Shum believes Romantic Warrior can handle Saudi dirt track

Information provided by Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia

16/12/2024

Credit: Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia

Danny Shum has begun preparations for The Saudi Cup (G1) in February by visiting the track where his three-time Hong Kong Cup winner, Romantic Warrior, will bid to win the world’s most valuable race.

The Saudi Cup will mark the first time any Hong Kong-trained horse has competed in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It will also be the first time Romantic Warrior will have raced on dirt.

“It’s my first time here, so it all feels very new”, Shum said while a spectator during Saturday’s Crown Prince Cups meeting at King Abdulaziz Racecourse. “I walked around the dirt track and have watched a few races.”

“Me and the owners know he’s a very talented horse and we believe he will handle it. We don’t know for sure if he’ll handle it, but I hope so.”

Romantic Warrior is already a record-breaker, being the first horse to win three Hong Kong Cups as well as becoming the highest-earning horse of all-time, something Shum acknowledges is very special. The gelding son of Acclamation is no stranger to winning overseas having added the Grade 1 Yasuda Kinen in Japan this June and Australia’s Cox Plate in 2023 to his impressive CV.

“He created history by winning three Hong Kong Cups and the racing public in Hong Kong love him. It’s very special for me, my stable and for Hong Kong to have a runner in The Saudi Cup, so I want to make sure I do as good a job as possible.”

Lugal wins the Sprinters Stakes at Nakayama.

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.

Cheval A Saudi Cup Facteur

Information provided by Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia

05/02/2025

French raider given glowing assessment ahead of Saudi Cup date (Credit: Dubai Racing Club)

French trainer Jerome Reynier believes the unique 1800-metre one-turn test of the Saudi Cup will suit Facteur Cheval (IRE) when his ‘living legend’ goes up against the world’s best in Riyadh on February 22.

Reynier, along with owners Team Valour Racing/Gary Barber, have mapped out an audacious dirt campaign for the six-year-old, who enjoyed a break-through Group 1 success in the Dubai Turf last March.

Facteur Cheval has been best known for his top-level grass exploits but has had his attentions turned for a crack at the world’s richest race, and connections were deeply encouraged by his recent dirt debut when a closing third in the Al Maktoum Challenge at Meydan Racecourse.

“He took a lot of kickback in his face from his position that day and in the final furlong he was walking all over them but couldn’t find any room,” said the Marseille-based trainer.

“I thought it a better idea to try him on dirt in the Maktoum Challenge and if he ran well we could give it a go in the Saudi Cup. I didn’t want to go straight into a big one with the question mark of him handling the conditions.”

Mickael Barzalona was aboard Facteur Cheval in Dubai last month, with the pair coming from off the pace to try and run down the forward-going and reopposing Walk Of Stars under Tadgh O’Shea.

Reynier continued: “We wanted him to run on and see what his reaction would be to the kickback. Tadgh knows his way round Meydan and has got the perfect horse to do that – he has been going wire to wire on him.

“It will be a very different scenario in Saudi as it is only one turn and a long back stretch and the pace will be much higher too.

“Mickael thinks he will be better suited to the conditions in Saudi compared to Dubai. The surface in Saudi is slightly different and Mickael thinks he will be even better on it, so lets give it a try. The distance is also the same as the Dubai Turf, so we are very hopeful.”

A first outing on dirt was a possible at the end of 2024, and Reynier added: “He has got American connections and they always wanted to try him on dirt.

“They wanted me to send him to California for the Breeders’ Cup Classic last year but I thought the QEII was a better choice – to stay in Europe with a better chance.”

Facteur Cheval came off second best to star miler Charyn on that occasion and, despite only having one Group 1 success to his name, the six-times winner has multiple placings at the highest level.

“He is a living legend for us,” added Reynier. “He is a lovely horse and always gives his best so it is an exciting project to go to Saudi with him.

“We will see how he competes with the Japanese and Americans in the Saudi Cup before probably heading back to the Dubai Turf.

“The Dubai World Cup is 2000 metres with two turns on a particular surface and I think he will be better suited by the Dubai Turf before coming back to Europe.”

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.

Rattle N Roll Books Saudi Cup Spot with Impressive Custodian Success

Information provided by Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia

26/01/2025

Credit: Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia

Rattle N Roll (USA) came from the clouds to run out a comfortable winner of the Group 3 The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup for trainer Kenny McPeek, booking his place in the field for the $20 million Group 1 Saudi Cup at King Abdulaziz Racecourse on Saturday 22 February.

Leased for his Middle Eastern campaign by Saudi Arabian businessman Sharaf Al Hariri from US connections, Lucky Seven Stables, Rattle and Roll was settled well off the pace after emerging from stall 10. US Hall of Fame rider, Joel Rosario patiently waited in behind as fellow American runner EJ Won The Cup (USA), under Mike Smith, set a strong gallop at the front of the field.

Off the home turn Rattle N Roll and Rosario began to make ground and, when switched towards the inside rail, the son of Connect stayed on strongly to power clear in the closing stages, winning by four-and-three-quarter lengths at the line.

After the race, Rosario said: “The horse was able to do everything. I was just sitting there, the pace was good in front and it worked out perfectly.

“It looked like it was a good pace, I just wanted to let him be where he wanted to be and hopefully he can run at the end, and he did! He just went away [after crossing the line]. It was a very good win.”

It marked a double on the day for the US-based rider, who was also successful aboard Ancestral Land (GB) for Saudi-based trainer, Jimmy Jerkens in the Riyadh Dirt Sprint Qualifier presented by REEF.

After his double, Rosario said: “It’s very nice to be here. We had two winners – it was a good day. There are so many things that have to go your way, but it’s a blessing when you can win.”

Commenting on Rattle N Roll’s chance in next month’s Saudi Cup over course and distance, he said: “He handled the track well and we beat good horses today. A lot of good horses are going to be coming here, it’ll be a tough race, but we’ll see what happens – hopefully he can perform the way he did today.”

Elsewhere on the card there was a treble for Saudi-based Portuguese rider Ricardo Ferreira, including aboard Mhally (GB) in The 2000 Guineas presented by Saudi National Bank, a qualifier for the G3 Saudi Derby.

