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Yearlings parading ahead of the Premier Yearling Sale at Oaklands Junction

Eight Supplementaries Boost Premier Yearling Sale Catalogue to 814 Lots

Carlisle Race Results 16 February action at Carlisle Racecourse during Carlisle Race Results 16 February meeting

Johnny’s Jury Leads Winners on Carlisle Eight-Race Card, 16 February

Sunlight Power galloping at Sha Tin ahead of Queens Silver Jubilee Cup

Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup: Yiu Eyes Bold Showing from Sunlight Power

Toulouse Race Cards 17 February race meeting overview

Eight-Race Programme Scheduled in Toulouse on 17 February

Wolverhampton Race Cards 17 February nine-race programme

A Thrilling Nine-Race Evening Unfolds at Historic Wolverhampton Racecourse

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Warwick Race Cards 18 February midweek race lineup at Warwick Farm

A Curated Assembly of Thoroughbreds to Contest Seven Midweek Races at Warwick Farm

A distinguished midweek programme under the auspices of the Australian Turf Club is set to unfold at Warwick Farm Racecourse on Wednesday, 18 February 2026. The seven-race card will showcase a carefully selected assembly of thoroughbreds across sprint and middle-distance events, offering a rigorous examination of speed, stamina, and tactical precision.

Prize money for the meeting ranges from $60,000 to $100,000, reflecting the high calibre of competition, and drawing attention from leading trainers and racing enthusiasts alike.

The card opens with the Paulele First Yearlings Handicap at 2:55 PM over 1,400 metres, carrying a total stake of $100,000. Among the entries, Nordic Viking, Gus The Great, and Sarapo are expected to play prominent roles, with Alphard, Autumn Surf, and Satirically adding further depth to the field and making the race highly competitive.

At 3:30 PM, the Racing and Sports Plate will cover 1,100 metres for $60,000. Contestants include Inner Gold, Lorax, Wolf Gap, Farcolo, and Gone To Gowings, providing a lively sprint that is likely to showcase tactical agility and acceleration for all runners.

The Ole Kirk @ Vinery Stud Handicap begins at 4:05 PM over 1,000 metres, also offering $60,000. Entrants include Kimberley Secrets, Straand Beauty, Nazwah, The Escape, and Silencio Porfavor, forming a field that blends speed and experience and is expected to produce a fast, decisive finish.

At 4:40 PM, the Kia Ora Bloodlines to Headlines Handicap will stage a 1,400-metre race for $60,000. The line-up features Zulfiqar, Fiddlers Green, Crossbow, Mirzann, Puerto Banus, and Tarzing, with horses required to balance stamina and a strong finishing kick over the middle distance.

The Hyland Race Colours Handicap at 5:15 PM will cover 1,600 metres for $60,000. Leading entries include Tazima, Lancelot Du Lac, Clyde, Mornington Pier, Decorum, and Sirius Legend, offering a blend of tactical variety and endurance likely to challenge each horse to maintain a strong pace.

The penultimate event, the Asahi Super Dry Handicap, is scheduled for 5:50 PM over 2,140 metres, also for $60,000. Horses expected to contest include Maupassant, Impunity, Line of Fire, Stylebender, and Dr Evil, each aiming to demonstrate staying power and strategic racing over the extended distance.

The meeting concludes with the TAB Handicap at 6:25 PM over 1,400 metres, with prize money of $60,000. Contestants Heat Missile, Mamushka, Vienna Vixen, Long Legs, and Autumn Dream are set to close the day, promising a competitive and fast-paced finale.

Seven competitive races, featuring top-class three-year-olds and older thoroughbreds, will unfold midweek at Warwick Farm, with stakes of up to $100,000 under the Australian Turf Club’s stewardship. The Warwick Race Cards 18 February will give racing enthusiasts and industry observers a concise overview of key early-season performers.

