seeing how his star filly Believing gets on when she once again sets foot on international soil for the Al Quoz Sprint at Meydan on Saturday.

George Boughey’s filly had her passport out on several occasions last season, running in Hong Kong, Ireland, and France and travelling to America.

The daughter of Mehmas enjoyed multiple placings at the top level alongside Listed and Group 2 success last season, but after changing hands for 3,000,000gns at Tattersalls last December, her new connections, featuring Coolmore and Resolute Racing, will be hoping Group 1 victory lies ahead.

"Believing shipped over to Dubai as well as we could have possibly imagined," said Boughey.

"She’s a filly who has obviously been quite busy and had her passport out the last couple of years so travelling has come as second nature to her.”

Believing, who was withdrawn at the starting stalls ahead of her intended run in the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint at Del Mar in November, will be making her first start since finishing third in the Prix de l’Abbaye at Longchamp last October.

However, having run nine times last season and with a “faultless preparation” under her belt, Boughey couldn’t be happier with her heading into Saturday’s Group 1 assignment.

He said: "It’s been the plan for a long time, and she’s had a faultless preparation through the spring.

She landed on Saturday night, has been out on the track and Kristan Archer and Jordan McMurray, my guys out on the ground, are delighted with her.

"In the videos I’ve seen, she looks super. She won’t do a huge amount this week; she was rock hard fit on her way out there, so she’ll just tip away, and we’ll look forward to seeing how she gets on Saturday evening."

Believing will break from stall one under William Buick when she takes on ten rivals in the Al Quoz Sprint at Meydan, with market leader West Acre, who is trained by George Scott just down the road from Believing in Newmarket, starting on the opposite side of the track in gate eleven.

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

Interview with ROMANTIC WARRIOR Trainer Danny Shum

03/04/2025

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

Interview with HOWDEEPISYOURLOVE Trainer John Size

03/04/2025

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

Interview with SWORD POINT Trainer Frankie Lor

03/04/2025

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

Interview with James McDonald

03/04/2025

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

James McDonald confident Romantic Warrior, Howdeepisyourlove can press for Group 1 success

By Leo Schlink in Dubai

02/04/2025

James McDonald believes Romantic Warrior and Howdeepisyourlove are well positioned to snare Group 1 glory at Meydan on Saturday (5 April) after the Hong Kong pair drew neutral gates at the official barrier draw today (Wednesday, 2 April).

Acclaimed as the LONGINES World’s Best Jockey last year, McDonald will bid to add to his career haul of 114 Group 1 victories after Romantic Warrior drew barrier nine in the G1 Dubai Turf (1800m) and Howdeepisyourlove also drew gate nine in the G1 Al Quoz Sprint (1200m).

McDonald will also ride Sword Point, who will jump from gate two in the G2 Godolphin Mile (1600m, dirt).

The New Zealander said Romantic Warrior had held his form since his narrow defeat in the G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt) in February – a performance McDonald said was among the best of the globetrotting champion’s career.

“He gave his all. I almost believe it’s almost one of the best performances he’s put on a race track. It’s phenomenal to be almost 10 lengths back to third. To gap the field like that was remarkable and I was so proud of the horse and proud of how Danny has prepped him up and how Danny’s team has looked after him,” McDonald said.

“We’re really looking forward to the challenge again. Obviously, he’s been here and competed at a high level before and we’re very much looking forward to the challenge. This race is a very strong race than what he competed in in January here but he’s very good.

“It seems like he’s taken no side effects from Saudi, he’s bounced out of it well – all guns blazing really.

“He seems to be very happy, healthy and he’s working well. He’s a horse that thrives on high pressure and obviously the tougher the races, the better he goes as we’ve found out over the years.

“So, he’ll be up for the challenge again. Obviously, it’s a very competitive race with some very strong contenders and he’ll have to be at his brilliant best but from my point of view, I don’t think he’s taken a backward step from Saudi so hopefully he runs well.”

Returning to Dubai for the first time to race since he smashed the track record in winning the G1 Jebel Hatta (1800m) in January, Romantic Warrior will face 10 rivals this weekend, including last year’s Dubai Turf winner Facteur Cheval, who jumps from gate 11.