The other qualifier for the Saudi Cup meeting was the Al-Diriyah Cup (Group 1 Obaiya Arabian Classic Qualifier) presented by Diriyah Gate ‍Development Authority, which was won by Nirehazz (FR) for trainer Omar Altuwilei and owner Mohammed Eidan A Alduhamshi.

There were also two high profile Group 1 contests on Saturday, with The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup (for Saudi bred horses) won by Yaroa (KSA) under leading rider, Camilo Ospina, while the SAR 5 million ($1.3 million) King Abdulaziz Cup was landed by Taj Blaadi (KSA) under Saudi Cup-winning rider, Wigberto Ramos, making it five winners on the day for HRH Prince Khaled Bin Faisal Bin Abdulaziz’s Red Stable.

Friday’s meeting at King Abdulaziz Racecourse also included three Saudi Cup qualifiers.

The Ricardo Ferreira-ridden Malyan (GB) was a ready winner of the 1351 Turf Sprint Qualifier presented by NOVA, while Ospina was victorious in the Listed Prince Khalid Abdullah Cup, a qualifier for the G2 Neom Turf Cup, aboard Bolide Potro (IRE), formerly trained by Gianluca Bietolini in France and now a winner of two of his four starts in Saudi Arabia.

The final qualifier on Friday was the Arabian Horses Open (Al Mneefah Qualifier) presented by Alfakhera, which was won by the Naif Alanzi-ridden Sharfa Alhezam (KSA).

The $38.1 million Saudi Cup meeting will take place at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh on 21 and 22 February 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.

Saudi Cup Represents Romantic Warrior’s Solo Dirt Outing, Says Shum

Information provided by Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia

11/02/2025

Hong Kong Hero Arrives in Riyadh Ahead of Unique Career Challenge

Romantic Warrior (IRE) is likely to get one lifetime shot on dirt, his trainer Danny Shum has revealed with the worlds’ highest-earning racehorse set to return to turf after contesting the $20million Saudi Cup in Riyadh on Saturday week.

The three-time Hong Kong Cup winner jetted into Saudi Arabia from Dubai on Monday morning ahead of a first outing away from grass, after blitzing the field to break the track record in the Jebel Hatta at Meydan Racecourse last month.

Shum and owner Peter Lau resisted the temptation to test the winner of over $18 million in prize money on dirt in Dubai last month, and will instead roll the dice at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in the 1800-metre Group 1 – when the world’s richest horse contests the world’s richest race.

“Wherever we finish in the Saudi Cup it is 99 per cent certain he will run next in the Dubai Turf,” Shum explained after seeing Romantic Warrior settle into the international quarantine facilities.

“The Dubai Racing Club have already accepted my entry for the Dubai Turf but not the Dubai World Cup yet, as we want to see how Romantic Warrior finishes the race here, but he will almost certainly go for the turf race.”

Romantic Warrior left Hong Kong soon after landing his historic treble at Sha Tin under the Longines World’s Best Jockey, James McDonald, and Shum soon followed on an exploratory visit to the Middle East to have a look at the Riyadh dirt.

He sought council about the surface switch from as many different sources as possible, including the legendary former jockey Mick Kinane, but a meeting between owner and trainer determined Romantic Warrior’s path to potential stardom in Saudi Arabia.

“It wasn’t an easy decision for the owner as we missed the Gold Cup and Stewards’ Cup in Hong Kong,” explained Shum. “If we stayed there we could win on the turf easily, but Peter really wanted to try the challenge of the world’s richest race and come to The Saudi Cup, and we are really looking forward to it.

“James, Peter and I discussed about running first on dirt in the Al Maktoum Challenge and thought that might be better.

“But Peter and I had a lunch meeting and he made a very good point. He said we should run on the turf in Dubai as he could have a [bad] experience on the dirt there, and that the Dubai and Saudi dirt is different. He could win or run really well in Dubai, but that doesn’t mean he can run well in Saudi.

“So we went to the Jebel Hatta knowing we can win easily – and we will keep the dirt a secret. Maybe he will be very good on it, or maybe he can’t handle it – but we won’t be disappointed if he loses so long as he is happy and sound.”

The winner of 18 his 23 career starts, Romantic Warrior overcame intense fractions to run out a comfortable near five-length winner under McDonald.

“In that race you saw Romantic Warrior and his turn of foot,’ said Shum. “He hit the line strong and he is improving – which I am quite shocked about as he is seven-years-old!

“I didn’t worry as I talked to James and I trust him 100 percent as to when is the right time to press the button. The horse is waiting for his instructions, you can see that, and the horse and jockey are really matched together.

“James has such confidence in the horse. When you watch James and Romantic Warrior – they are one. It is amazing to see. It’s incredible.”

Shum and his team in Hong Kong have built up a close relationship with Romantic Warrior and his staff have kept the trainer aware of his movements in Dubai with videos of daily workouts and swimming exploits.

“I am so lucky to have him and he is so good to my stable,” said Shum. “As a trainer I am lucky to have a horse like him and I love him. And the horse loves me and the team.

“I want to keep him for as long as possible – not for the money but because we love each other. I love to see him and feed him carrots and he’s then so happy.”

Romantic Warrior is a regular traveller after collecting a Cox Plate and Yasuda Kinen with visits to Australia and Japan in addition to his Dubai heroics, but Shum sees his future closer to home.

“I talked to the owner before I left and he probably won’t run overseas anymore and we will keep him in Hong Kong for three or four races every season,” he added. “Keep him healthy and happy and hopefully he can do good.”

And hopefully he can do good for Shum and Hong Kong on dirt in The Saudi Cup on February 22.

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.

Saudi Cup Field Features Stars From Japan, HK and Dubai

Information provided by Bloodhorse, Bob Kieckhefer

07/02/2025

Superstars from Japan, Hong Kong, and Dubai are lined up to contest the world's richest race, the $20 million Saudi Cup (G1) Feb. 22 at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh, while several of the expected American horses took a pass.

The list of likely runners released Feb. 7 by the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia includes Hong Kong's 10-time group 1 winner Romantic Warrior ; the 2024 Dubai World Cup (G1) winner, Laurel River ; and Forever Young , winner of the 2024 Saudi Derby (G3).

Romantic Warrior, already a top-level winner in Hong Kong, Japan, Australia, and Dubai, will be partnered by regular jockey James McDonald for his first run on dirt. The Japanese contingent also includes the 2024 Saudi Cup runner-up Ushba Tesoro , Wilson Tesoro, and Ramjet.