 

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz

Yearlings parading ahead of the Premier Yearling Sale at Oaklands Junction

Eight Supplementaries Boost Premier Yearling Sale Catalogue to 814 Lots

The Premier Yearling Sale has received a timely lift with eight supplementary entries confirmed, swelling the final catalogue to a robust 814 lots ahead of next month’s showcase at Oaklands Junction.

In a move that mirrors the successful approach trialled earlier this season, the additional yearlings add further depth and commercial appeal to an already strong line-up. The supplementaries include progeny of leading stallions such as Ghaiyyath – whose son topped last week’s Classic Yearling Sale at Riverside – along with offspring by Written Tycoon, Stay Inside, Tagaloa, Home Affairs, Alabama Express, Farnan and St Mark’s Basilica.

Yulong and Twin Hills Stud will each present two of the newly added lots, while Newgate Farm, Coolmore Stud, Balius Farm and Blue Gum Farm will offer the remaining entries, ensuring broad representation from some of the country’s most respected operations.

The supplementaries will be integrated in catalogue alphabetical order, with lot 807 to go through the ring on Day 1 and lots 808 through 814 set for Day 2.

Supplementaries Add Depth to Premier Yearling Sale

James Price, Victorian Bloodstock Manager for Inglis, expressed satisfaction with how preparations for the Premier Yearling Sale are progressing and welcomed the opportunity to strengthen the offering.

“The addition of supplementary lots to our select yearling sales at Classic and Premier is a new move for us, but it worked well at Classic and our expectation is that these horses will be well received at Premier,” Price said.

He noted that the original catalogue had already drawn excellent local and interstate support through the spring, with strong engagement from prospective buyers in the lead-up to inspections.

“Interest in our pre-sale inspection trips this week has been very good and we are looking forward to welcoming vendors and buyers to Oaklands next week,” he added.

The sale’s recent record on the track has only fuelled anticipation. Over the past 12 months, graduates have enjoyed notable success, including two Group 1-winning juvenile colts last season in Vinrock and Nepotism. Further enhancing its reputation, each of the past three winners of The Everest to have been offered at public auction are Premier graduates — a statistic that underlines the sale’s growing influence.

With momentum building and inspections underway, the Premier Yearling Sale will take place at Oaklands Junction in Melbourne from March 1 to 3, promising three days of elite young thoroughbreds and renewed opportunity for breeders, vendors and buyers alike.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz.

Carlisle Race Results 16 February action at Carlisle Racecourse during Carlisle Race Results 16 February meeting

Johnny’s Jury Leads Winners on Carlisle Eight-Race Card, 16 February

Racing over hurdles and fences took place across an eight-race programme at Carlisle Racecourse on Monday, 16 February, where competitive fields contested novice and handicap events throughout the afternoon schedule.

Proceedings began at 1:05PM with the Conference & Events at Carlisle Racecourse Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4), where JOHNNY’S JURY secured victory under Jonathan Burke for trainer Jamie Snowden, scoring for owners Blazing Blues RC Hurlers On The Ditch. Kilnesare Flight finished second, beaten 7 lengths, while Knomorediamonds filled third place.

The 1:35PM Racing TV Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 3) followed, with HELLO JUDGE delivering success for jockey Danny McMenamin and trainer Ann Hamilton, carrying the colours of owner Mr Ian Hamilton. Hardy du Seuil finished second, while Here Comes Georgie completed the placings.

At 2:05PM, the Come Racing at Carlisle in 2026 Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) saw HE’S ON FIRE, ridden by Mr P. W. Mullins and trained by W. P. Mullins for owner Mrs S. Ricci, win convincingly. The Dog Thief finished second, 20 lengths behind, while Passing Diamond claimed third.

The 2:35PM Book Your Raceday Hospitality Now Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 3) produced victory for SOUND AND FURY, guided by Ben Jones for trainer Ben Pauling and owners Foxtrot Sound and Fury. Hudson de Grugy followed home 2¼ lengths behind in second, with Saint Davy third.

