Connections of Starlust are optimistic that Sha Tin’s flat track will suit their Breeders’ Cup-winning sprinter as he aims for the Longines Hong Kong Sprint this weekend.
The three-year-old produced a career-best performance last month at Del Mar, coming from last to first to secure the Grade One Turf Sprint over five furlongs for trainer Ralph Beckett. That marked his 10th start of a remarkable season, which began in January at Meydan.
Owners Jim and Fitri Hay have opted to extend Starlust’s campaign with a bid against top-tier competition, including local standout Ka Ying Rising, an eight-time winner from 10 starts.
Proven Resilience
Starlust completed a canter on Sha Tin’s all-weather track on Wednesday, and Alex Cole, racing manager for the Hays, expressed admiration for the horse’s consistency and enthusiasm despite a demanding schedule:
“A Breeders’ Cup winner running anywhere is exciting. This is his 11th run this year, spanning Dubai, France, England, America, and now Hong Kong. He shouldn’t still be thriving, but he loves his job, and while he does, we’ll enjoy it with him.”
“We’ve had to supplement him, so a top-three finish would be fantastic. He’s proven himself over five furlongs around a bend, and the flat track should suit him well.”
Field Adjustment in the Hong Kong Cup
In other news, the Hong Kong Cup has lost a key contender with the withdrawal of Massive Sovereign due to a hind leg injury. The four-year-old son of No Nay Never, who previously raced as Broadhurst for Aidan O’Brien, claimed the 2024 Hong Kong Derby but will now miss the 10-furlong feature.
As the weekend approaches, Starlust’s bid to cap his stellar season with another international victory adds intrigue to an already exciting Hong Kong International Races meeting.