Giavellotto Shines in Late Burst to Win Hong Kong Vase at Sha Tin

Giavellotto delivered a thrilling late surge to capture Group One glory in the Longines Hong Kong Vase on the 8th of December at Sha Tin, securing a landmark win for trainer Marco Botti and jockey Oisin Murphy.

The five-year-old, already a dual Yorkshire Cup winner, dropped back to a mile and a half after finishing third in the Irish St Leger in September. Positioned perfectly on the rail by Murphy, Giavellotto bided his time as Japanese runner Pradaria set a measured pace.

A Perfectly Timed Finish

As favourites Luxembourg and Stellenbosch began their challenges, Murphy briefly faced a lack of racing room. But once the gap appeared, Giavellotto unleashed a powerful turn of foot, storming home to secure a decisive victory. Dubai Honour finished strongly for second, completing a British one-two, while Stellenbosch stayed on for third. Luxembourg, making his final career appearance, finished fifth, with stablemate Continuous trailing in ninth.

Jockey and Trainer Celebrate Victory

Murphy praised the horse’s resilience and acceleration:

"He relaxed beautifully and was in a great rhythm. Turning in, I got checked and thought that might be it, but how strong was he late on? Full credit to Marco and his team for an incredible preparation."

Botti credited Murphy for steering the campaign toward Hong Kong:

"After the Irish St Leger, Oisin was insistent we come here, and his advice proved spot on. The horse was fresh, and while dropping back to a mile and a half was a question mark, he handled it beautifully."

The win brought home over £1.3 million, a well-earned reward for breeder and co-owner Francesca Franchini, who had turned down lucrative offers for the son of Mastercraftsman.

"It’s a dream come true," Botti said. "The owner’s faith in the horse has paid off. Giavellotto has thrived with travel and continues to improve."

Dubai Honour’s Brave Effort

Runner-up Dubai Honour, trained by William Haggas and ridden by Tom Marquand, impressed despite unfavourable quick ground. Maureen Haggas, the trainer’s assistant, commended the performance:

"He was keen early but settled well. He ran a fantastic race, and while the winner got the first run, we’re thrilled with his effort."

Giavellotto’s emphatic victory marks him as a top contender for future international targets, highlighting his adaptability and class on the global stage.