In the 3:05PM Carlisle Conditional Jockeys’ Novices’ Limited Handicap Hurdle (Class 5), SCAIRP DUBH prevailed under Jack Power for joint trainers Joel Parkinson and Sue Smith, representing the Stack Partnership. Wind Your Neck In finished second, beaten 2¼ lengths, while Do Ye Wanna secured third.

The 3:35PM Sandy Molloy Memorial Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) saw HE’S BRESILIAN, ridden by Sean Quinlan for trainer Jedd O’Keeffe and owners Fine Claret Racing & Mr T. S. Ingham, move clear to win, with Azahara Palace, 6 lengths behind in second and Vampire Slayer in third.

At 4:05PM, the Watch Racing TV Now Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 4) produced the closest finish of the afternoon as TRAC, partnered by Brian Hughes for trainer Micky Hammond and owners Randall Orchard & Partner, edged Wolfburg by a Head, while Canunclecani finished third.

The meeting concluded at 4:35PM with the Next Raceday Sunday 8th March Mares’ Handicap Hurdle (Class 5), where KEPPEL QUEEN, ridden by Sean Bowen for trainer Olly Murphy and owners Deva Racing JH, drew clear to score, with It’s Maisy finishing second, 9½ lengths behind, and Smile Back completing the frame.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.

Sunlight Power galloping at Sha Tin ahead of Queens Silver Jubilee Cup

Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup: Yiu Eyes Bold Showing from Sunlight Power

Ricky Yiu is daring to hope for another prominent finish in Sunday’s HK$13 million G1 Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (1400m), believing Sunlight Power can build on his recent Group 1 effort and earn a share of the spoils at Sha Tin. While the assignment is formidable, the seasoned trainer feels his stable representative is thriving at the right time.

Yiu, already a Group 1 winner this season through Voyage Bubble’s success in the LONGINES Hong Kong Mile, is realistic about the scale of Sunday’s challenge. Standing in the way is the exceptional Ka Ying Rising, widely regarded as the world’s leading sprinter. Even so, Yiu is quietly confident his six-year-old can acquit himself with distinction in the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup.

“He’s doing really, very well,” Yiu said during morning trackwork. “He’s holding his condition perfectly.”

The gelding has returned from a stint at Conghua in robust order, a factor Yiu believes could prove crucial.

“I think he’s a horse that enjoys himself in Conghua. I saw his gallop this morning and I couldn’t fault him,” he added.

Sunlight Power arrives on the back of a creditable fourth in the Stewards’ Cup over a mile, finishing three and a half lengths behind Romantic Warrior. That effort, his second at the elite level this season, elevated his career earnings beyond HK$14 million and confirmed he belongs in top company.

Proven at the Trip in the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup

Sunday’s Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup will be his third attempt at the highest level this term. Last season he was narrowly denied in the FWD Champions Mile, finishing third and just half a length adrift of Red Lion, one of several familiar adversaries he meets again.

Though campaigned predominantly over 1600 metres in recent months, Sunlight Power boasts four victories at 1400 metres — Sunday’s distance — and Yiu feels the return to seven furlongs could suit. His overall record of six wins, three seconds and six thirds from 30 starts underlines admirable consistency.

Earlier this campaign, he produced a career-best Group performance when runner-up in the Jockey Club Mile under Hollie Doyle. Yiu is prepared to forgive his below-par effort in the Hong Kong Mile that followed, preferring instead to focus on his resurgence in the Stewards’ Cup.

“I’ll be happy if we finish second, third or fourth,” Yiu said. “It was a good run last time. The one before — forget about it. Hopefully he can continue to perform.”

The Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup forms the second leg of the Hong Kong Speed Series. Ka Ying Rising heads the field after landing the Centenary Cup Sprint and is attempting to keep a clean sweep intact before the series concludes with April’s Chairman’s Sprint Prize.

Also lining up in the 10-runner contest are Copartner Prance, Galaxy Patch, Helios Express, Lucky Sweynesse, Packing Hermod, Patch Of Theta, Raging Blizzard and Red Lion. With proven milers clashing against specialist sprinters, the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup promises a fascinating tactical examination over Sha Tin’s sweeping 1400 metres.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz.