United States-based contenders will be in short supply.

White Abarrio , the 2023 Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) champion and 2025 Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes (G1) winner trained by Saffie Joseph Jr., had been expected back after a 10th-place finish in the 2024 Saudi Cup but was ruled out by his connections earlier in the week in favor of a U.S. campaign.

ROLLINS: White Abarrio to Skip Saudi Cup, Will Target Met Mile

The 2024 Breeders' Cup Classic winner, Sierra Leone , also is a no-show after developing an ill-timed foot problem. And the 2024 Saudi Cup winner, Senor Buscador, was abruptly retired days before his scheduled start in the Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park.

Trainer Kenny McPeek craftily earned Rattle N Roll  a spot in the Saudi Cup by sending him to victory in the domestic Saudi qualifier, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup (G3), rather than contesting the Pegasus. The Todd Pletcher-trained Pegasus runner-up, Locked , also is included in the list of probables, though the colt's connections may opt to stay stateside and run in the March 1 Santa Anita Handicap (G1).

Soul of an Angel , trained by Joseph, is on the standby list. Soul of an Angel is the reigning Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Sprint (G1) winner.

Credit: Dubai Racing Club

Walk of Stars , who won the Al Maktoum Challenge (G1) at Meydan Racecourse last time out, will run for United Arab Emirates-based trainer Bhupat Seemar, who also conditions Laurel River. Facteur Cheval , who chased Walk of Stars home in third in the Al Maktoum Challenge in his dirt debut, will represent France for owners Team Valor International and Gary Barber, and trainer Jerome Reynier.

The local challenge for the sixth renewal of the world's most valuable race will be led by El Kodigo for trainer Abdulaziz Mashref.

Undercard Events
The Saudi Cup is the highlight of a two-day meeting on both dirt and turf, with events at the full range of distances, a race for horses from jurisdictions below the top international levels, and a jockey challenge that has drawn some of the world's best-known riders.

The Saudi Derby takes on particular interest with the Bob Baffert-trained Getaway Car  and Chad Summers' Cyclone State , winner of the Jan. 4 Jerome Stakes at Aqueduct Racetrack, expected in a full international field. Japanese trainers have four likely starters. Joseph O'Brien's Apples And Bananas  and Roger Varian's Antelope Canyon  represent Ireland and England, respectively.

Golden Vekoma , last-out winner of the UAE Two Thousand Guineas (G3) in Dubai, is also among the likely for the Saudi Derby.

This year's increased spacing between the Saudi Cup and Dubai World Cup provides additional incentive for horses to move from one to the next and the Saudi Derby thus naturally points to the UAE Derby (G2) April 5—a race that effectively now is a "Win and You're In" for the Kentucky Derby (G1).

Only two other American runners are listed as likely for the Saudi Cup program. MyRacehorse's 2024 Breeders' Cup Sprint (G1) winner Straight No Chaser , trained by Dan Blacker, is the lone American representative in the Riyadh Dirt Sprint (G2), and 2024 Franklin-Simpson Stakes (G1T) winner Howard Wolowitz , trained by Jose D'Angelo, is listed as likely for the 1351 Turf Sprint (G2T).

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.

World Pool - Saudi Cup: El Kodigo Aiming to Crack Saudi Cup Code for Buenos Airés-Based Jockey

Information provided by Racing & Sports

13/02/2025

Intense For Me and El Kodigo First Argentine Bred Runners to Conest World’s Richest Race (Credit: Turf Diario / Juan I Bozello)

South American rider Gustavo Calvente has nominated the drop to 1800 metres as the only potential negative for Argentinean star El Kodigo (ARG) when he tackles the Saudi Cup at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh on February 22 - a race that will be a World Pool feature.

Recognized as the top dirt horse in his homeland, El Kodigo is a multiple Group 1 winner over longer distances and has been purchased from Stud Juan Antonio to race in Saudi Arabia for Muhaideb Abdullah Almuhaideb.

The local owner has also snapped up El Kodigo's Argentinean rival, Intense For Me (ARG), and will field three runners in the world's richest race with recent UK Cup winner Defunded (USA) also in the $20 million Group 1.

"El Kodigo is the best horse I've ever ridden," said Calvente. "No one expected a few days ago that he would be running in such an important race, but here we are – getting ready for the challenge. He's full of class and I trust he'll overcome any obstacles.

"The drop back in distance is my only worry – he's coming off a win in the Ramírez in Uruguay at 2400 meters. 

"As a juvenile he won the Group 1 Polla de Potrillos at 1600 metres, so he has speed, but he's been conditioned for longer trips. It'll come down to using his turn of foot and hoping for a fast pace, and with Laurel River (USA)  in the mix, that seems guaranteed."

The four-year-old will renew rivalry with Intense For Me who edged him out at the wire in the most recent renewalof the Group 1 Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini in December. 

"El Kodigo has an exceptional record with five Group 1 victories, but this is a whole new level," Calvente continued. "I'm anxious for the moment to arrive and I trust he'll rise to the occasion. I've been studying the competition in Saudi Arabia, and Forever Young (JPN) looks outstanding. 
"The prospect of a fast pace gives me confidence. My only hope is that he handles the travel well, as he usually does, but this is a long trip with limited time to acclimate."

Calvente will be returning to Saudi Arabia on the back of Miriñaque's (ARG) respectable seventh-place finish in the 2021 Red Sea Turf Handicap.

"It was a dream week with Miriñaque, an unforgettable experience," added the Buenos Airés-based jockey. 

"Although we competed on turf, we trained on dirt, and the surface there is ideal for El Kodigo—a bit deeper than ours but with good grip. It's more like Maroñas than Palermo, and he's excelled on both.

"It's an honour for our team to take South America's best dirt horse to compete against the world's elite in Saudi Arabia.

"No Argentine horse has run in the Saudi Cup before, and now there will be two of us. It's a huge source of pride."

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.

World Pool - Saudi Cup: McDonald Confident Dirt No Issue for Warrior

Information provided by Racing & Sports

14/02/2025

Australian-based New Zealand jockey positive ahead of Saudi Cup tilt

James McDonald is quietly confident Romantic Warrior (IRE) can transfer his form onto dirt and will be "one hell of a horse to beat" if doing so in the USD$20 million Saudi Cup in Riyadh on Saturday week.