“I think if he (Romantic Warrior) runs up to the Jebel Hatta run, he’ll be very hard to beat,” McDonald said. “We’re confident he likes the surface, he’s got round this track beautifully which he normally does anyway. With the 1800m, it’s a long run down the (back) straight. He certainly enjoys the firm surface we’re likely to get on the hot day and he copes with everything pretty well. He’s a well-seasoned horse.”

Reflecting on Romantic Warrior’s barrier draw, Shum said: “Gate nine is not a problem. He’s flexible. If he gets a fast pace, (McDonald) can give him a chance to settle. If the race is slow, he can sit close.”

Assessing Howdeepisyourlove’s chances, McDonald said: “I’m really looking forward to his race. He’s a really good horse who’s really consistent, so I think that’s a really good thing when travelling.

“He doesn’t really run a bad one and he’s competed against the best sprinter in the world at the moment in Ka Ying Rising - obviously, a fair way back behind him, but he’s always second or third duelling it out with Helios Express.

“I think that form line is as good as any sprinting form line around. You could safely say if Ka Ying Rising was in this field, he’d be a very short-priced favourite and probably winning by four or five lengths, so we’re in the ballpark and I think he’s a terrific hope.”

McDonald starred on his Dubai debut in January with a treble crowned by Romantic Warrior’s record-breaking Jebel Hatta romp.

With hot conditions forecast on Saturday, the Dubai World Cup meeting will start an hour later with Sword Point to run at 9.45pm (Hong Kong Time), Howdeepisyourlove at 10.20pm (HKT) and Romantic Warrior at 12.15am (Sunday, 6 April HKT).

James McDonald accompanying Romantic Warrior at trackwork.

Romantic Warrior wins the G1 Jebel Hatta (1800m) at Meydan in January.

Howdeepisyourlove drew barrier nine in the G1 Al Quoz Sprint.

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

Romantic Warrior leads Howdeepisyourlove, Sword Point in search of Dubai glory at Meydan

02/04/2025

Hong Kong racing phenomenon Romantic Warrior faces ten rivals in Saturday’s (5 April) G1 Dubai Turf (1800m) and everything looks right for another mighty exhibition over the same course and distance which saw him shatter the track record in January’s G1 Jebel Hatta (1800m).

But his jockey James McDonald sees this as a strong field, quipping at trackwork this week: “I wish it was a bit weaker!”. Like trainer Danny Shum, he envisages most danger coming from the four-strong Japanese contingent.

Of those, McDonald, who has ridden Romantic Warrior to nine of his ten Group 1 wins, picks out Yuga Kawada’s mount and Japanese Triple Tiara winner Liberty Island: “I believe she has had a better lead-up here than prior to her run at Sha Tin in December,” said the New Zealand-born rider referring to Liberty Island’s preparation before her late-closing one and a half lengths second to Romantic Warrior in the 2024 HK$40 million G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (2000m).

Of Romantic Warrior’s own Meydan preparation, McDonald said: “He seems more relaxed than he was in Saudi and the guys who live and breathe him every day say that he hasn’t missed a beat. They are very happy with him.”

It was in February’s G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt) that the world’s most valuable horse race also provided one of the most unforgettable contests when Romantic Warrior – having his first start on dirt – was grabbed in the shadows of the post by Forever Young.

And in the spectacular finale to Saturday’s Meydan card, Yoshito Yahagi-trained Ryusei Sakai-ridden four-year-old Forever Young has a first-class chance of following up that Saudi Cup victory in the 11-runner G1 Dubai World Cup (2000m, dirt).

Like Romantic Warrior, he is unbeaten at Meydan having dominated the closing stages of the G2 UAE Derby (1900m, dirt) at this meeting last year.

Also on this meeting last year, Tony Cruz-trained California Spangle led almost throughout to win the G1 Al Quoz Sprint (1200m), and John Size-trained Howdeepisyourlove, to be ridden by McDonald, will be one of the favourites to gain a follow-up victory in this Group 1 charge up the Meydan straight.