Toulouse Race Cards 17 February race meeting overview

Eight-Race Programme Scheduled in Toulouse on 17 February

Racing officials will stage an eight-race programme in Toulouse on 17 February, featuring a mixed card of flat and jumping contests across distances ranging from 1,200m to 3,500m. The meeting will offer competitive prize money across the afternoon schedule and will bring together runners from regional and national stables in a varied programme designed for different race types and age groups.

The opening contest, Prix Fineau, will begin at 11:51 over 3,500m with a purse of €24,000. Entries are expected to include Le Palois, Matignon Leon, Prince Marvel, and Ivan du Berry, all of whom will tackle the demanding jumping course to open the meeting.

At 12:23, runners will line up for the Prix de Grazac, also staged over 3,500m for €24,000. The race will feature expected starters Ludicrous, Mrs Robinson, Rome Antique, and Bienbathy, with stamina likely to prove decisive over the extended trip.

Speed will come to the forefront at 12:55 in the Prix de Jolimont, a 1,200m sprint carrying €19,200 in prize money. Hello Carel, Qamran, Hatrasna Fal, and Fire Dragon are among those anticipated to compete in what should be one of the quickest events on the card.

Jump racing will resume at 13:27 with the Prix Saint-Georges, run over 3,500m for €28,000, the richest contest of the afternoon. Entries such as Journee d’la Femme, Lovely Dino, Risk of Love, and Astorius are expected to take part in a competitive staying event.

The programme will then return to the flat at 14:12 with the Prix Paul Duboscq, contested across 1,600m for €19,200. The projected field includes Nebur, Rêve du Fraisse, Valtrada, and Canena, all set to contest the mile distance.

At 14:47, the Prix de la Ville de Colomiers will be run over 1,400m with prize money of €15,400. Marys Not Contrary, Draco, Wathab, and Full Gain are among those expected to appear in this competitive sprint-mile contest.

The penultimate race, the Prix de la Ville de Portet-sur-Garonne, will follow at 15:22 over 1,400m for €19,200, with anticipated participants including Salalah, Jugando, Zakosha, and Mangaken, adding further depth to the afternoon’s flat programme.

The meeting will conclude at 15:57 with the Prix de Lagrange, run across 2,000m for €12,800. Expected runners include Jarki, Rafiki Spa, Amity, and Eye of the Tiger, providing a final middle-distance test to close proceedings.

The eight races scheduled will provide a balanced mix of sprint, middle-distance, and jumping contests, ensuring varied competition across the afternoon as stables prepare runners for the spring phase of the season.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.

Wolverhampton Race Cards 17 February nine-race programme

A Thrilling Nine-Race Evening Unfolds at Historic Wolverhampton Racecourse

The historic and vibrant Wolverhampton Racecourse will command a nine-race evening programme on Tuesday, 17 February, showcasing a blend of sprint and middle-distance contests. Runners aged three and older will compete over distances ranging from five furlongs to 1 mile 5 furlongs 219 yards, with prize money reaching £10,000. The card promises a display of both experienced campaigners and emerging talent in a lively, competitive setting.

The programme will open with The Midnite Next Generation Handicap Stakes (Class 6) (Div I) at 4:22 PM. Ten runners will contest 1 mile 5 furlongs 219 yards for a £6,000 prize. Key entries include Annandale, Moon Over The Sea, and Lednikov, each expected to make a strong impression in this opening test.

Division II of the same Class 6 handicap follows at 4:57 PM over the identical distance and prize. Nine runners are scheduled to compete, with Queensland Boy, Pride of Nepal, and Rosco Rogers among the entries likely to set the pace in this mid-afternoon challenge.

At 5:30 PM, The Create Your Builders Handicap Stakes (Class 5) will cover 6 furlongs 20 yards with six runners vying for £7,100. White Umbrella, Water of Leith, and Darn Hot Time are expected to feature prominently in this fast-paced sprint contest.