The Sydney-based jockey has scooped a brilliant nine Group 1s on the three-time Hong Kong Cup winner, but the partnership faces a new test in Riyadh when tackling a dirt surface for the first time in competitive action.

"It is an interesting one and I probably know as much as everyone else as he is pretty untried on it," said McDonald on the underfoot switch.

"The one thing we are grasping on is that he has trialled really well in Hong Kong on dirt. I know it is a completely different dirt, but he has gone particularly well on it and that is a little inkling that he might adapt pretty well.

"If there is one horse in the world who I think can transfer his turf form to the dirt it is Romantic Warrior, as he has an incredible heart and an incredible will to win and a great racing style as well.

"I am quietly confident he will handle it and I'm quietly confident that if he does handle it, he is going to be one hell of a horse to beat," McDonald told the Nick Luck Daily Podcast.

Romantic Warrior has been based in Dubai since December, and on the back of his track-record win in the Jebel Hatta the Danny Shum-trained seven-year-old arrived into Saudi Arabia on Monday morning.

"He has travelled over at the same weight and left one pound of feed," said the rider. "He has trotted up sound and all the reports are very good as the first day he normally leaves a dipper, so Danny says, so he has travelled well."

Romantic Warrior has landed top-flight events in not just his native Hong Kong but also Japan, Australia and Dubai, and McDonald revealed the Peter Lau-owned gelding can become excited on his travels.

"He is a very enthusiastic horse but he has got an extremely good temperament. He can get over excited at times when he is a little bit above himself and we saw that in Dubai," said the New Zealand native.

"Everyone was probably a little worried going out to that race as he was very on his toes. 

"He was very fresh and it was new surroundings and that is what he was like in Japan, but in Hong Kong he is an absolute lamb.

"You can get two different types of him but he is a very gentle giant and is very good to do anything with, but when it comes to work and the races he has got the eye of a tiger and a phenomenal will to win."

Shum has spoken this week about the relationship between Romantic Warrior and McDonald, and rider commented: "Anyone could strap themselves to this horse and be pretty successful.

"Every time I get on him I feel like he is unbeatable – he just gives you that feeling and that is incredible going to these big races like that.

"He is horse of a lifetime and has taken Danny, Peter and I to some great countries on a great ride. We are very lucky and blessed to come across him.'

"I just feel like he is getting better and better at the moment so there is no reason why he can't be the horse to beat in Saudi, and the horse to beat back in Dubai in a month's time," he added.

"He is still on an upwards spiral and at the peak of his powers at the moment."

The Saudi Cup will feature as a World Pool-covered event.

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.

Peter Lau excited as Romantic Warrior makes Saudi Cup challenge

By Declan Schuster

17/02/2025

Peter Lau (middle) with jockey James McDonald and trainer Danny Shum.

Peter Lau is living the dream with Romantic Warrior and the affable owner of Hong Kong’s flag bearer is holding faith in the champion horse’s ability and adaptability ahead of Saturday’s (22 February) G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Taking aim at the world’s richest race worth US$20 million (approx. HK$155.69 million) at King Abdulaziz racecourse in Riyadh, the globe’s highest earner Romantic Warrior faces his greatest challenge yet – a debut on dirt against well reputed opposition on the surface from Japan, the United States of America, Saudi Arabia and South America.

“I am excited – it is the highest prize money race in the world and many of the best dirt horses from around the world will be coming. I am very delighted to see how he goes against them. I’m looking forward to it, I will head over on Wednesday (19 February),” Lau said.

“He is good over 1600 and 2000 (metres), so I think over 1800 he should have both the speed and stamina. Danny Shum (trainer) and I speak every day on the phone. He reports on the form of the horse and from him he says the horse is very happy and healthy.”

Global champion Romantic Warrior – bought out of the 2021 Hong Kong International Sale by Lau for HK$4.8 million – has returned an astounding 10 Group 1 wins in Hong Kong, Japan, Australia and the United Arab Emirates for his adventurous owner.

“If he can suit the dirt, I think his class is no lower than any of the other horses. My prediction is that it will not be too close – if we are not suited on the dirt then maybe he’ll finish fourth, fifth or in the middle but if we are as good on the dirt as we are on the turf then I think we are very hard to beat,” Lau said.

The Irish-bred son of Acclamation is the only three-time HK$40 million G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (2000m) winner (2022, 2023 & 2024). He has also won the HK$28 million G1 FWD QEII Cup (2000m) three times (2022, 2023 & 2024).

The seven-year-old’s overseas triumphs came in the 2023 G1 W.S. Cox Plate (2040m) in Australia, 2024 G1 Yasuda Kinen (1600m) in Japan and most recently the 2025 G1 Jebel Hatta (1800m) in Dubai last month.

Racing on dirt is uncharted territory for Romantic Warrior, who makes his 24th career start this weekend against rivals headlined by 2024 G1 Kentucky Derby (2000m, dirt) and 2024 G1 LONGINES Breeders’ Cup Classic (2000m, dirt) third Forever Young.

2023 G1 Dubai World Cup (2000m, dirt) winner Ushba Tesoro lines up as do Wilson Tesoro, Ramjet, Facteur Cheval and Rattle N Roll. El Kodigo – regarded as South America’s best dirt horse – features, while Bhupat Seemar is preparing Walk Of Stars – recent 2025 G1 Al Maktoum Challenge (1900m, dirt) winner. Al Musmak, Defunded, Intense For Me, Wait To Excel, Scotland Yard and Wootton’sun complete the likely field.

Lau’s odyssey with Romantic Warrior – who has unmatched earnings of HK$179.66 million (approx. US$23.09 million) – heads back to Dubai after this weekend, where he expects the horse will return to turf.  

“I think most likely we will race in the Dubai Turf (G1, 1800m on 5 April). It’s not likely we will run on the dirt (Dubai World Cup) unless we can win easily,” Lau said.

Lau is a lifelong lover of horse racing. He has previously raced King Of Household, Household King, Romantic Chef, Romantic Hero and Romantic Charm in Hong Kong – the latter is Romantic Warrior’s travelling companion. Lau’s other horse currently in training is former Aidan O’Brien galloper Romantic Thor. 

“Health-wise – Romantic Warrior is better than when he ran in Australia and Japan, I think. He has a great heart and he is always competitive – he’s just a very good horse,” Lau said.

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.