The six-time winner will need to overcome a clutch of highly accomplished UK-trained speedsters including Believing, paired with William Buick, who came close to winning a European Group 1 on each of her last three 2024 starts, and West Acre, who has thrived since arriving in Dubai, showcasing explosive acceleration to win a Meydan Group 2 in January – lowering the track record – and Group 3 here last month. Those were both at 1000m but jockey Callum Shepherd has gone on record saying he thinks the progressive George Scott-trained gelding, the only three-year-old in the race, could be even better over the 1200m of the Al Quoz Sprint.

Frankie Lor-trained Sword Point, also pairing with McDonald, encounters a fiercely competitive and cosmopolitan field for the G2 Godolphin Mile (1600m, dirt). One of the favourites is expected to be California-based and Frankie Dettori-ridden Raging Torrent, a decisive winner of Santa Anita’s G1 Malibu Stakes (1400m, dirt) last start.

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

West Acre out to build on Carnival form in Al Quoz

Information provided by Racing & Sports

25/03/2025

Trainer George Scott is no stranger to success in the Middle East and continued his strong run of international form during the Dubai Racing Carnival with star sprinter West Acre, who is being aimed at the Group 1 Al Quoz Sprint on World Cup night.

The Newmarket-based handler enjoyed his best season training to date in 2024, ending the year with a career-high of forty-two domestic victories and earnings of £897,099 – a total that he could easily exceed in 2025 with the help of emerging talent West Acre.

A minor setback kept West Acre off the track until late in his two-year-old campaign, emerging in September 2024 with an eye-catching Newcastle success, a testament to the patience of connections.

“We thought he was a smart prospect early on,” said Scott.

“The day before he was due to run for the first time, he pulled up after a routine canter and he had a minor stress injury. He made a fully recovery and interestingly, we gathered a lot of data about him and when he came back into faster work, he hadn’t lost any of his mobility – his stride length and cadence was exactly the same.”

Although West Acre suffered a defeat on his second outing over six furlongs at Chelmsford, he soon rounded off the season with another victory at Southwell. Two victories from three outings on the all-weather immediately marked him as a possible candidate for the Dubai Racing Carnival, and the gelding formed part of a small but select international team for Scott in the early part of 2025.

A head second in the six-furlong Al Wasl Stakes in early January inspired a return to five furlongs on his subsequent two outings, with the gelding powering clear under jockey Callum Shepherd in both the Group 2 Blue Point Sprint and the Group 3 Nad Al Sheba Sprint.

The Al Quoz Sprint marks a return to six furlongs; a trip that has seen West Acre’s only two career defeats.

“I know he's been beaten twice over six furlongs now, but I think that's really more due to circumstances than anything. His race record would suggest he’s better over five furlongs, but he’s been a very strong finisher. He was very strong over the line in Meydan on both occasions and Callum Shepherd is adamant that the six furlongs will be no issue whatsoever.

“I'm looking forward to seeing how it how it turns out.”

The experience in Dubai could prove a key advantage for West Acre, who will face opponents such as Keeneland second Star Of Mystery, Hong Kong sprinter Howdeepisyourlove and Prix de l’Abbaye third Believing – all of whom will be making their seasonal reappearances.

“He's trained in that climate, and he's raced on that track.

“I think that will give him a significant advantage from those shipping in, who have been in a different place or training in the colder weather.

“I’m not saying it’s a big advantage, but it gives him an opportunity to be competitive.

“He has done very well; he’s improved since when he arrived in Dubai and he’s certainly maintaining that physicality. Mentally, he’s grown up a lot and has been very happy and relaxed in his training.”

A Group 1 victory has narrowly eluded George Scott in his career thus far, with early flagbearer James Garfield narrowly missing out in the Prix Maurice de Gheest after a successful juvenile and three-year-old campaign. He has consistently produced Group performers over the last few seasons, with the likes of Seven Questions (Group 3 Palace House Stakes), Isle of Jura (Group 2 Hardwicke Stakes) and Bay City Roller (Group 2 Champagne Stakes) all representing at the top UK fixtures.

Dubai will be West Acre’s first attempt in Group 1 company, but Scott’s sights remain firmly at the top-level for the exciting three-year-old over the course of the season.