The 6:00 PM race is the Maiden Fillies’ Stakes (Class 4) over 1 mile 1 furlong 104 yards. Seven three-year-old fillies will compete for a £10,000 prize, with Bintkend, Safe Idea, and Echo Valley likely to shine in this showcase for emerging talent.

A five-furlong 21-yard sprint at 6:30 PM will feature The Midnite Handicap Stakes (Class 6). Nine runners, including Forever Noah, Captain Kinsella, and Some Nightmare, will challenge for the £6,000 prize in what promises to be a lively short-distance contest.

The Read Meg Nicholls’ Blog Handicap Stakes (Class 4) will take place at 7:00 PM. Seven three-year-olds will cover 5 furlongs 21 yards for £9,500, with Baker Blue, Fortification, and Grey Horizon among the anticipated frontrunners in this evening sprint.

At 7:30 PM, ten runners will contest The Safer Racing Handicap Stakes (Class 5) over 1 mile 142 yards for £7,100. Expected entries include Age of Baroque, Mr Nugget, and Eagle Day, providing a competitive middle-distance challenge.

The evening concludes with two divisions of The Make the Move to Midnite Handicap Stakes (Class 6). Division I at 8:00 PM will feature nine runners covering 1 mile 1 furlong 104 yards with a £6,000 prize, including Imola, Appetiser, and Charming Fellow. Division II at 8:30 PM will also feature nine runners over the same distance and prize, with Galaxy Wonder, Tiger Beetle, and Ana Emaraaty expected to compete, closing the night on a high note.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz

Market Rasen Race Cards 17 February meeting preview

Market Rasen Ready for Lively Seven-Race National Hunt Card on 17 February

A richly competitive National Hunt programme will unfold at Market Rasen Racecourse on Tuesday, 17 February, where a seven-race meeting will run from 1:30PM through to 4:47PM, bringing together hurdle and steeplechase contests before closing with a National Hunt Flat race.

The fixture will gather developing novices and experienced handicappers across trips demanding stamina and fluent jumping, with broadcast coverage again provided by Racing TV as connections continue preparations toward upcoming spring fixtures.

The card will open at 1:30PM with the Class 4 Juvenile Maiden Hurdle, staged over 2m 164y and offering £10,000 in prize money for eight runners. Flagstone, partnered by Toby Wynne, Knighton under Craig Nichol, and Law Degree with Tom Midgley will aim to make positive early impressions in a contest designed to showcase emerging young hurdlers.

At 2:00PM, nine runners will contest the Class 4 Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle over the same 2m 164y trip for prize money of £11,000. Charisma Cat, ridden by Tom Bellamy, Getawhisky with Tristan Durrell, and Khrisma under Nico de Boinville will be among those seeking to progress in novice company over the Lincolnshire circuit.

The 2:30PM race will feature the Class 5 Novices’ Handicap Steeple Chase run across 3m 79y, where six runners will compete for a purse of £7,500 in a stamina-demanding test. Bobalot with Robert Dunne, Quickasican ridden by Callum Bewley, and Alltalknoaction under Jamie Hamilton will attempt to handle the extended distance and secure improvement over fences.

A sizeable field of twelve mares will assemble at 3:02PM for the Class 4 Mares’ Handicap Hurdle, covering 2m 4f 187y and carrying prize money of £11,000. Railway Bell under Jonathan Burke, Mermaids Cave with Alex Chadwick, and Just Her Type partnered by Tom Broughton will feature among those aiming to deliver consistent efforts over the middle-distance journey.

The afternoon will continue at 3:37PM with a Class 4 Handicap Hurdle run over 2m 7f 64y, again offering £11,000 and drawing eleven runners for one of the meeting’s most testing races. Campaign Trail with Tom Bellamy, Tzarmix guided by Jonathan Burke, and El Saviour under Tom Cannon will look to stay the trip strongly as the contest unfolds.