Proud Danny Shum hopes Romantic Warrior shines again on global stage

By Declan Schuster

18/02/2025

Trainer Danny Shum with Romantic Warrior and jockey James McDonald at the 2024 LONGINES Hong Kong International Races.

Danny Shum feels a great sense of pride as he prepares his champion Romantic Warrior for an historic shot at Saturday’s (22 February) G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Despite no breeding industry and only around 1,300 horses in training registered with The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Hong Kong is repeatedly ultra-competitive on the world stage, and Shum will break new ground this weekend at King Abdulaziz Racecourse when Romantic Warrior not only races on dirt for the first time but is also the city’s first runner in Riyadh.

Captivating audiences worldwide across his phenomenal 23-start career in Hong Kong, Australia, Japan and Dubai, Hong Kong International Sale graduate Romantic Warrior will race in his fifth jurisdiction bidding for a 19th win, 11th Group 1 score and the lion’s share of US$20 million (approx. HK$155.69 million) in the world’s richest race.

Shum said: “The horse is good. The team is doing their best for the horse, Hong Kong (China) and The Hong Kong Jockey Club. We are all doing our best over here for everyone.

“He’s pretty sound, he’s healthy and he’s happy. It was a short trip from Dubai – so it’s all ok. He has the travel experience now, so he’s used to it.”

Romantic Warrior has won his last eight consecutive races – seven at Group 1 level. The 134-rater (in Hong Kong) is chasing a fourth overseas win on Saturday night after prevailing in the 2023 G1 W.S. Cox Plate (2040m) in Australia, 2024 G1 Yasuda Kinen (1600m) in Japan and 2025 G1 Jebel Hatta (1800m) in the United Arab Emirates.

Shum, a protege of champion horseman Ivan Allan, has once again enlisted the assistance of renowned horse physio Tom Simpson from Australia to ensure no stone is left unturned.  

“The facilities are good and the people here are very helpful. I have Tom (Simpson) here – he’s the horse physio and he’s doing treatment on him to try and do the best for Romantic Warrior,” Shum said.

Shum was assistant to Allan and crusaded the likes of Fairy King Prawn, Oriental Express and Indigenous abroad for the master trainer. The 64-year-old trainer has 862 Hong Kong wins and is pleased with work rider Gary Lau’s feedback from chilly mornings at trackwork.

“Gary Lau, who rides him in the mornings, all of his reports to me have been pretty positive. He says the horse is good and that his condition is getting better and better – better than when he won the Jebel Hatta.

“He’s a very easy horse. It’s two horses in the stable – Romantic Charm and Romantic Warrior. They’re really comfortable and easy to handle,” Shum said.

Formerly owned and raced by Peter Lau, Romantic Charm has been by Romantic Warrior’s side in Australia, Japan and now the Middle East.

Shum said: “It’s absolutely great to have Romantic Charm here. When Romantic Charm goes out, he turns his head and he’s always looking for Romantic Warrior. They look for each other – they’re like a couple or brothers!”

Shum put Romantic Warrior – the world’s highest earning horse with HK$179.66 million (approx. US$23.09 million) banked – through the stalls last week and is satisfied with the galloper’s effort as he continues to familiarise himself with the King Abdulaziz dirt.

“He hasn’t jumped out of the gates for a long time, but he will race on the dirt, so I put him in the gates. He jumped good and he’s working well. He’s been more relaxed and feeling happy,” Shum said.

The Saudi Cup is scheduled for 8.40pm (AST) locally on Saturday night (22 February). Due to a five-hour time difference the race starts at 1.40am (HKT) for Hong Kong viewers on Sunday, 23 February.

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.

Dirt the final frontier as Warrior faces Saudi Cup showdown

By Graham Cunningham

18/02/2025

Romantic Warrior conquers Dubai in the G1 Jebel Hatta.

‘Once in your life, we should try.’

Peter Lau’s simple seven-word mantra has guided the world’s most accomplished racehorse on an epic journey but a more complex seven-word question remains as the Hong Kong hero lines up for the US$20m G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt) in Riyadh this Saturday (22 February).

Will Romantic Warrior shine on the dirt?

Lau built a major business career thinking globally and that intrepid spirit has been replicated as an owner as his superstar seven-year-old has assembled a record that is hard to encapsulate in a few short paragraphs.

But let’s give it a try:

A thrilling BMW Hong Kong Derby win in 2022 paved the way for spectacular success on home turf, with seven G1 scores culminating in a commanding defeat of world-class international rivals in the G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (2000m) at Sha Tin in December.

But true warriors carve a place in history on foreign fields and, under skilful guidance from Danny Shum and James McDonald, this one has excelled in three daring foreign raids.

Australia’s best 2000m horses – headed by multiple G1 winners Mr Brightside and Alligator Blood – had to give best as Romantic Warrior prevailed in a thunderous finish to the G1 W.S. Cox Plate (2040m) at Moonee Valley in October 2023.

Japan’s elite milers couldn’t cope with his pace and power as he emulated Hong Kong legends Fairy King Prawn and Bullish Luck by winning the G1 Yasuda Kinen (1600m) at Tokyo in June 2024.

And just over six weeks on from a historic third Hong Kong Cup win, Romantic Warrior travelled to Dubai and shredded Meydan’s 1800m track record with a runaway success in the G1 Jebel Hatta Presented by Longines last month.

But a daring plan to win the world’s richest race with the world’s highest earning horse involves a switch from lush green turf to unforgiving brown dirt.

Shum says “maybe he will be very good or maybe he can’t handle it,” while McDonald weighs up various pros and cons before concluding that “I am quietly confident he will handle it.”

It’s clear that the two men closest to Romantic Warrior are taking nothing for granted, possibly because the history of star turf horses tackling world-class dirt races provides mixed messages.

City Of Troy’s tame effort in the G1 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar last November remains fresh in the memory and his trainer Aidan O’Brien has missed out in the same race with numerous turf aces over the years including Galileo and dual Cox Plate hero So You Think.

But that sample doesn’t tell the whole story.

O’Brien came within a neck of landing the Classic at the first attempt when Giant’s Causeway was worn down by Tiznow at Churchill Downs in 2000, while runaway Arc winner Sakhee ran the same horse to a nose a year later at Belmont.

