Ramadan, a recent €1.5 million purchase by Yulong Investments, will represent trainer James Ferguson in the prestigious Longines Hong Kong Mile on Sunday at Sha Tin. The three-year-old, formerly trained by Christopher Head in France, has an impressive record, including victories in two Group Three races and the Group Two Prix Daniel Wildenstein on Arc weekend.
After his Hong Kong Mile run, Ramadan will transition permanently to the region, joining trainer Mark Newnham. Vin Cox, Yulong’s racing manager, highlighted Ramadan's potential:
"Ramadan will be well and truly in contention in the Mile if he brings his A-game. While the race may not be his ideal distance, he’s likely to flash home late. Longer trips, such as 2000 metres, will suit him better, and the Hong Kong Derby is a likely target."
This mirrors Yulong’s strategy with Via Sistina, who briefly transitioned through Ferguson's care before excelling in Australia under Chris Waller. Having been a standout in Europe, Via Sistina has won five Group One titles, including the Cox Plate.
Though a potential trip to Sha Tin was considered for Via Sistina, connections decided to rest her ahead of an Australian autumn campaign targeting the Group One Queen Elizabeth Stakes in Sydney next April. A return to Europe has been ruled out as she continues to focus on Australian racing.
Yulong will also field Zarir, trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, in the Hong Kong Cup. However, the team acknowledges the challenge of facing the formidable Romantic Warrior. Zarir’s long-term plans include a move to Australia to target the prestigious Cups races.