“I’m certainly hopeful of a big run. I’m aware it’s another big step forward, after beating local horses impressively. This is against some of then best sprinters around, so I do think he’s going to have come forward again to win.

“Looking forward, he’ll be targeted at the King Charles II Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Nunthorpe Stakes at York. The Breeders’ Cup is an option – those are the three races in my mind.

“I’d like him to end back up in Dubai.”

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

【2025 Dubai World Cup Day】Countdown to Glory

25/03/2025

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

Facteur Cheval gearing up for Dubai Turf defence

Information provided by Racing & Sports

27/03/2025

Jerome Reynier will be hoping the stable's flagbearer Facteur Cheval can bounce back to his very best as he gears up for a defence of the Dubai Turf at Meydan on April 5th.

The six-year-old gelding, who sports the colours of Team Valour International and Gary Barber, has won six of his nineteen career starts to date and amassed over £3.8 million in prize money.

After a promising third-place finish on his first start on dirt in the Al Maktoum Challenge (Gr.1) at Meydan in January, connections opted to have a crack at the lucrative Saudi Cup (Gr.1) at Riyadh the following month.

Whilst the son of Ribchester was no match for the likes of Japan’s Forever Young and Romantic Warrior on that occasion, finishing back in seventh, Reynier has plenty of reason for optimism as his stable star gears up to take to the turf for the first time this season.

“Facteur Cheval came back quite tired from his run in Saudi Arabia,” said Reynier.

“We gave him a few days off afterwards, and he’s now recovering well.”

Facteur Cheval’s Dubai Turf defence preparations will step up a notch on Friday, with Reynier keen to put his international star through his paces before keeping him ticking over until World Cup night.

Reynier added: “We’re very happy with the way he is physically and mentally. He’s been training well and will do a good canter on Friday before getting some new shoes on!

“After that, he’ll just be ticking over until the race, but he’s happy and likes being there in Meydan.”

Reynier’s gelding enjoyed his day in the sun when claiming his maiden Group 1 in a thrilling renewal of the Dubai Turf twelve months ago, and although realistic about the task he faces against Hong Kong star Romantic Warrior, the Calas-based trainer is looking forward to running his contender back on the turf.

“Hopefully, he will be able to be very competitive once again on the 5th of April. Obviously, Romantic Warrior will be tough to beat, and the Japanese horses look very competitive.

“It will be a tough race but he’s going to be happy going back on the turf, so fingers!”

Connections booked Mickael Barzalona to ride the six-year-old on both his starts on dirt this season, but regular partner Maxime Guyon will be back in the saddle come April 5th as the duo attempt to replicate their surprise success from last year.

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

Danny Shum on Romantic Warrior's Dubai World Cup Day preparation

25/03/2025

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

Frankie Lor on Sword Point's Dubai World Cup Day preparation

25/03/2025

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

John Size on Howdeepisyourlove's Dubai World Cup Day preparation

25/03/2025

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.

Howdeepisyourlove and Sword Point depart for Dubai

25/03/2025

Hong Kong gallopers Howdeepisyourlove and Sword Point departed Sha Tin for Dubai this morning (Tuesday, 25 March).

Howdeepisyourlove will run in the G1 Al Quoz Sprint (1200m), Sword Point competes in the G2 Godolphin Mile (1600m, dirt) and Romantic Warrior, currently in the Middle East, will run in the G1 Dubai Turf (1800m) on Dubai World Cup Night at Meydan on Saturday, 5 April.

Howdeepisyourlove

Howdeepisyourlove

Sword Point

Sword Point

Important Notice:
Information is provided by the third-party provider and it is intended to be used for reference only. The content and information have not been verified or confirmed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and/or its affiliates (together, the “HKJC”), and will not be used for dividend payout purposes. HKJC also do not make any representation or warranty about the timeliness, reliability or accuracy of any such information. The data, articles and other information on these pages are provided on an “as is” basis for information purposes only. None of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, its affiliates or any other person involved in or related to the compilation of such information guarantees its accuracy or reliability and accepts no liability (whether in tort or contract or otherwise) for any loss or damage arising from any inaccuracies or omissions.