Early Dubai World Cups also produced notable runs from turf stars - with a historic win for British globetrotter Singspiel, a close second for Godolphin challenger Swain and a willing third for Bullish Luck – and one jockey was a fixture in that golden era.

Danny Shum celebrates with Romantic Warrior’s owner, Mr Peter Lau and jockey James McDonald after the victory in the 2024 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup.

Kinane considers the Cup question

Mick Kinane rode Giant’s Causeway and Swain to their near misses and, as the man who bought Romantic Warrior on behalf of the Hong Kong Jockey Club in 2019, the legendary Irish rider is ideally placed to assess the turf versus dirt debate.

“A good dirt horse must have a lot of pace and courage, and this horse has great gate speed and a hunger to win that is very rare,” he says.

“You can see how much he believes in himself after winning so many big races and his rider shares that confidence, so they’re a great pairing.”

Kinane has experience of riding on the wide, galloping Riyadh dirt track and rates it a more suitable surface for turf horses than others he has encountered.

“The kickback often comes at you in lumps if you miss the break in America or Dubai but the Saudi surface isn’t nearly as severe or penal,” he adds.

“If there’s a dirt surface Romantic Warrior has a chance of operating well on it could be this one.

“It’s a major new test but he’s already taken his team on a phenomenal world tour and I’ll be surprised if he doesn’t show up and get in the mix again.”

And so, in summary, we have caution from Danny, quiet confidence from James and guarded optimism from Mick.

But how can anyone approach this year’s Saudi Cup with maximum confidence when so many key metrics can be viewed in contrasting ways?

Romantic Warrior has the highest international rating in the field (125) but that figure was earned on the green stuff.

He shines on Sha Tin dirt in the mornings but, as his trainer says: “Trials are trials and races are races.”

There are dirt influences on the female side of his pedigree but his sire Acclamation is a generally a strong turf influence.

No dirt debutant has ever lifted the Saudi Cup but Mishriff and Panthalassa both won it while much better known for their turf achievements.

America’s best dirt horses have stayed at home but Japan sends another strong team, headed by the high-class improver Forever Young.

It will take a little under two minutes of unforgiving action under the Riyadh lights on Saturday for the crucial seven-word question to be answered.

Mick Kinane secures Romantic Warrior for the Hong Kong International Sale.

Will Romantic Warrior shine on the dirt?

Fans all over the world will debate the matter but a simple seven-word answer has accompanied Hong Kong’s travelling star on his odyssey.

And there isn’t a fan on the planet who would disagree with Peter Lau when he smiles proudly and says: ‘Once in your life, we should try.’

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 pleased as Romantic Warrior ramps up Saudi Cup preparation

By Declan Schuster in Riyadh

19/02/2025

Romantic Warrior strides out with James McDonald in Riyadh.

James McDonald indicated it’s all systems go for Romantic Warrior after the champion ticked off his final fast work on Tuesday (18 February) at King Abdulaziz Racecourse ahead of Saturday’s (22 February) G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Danny Shum’s galloper – earner of a world record HK$179.66 million (approx. US$23.09 million) – is chasing victory in the globe’s richest race worth US$20 million (approx. HK$155.69 million) when he makes a groundbreaking first start on the dirt in Saudi Arabia.

“He’s a pretty cruisy customer and he takes everything in his stride. Nothing’s really changed from Dubai onwards. He’s worked on the dirt and obviously that’s the big question mark and we won’t know until race day,” McDonald said.

“He’s really good. He’s very well within himself. Danny and the team have done a really good job over the last month by keeping him in a really healthy condition. He seems really good.”

A Group 1 winner in Hong Kong, Australia, Japan and Dubai, Romantic Warrior faces opposition from the likes of Japan, the United States of America, South America and Saudi Arabia, headlined by well-travelled duo Forever Young and Ushba Tesoro.

Romantic Warrior won the G1 Jebel Hatta (1800m) in course record time (1m 45.10s) by a comfortable four and a half lengths last month at Meydan in Dubai. The horse sported grip shoes in yesterday’s hit-out.

“I’ve got a feeling that he will be successful on the dirt. He’s just a very good racehorse – so he’ll adapt well. The main thing is that his wellbeing is spot on. He looks great and he feels great, so we can’t do anymore,” McDonald said.

Saturday’s field also includes Al Musmak, Defunded, El Kodigo, Facteur Cheval, Intense For Me, Ramjet, Rattle N Roll, Wait To Excel, Walk Of Stars, Wilson Tesoro, Wootton’sun and Scotland Yard. Barriers will be drawn this evening (Wednesday, 19 February).

“I haven’t ridden on too many dirt tracks so I can’t really compare too many, but he seemed to handle it ok. It’s a real powdery sort of track and the kickback was there but it wasn’t coarse or anything,” McDonald said.

Michael Kinane is one of world racing’s most distinguished figures and the former jockey sources northern hemisphere prospects for The Hong Kong Jockey Club – a role that set him on a collision course with Hong Kong racing’s courageous banner horse Romantic Warrior.

The 2019 Tattersalls October Yearling Sale in Newmarket, England is where it started for Romantic Warrior – offered as Lot 975 on Corduff Stud’s account – and Kinane, who successfully secured the bay juvenile for 300,000gns.

“He was just the perfect model for what I was looking for – a middle-distance horse. He had a lovely colour, great eye and a great athletic walk to him. He just caught my eyes straight away and I was lucky to get him and lucky to buy him,” Kinane said.

Entered in the 2021 Hong Kong International Sale, the Irish-bred gelding was then bought by current owner Peter Lau for HK$4.8 million.

“He has self-belief. Horses like him they get so much confidence, and you can see it in him. He knows he has the ability and he has great courage when needed,” Kinane said.

Kinane, who rode Viva Pataca to consecutive Champions & Chater Cup (2400m) scores in 2006 and 2007 among other big race wins in Hong Kong atop Able One, Idol, Luso, Precision and Red Bishop, has ridden previously in Saudi Arabia.

“Romantic Warrior’s huge asset is his gate speed and anytime there’s a huge tempo on, he seems to be at his best. You’ll find that probably in this race which can help him.

“The kickback is always the big one when they’re not used to it. The good thing about it is, and I’ve ridden in Saudi Arabia, it is the best dirt track in the world with regards to kickback.

“For a horse to take his first shot at the dirt, it’s the best surface in the world to take your shot at it because the kickback that comes back is not heavy, it comes back more or less in a spray.

“It’s not like Dubai or America where the kickback is clumpy and very severe. If a horse hesitates just one stride, then you’re down two seconds, and it’s very hard if the horses head is up and he’s not getting traction,” Kinane said.

Mishriff (2021) and Panthalassa (2023) – both turf Group 1 winners – have previously won the Saudi Cup.

“We’re all hoping and fingers crossed he can do it, he never lets anybody down this horse,” Kinane said.

Danny Shum celebrates with Romantic Warrior’s owner, Mr Peter Lau and jockey James McDonald after the victory in the 2024 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup.

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 draws barrier three for Saudi Cup in Riyadh

By Declan Schuster in Riyadh

20/02/2025

Romantic Warrior has won 18 times from 23 starts.

Romantic Warrior will break from barrier three against 13 rivals in Saturday’s (22 February) G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt) at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Hong Kong’s global champion is seeking a 19th win, an 11th at Group 1 level and an extension to world record earnings of HK$179.66 million (approx. US$23.09 million) in the feature race worth US$20 million (approx. HK$155.69 million).

Romantic Warrior – a graduate of the Hong Kong International Sale where he was purchased for HK$4.8 million – will start in his fifth jurisdiction after returning Group 1 wins in Hong Kong, Australia, Japan and the United Arab Emirates.

If successful in the Saudi Cup, Romantic Warrior will set a record for the most Group 1 wins by a Hong Kong-trained horse. Both he and the retired Golden Sixty currently have 10 each.

Trained by Danny Shum and to be ridden by jockey James McDonald, the Irish-bred son of Acclamation squares off with Forever Young, Rattle N Roll, Facteur Cheval, Ushba Tesoro, Walk Of Stars, Ramjet, Al Musmak, El Kodigo, Wait To Excel, Wilson Tesoro, Defunded, Intense For Me and Wootton’sun in the nine furlong showdown.

Shum said: “The draw is good. I need to study the field and see how he goes but draw three is better than 13, at least.”

On Wednesday morning (19 February) at trackwork, Romantic Warrior fired up under his work rider Gary Lau as the home straight was busy with galloping contenders.

“His trackwork is awesome. He’s improving, this horse, even though he is seven years old. He will run a good race. The horse wanted to go this morning. The grip shoes will be on,” Shum said.

Japanese duo Forever Young and Ushba Tesoro break from barriers 14 and one, respectively.

Saudi Cup Weekend 2025 features prize money of over US$38.1 million (approx. HK$295.53 million) across Friday (21 February) and Saturday (22 February).

Friday sees the running of the Diriyah International Jockeys’ Challenge, featuring 14 riders competing for a share of US$100,000 (approx. HK$777,713) across four races on turf and dirt.

2025’s line-up comprises McDonald, Hollie Doyle, Rachel King, Oisin Murphy, Mohammed Aldhaham, Maryline Eon, Ricardo Ferreira, Manami Nagashima, Kelly Myers, Tadhg O’Shea, Christophe Soumillon, John Velazquez, Sofia Vives and Sibylle Vogt.

On Saturday, action kicks off at 9.20pm (HKT) for Hong Kong viewers with the World Pool in operation. The G3 Saudi Derby (1600m, dirt) is race one, followed by the G2 Riyadh Dirt Sprint (1200m, dirt), Saudi International Handicap (2100m), G2 Neom Turf Cup (2100m), G2 1351 Turf Sprint (1351m), G2 Red Sea Turf (3000m) and G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt).

The Saudi Cup jumps at 8.40pm (AST) in Riyadh, 1.40am (HKT) on Sunday, 23 February in Hong Kong due to a five-hour time difference.

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.

Bhupat Seemar eager for Saudi Cup competition with Romantic Warrior

By Declan Schuster in Riyadh

20/02/2025

Walk Of Stars at trackwork in Riyadh.

Bhupat Seemar is pumped to oppose Romantic Warrior in Saturday’s (22 February) G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt) when his classy Walk Of Stars represents the United Arab Emirates-based horseman in the world’s richest race, worth US$20 million (approx. HK$155.69 million).

Group 1-winning Walk Of Stars was triumphant of his last two starts by a combined 13 and three quarter lengths on dirt in Dubai. The Dubawi gelding is owned by Saudi Arabian connections Athbah Racing and pairs with 12-time UAE Champion Jockey Tadhg O’Shea.

The six-year-old bay has an experience edge over Romantic Warrior on the dirt, but Seemar – head of the renowned Zabeel Stables and twice UAE Champion Trainer – suggests Saudi’s surface can befit Hong Kong’s champion as he debuts on the dirt at King Abdulaziz Racecourse.

“What can I say about him (Romantic Warrior)? He says that all about himself. He’s the highest earner in the world and he can travel anywhere in the world – he’s been to so many different countries,” Seemar said. “He’s a very special horse and it’s good to see him run here. I think the track here does suit all kinds of horses and I think it does suit the turf horses as well.”

Representing Hong Kong, China, Romantic Warrior faces opposition from Japan, the United States of America, France and Saudi Arabia. Walk Of Stars broke through at the top-level with a quality G1 Al Maktoum Challenge (1900m, dirt) victory last month.

“It’s always great to be in Saudi Arabia and we were here for the inaugural Saudi Cup (in 2020) and since then we’ve been coming almost every year. Great place and good to be here.

“Walk Of Stars has done really well. He’s won his last two (starts) quite impressively. He won a Grade 1 last start, and we were first and second in that. He deserves a place here and he’s doing really well,” Seemar said.

Seemar is without last year’s G1 Dubai World Cup (2000m, dirt) winner Laurel River, who was expected to race this weekend, but will skip the Saudi Cup task due to a setback. Walk Of Stars joined Seemar at the end of 2023 from Charlie Appleby’s barn, where he raced at Group 1 level as a three-year-old in Great Britain’s 2022 G1 Derby Stakes (2400m) at Epsom.

“This year he’s really learnt how to race on the dirt, he’s come around and his last two runs have been very impressive. He’s a horse who has tactical speed and he has the stamina to go with it. He’s a very adaptable horse – he can go forward, sit second and he can sit third.”

Along with Romantic Warrior, Walk Of Stars faces Forever Young, Rattle N Roll, Facteur Cheval, Ushba Tesoro, Ramjet, Al Musmak, El Kodigo, Wait To Excel, Wilson Tesoro, Defunded, Intense For Me and Wootton’sun.

Walk Of Stars steps from barrier six in the 14-runner race this weekend.

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.

Speed and stamina combine for Dubai challenger

Information provided by Racing & Sports, Danny Matthews

20/02/2025

Dubai-based trainer Bhupat Seemar is hoping the experience of failures in past attempts to win races in Saudi Arabia will take a positive turn as he saddles Walk Of Stars to take on Romantic Warrior in the Saudi Cup on Saturday.

Credit: Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia

Though his previous efforts have gone unrewarded, learning that fast dirt horses "tend to spin their wheels" on the Saudi dirt surface has seen him bring a more versatile performer to Riyadh this time for a crack at the US$20 million (AU$35.5 million) feature.

To be ridden by seven-time Group 1 winner Tadgh O'Shea aboard, Walk Of Stars drew barrier five for the 1800-metre Group 1, two spots outside of the Hong Kong superstar, with the ability to push forward to create the early speed.

Winner of the Group 1 Al Maktoum Challenge (1900m) at Meydan four weeks ago, the former UK galloper is ready to perform well but only if he keeps his eyes on the job at hand.

"Walk Of Stars has done really well," Seemar said.

"He won his last two impressively including winning a Grade 1 last start and he deserves his place here.

Walk Of Stars' last outing win posted a career peak Racing and Sports rating of 122 and although that is short of Romantic Warrior's high of 130, Seemar is looking to his charge's adaptability to see him being in the finish.

"He was a very high class horse when he was running in the UK on the turf – he ran in the Epsom Derby – and then we got him and after three races on the dirt, he was thrown in the deep end with the best horses in the country.

"He performed really well and this year he has performed really well and has learned how to race on the dirt.

"He's a horse who has got tactical speed and he has the stamina to go with it. He is a very adaptable."

The trick, however, could be the six-year-old gelding's tendency for his attention to wander.

"He is turning out to be a proper dirt horse and the only worry is that he looks at everything and he needs to adapt to the place," Seemar added.

"I hope that over the next couple of days he will get used to it as today when he went on the track for the first time and he was like a two-year-old looking around at everything.

"I'm hoping he's going to get used to it."

Seemar also has Trafalgar Square engaged in the Group 2 Red Sea Handicap (3000m) on the same card in what will be the four-year-old's first start for the stable

The former French galloper's last run delivered a second placing in the Group 2 Prix Chaudenay (3000m) at Longchamp in October.

"We wanted to give him a run in Dubai but things didn't work out,

"His blood wasn't perfect but he's good now."

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.

Wide gate no issue for Forever Young

Information provided by Racing & Sports, Danny Matthews

21/02/2025

Credit: Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia

It is not often that a dirt race in Japan, let alone a race run at a local government circuit, has a significant presence in a feature race abroad but with four runners coming out of one such event, the Japanese influence is strong in the Saudi Cup on Saturday.

With 22 wins at the highest level to his name – among them the 2019 Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m) with Lys Gracieux – Yoshito Yahagi is in Riyadh not only hoping to snare the world's richest race for the second time after Panthalasa did so in 2023, but also to continue his perfect record when running horses in Saudi Arabia.

Four wins from four starters is nothing to glance by and with three runners across the card, Yahagi's main hopes with be with last start Group 1 Tokyo Daishoten winner (2000m) and three-year-old colt Forever Young in a victory that notched a Racing and Sports rating of 121.

From that race run on December 29 – seven weeks ago – the first four across the line in that event run on the dirt at Ohi, commonly known as Tokyo City Keiba, will line up in the upcoming 1800-metre event.

Second-placed Wilson Tesoro, third-placed Ramjet, and fourth-placed Ushba Tesoro join Forever Young in the Group 1 Saudi Cup field.

Jockey Ryusei Sakai has been aboard the son of Japanese sire Real Steel in all seven of his victories and takes the ride again this time.

"He travelled to Riyadh very well," Sakai said of Forever Young.

"He has been very relaxed and looked confident since he has arrived.

"I have no worries about him. He is a very versatile type of horse and can handle any type of track condition."

Drawing 14 in the field of 14, Yahagi's immediate reaction was one of ambivalence to inner or wider gates but said he preferred to be wider, which is a view shared by his jockey.

"The wide gate is not a big concern and distance-wise there is no issue either."

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.

Easing off the key for American Saudi Cup hope

Information provided by Racing & Sports, Danny Matthews

21/02/2025

Credit: Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia

Time and not as much vigour in training has helped US trainer Kenny McPeek slide Rattle N Roll towards a start in the Group 1 Saudi Cup on Saturday.

McPeek sent the six-year-old to Saudi Arabia two months ago and is seeing that as a wise move for how well the stallion has settled into his surroundings before taking on the world's richest race.

"This is a horse that has rewarded us with the time that we have given him and he is a graded winner at two, three, four, five, and six-years old," McPeek said.

"We've approached him a little bit differently, the older he's become.

"I, admittedly, was pretty aggressive with him as a 3-year-old and even ran him back on seven days' rest.

"He should have won both if not for a little traffic issue."

Rattle N Roll took out the Grade 2 Clark Stakes at Churchill Downs over the same 1800-metre trip as this weekend's assignment before setting off from the USA for the Middle East.

Time to acclimate helped deliver a first win for the son of US sire Connect last month in the Group 3 The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup (1800m) at Riyahd.

"He won in impressive fashion in November," McPeek said.

"We could have taken him to The Pegasus at Gulfstream Park in Florida but we were approached by local ownership about bringing him to Saudi Arabia.

"One more step here and then hopefully we can make it to Dubai."

With eleven wins in his career so far, McPeek knows he has a horse that can be competitive wherever he starts.

"He really is an intelligent horse," he added.

"He knows how to run and he knows how to finish. You can't train that into them and he has handled anywhere we've taken him."

McPeek admits that Rattle N Roll would likely have a higher profile among racing fans had he gained a start in the Grade 1 Breeders' Cup Classic but missed out on a run as first emergency.

Coincidentally, the horse missed a start in the 2023 Grade 1 Kentucky Derby – a race that McPeek won a year later - for the same reason.

Rattle N Roll, with jockey Joel Rosario aboard, will start from barrier seven while race favourite Romantic Warrior starts from barrier three.

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.