Attention will then return to fences at 4:12PM for the Class 5 Handicap Steeple Chase staged over 2m 3f 103y, with £9,500 on offer for six runners. Windsurfer, partnered by Mr Charlie Case, Tom Creen with Jonathan England, and Tramuntana under Sean Bowen will seek to deliver solid performances late in the programme.

The meeting will conclude at 4:47PM with the Class 5 Junior National Hunt Flat Race over 2m 164y for prize money of £4,000 and featuring five runners. Jessmarvel ridden by Gregor Walkingshaw, Le Breton with Ryan Mania, and On Jack partnered by Robert Dunne will attempt to produce promising early displays in the closing contest for younger prospects.

Performances across the Market Rasen Race Cards 17 February will provide useful pointers as the National Hunt season progresses, with several runners expected to build toward forthcoming spring engagements following this midweek fixture.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.

Newbury Race Cards 17 February runners competing at Newbury Racecourse

Newbury Stages a Compelling Six-Race National Hunt Programme on Tuesday

The Berkshire track at Newbury Racecourse will stage a six-race National Hunt fixture on Tuesday, 17 February, bringing together novice chasers, hurdlers and handicap performers across a range of distances during a competitive afternoon and evening programme.

The meeting will offer both developing and established runners the opportunity to compete in conditions likely to place equal emphasis on accurate jumping and stamina throughout the card.

The opening contest at 2:15 PM will be THE CHASING EXCELLENCE NOVICES’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) (GBB RACE) over 2m 92y, carrying prize money of £17,500 and attracting four runners. Old Cowboy (Freddie Mitchell), Leading Choice (Sean Houlihan), Personal Ambition (Ben Jones) and Quebecois (Harry Cobden) will aim to gain further experience over fences in what is expected to be a tactical opening event.

At 2:45 PM, THE MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) (GBB RACE) will bring together twelve runners over 2m 69y for £15,000 in prize money. Back On Track (David Bass), Fouroneohfever (Kielan Woods), Galashiels (James Bowen), Giantsgrave (Harry Skelton) and Global Fortune (Richie McLernon) will headline a large field seeking breakthrough success over hurdles.

The third race at 3:20 PM will stage THE MARES’ NATIONAL HUNT NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) over 2m 4f 118y, again offering prize money of £15,000. Bobby’s Nelson (Sean Houlihan), Swindon Village (David Bass), Boultydoolin (Ben Jones), Dante’s Rocco (Paddy Hanlon) and Mymilkman (Freddie Gordon) will contest a race expected to test stamina as well as hurdling accuracy.

The feature event at 3:55 PM will be THE DECADE OF DELIVERY HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) over 2m 7f 91y, with £20,000 on offer and nine runners expected to start. Saint Palais (Harry Bannister), Brave Kingdom (Harry Cobden), Good Friday Fairy (Sam Twiston-Davies), Happy And Fine (Kielan Woods) and Major Fortune (Harry Skelton) will compete in one of the afternoon’s most demanding staying contests.

At 4:30 PM, THE LIVE YOUR BEST FINANCIAL LIFE HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) over 2m 4f 118y will offer £11,000 in prize money, with twelve runners set to line up. One Eye On Vegas (Charlie Hammond), De Kingpin (Ben Jones), Glance of Glory (Freddie Keighley), Close Combat (Murray Dodd) and Cast’s Tasha (Toby McCain-Mitchell) will take part in what is expected to be a closely run handicap.

The meeting will conclude at 5:05 PM with THE CONDITIONAL JOCKEYS’ MARES’ HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) over 3m 57y, again worth £11,000, where Springs A Girl (Freddie Keighley), Harmony Heights (Fern O’Brien), Kosasiempre (Murray Dodd), Katie’s Melody (Megan Fox) and Star of Honour (Elliott England) will contest the longest race of the afternoon in a final test of endurance.

The Newbury Race Cards 17 February programme will combine novice contests and competitive handicaps, providing opportunities across several divisions while presenting a balanced jumps schedule for participants and racegoers.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz

Top Dragon competing at Sha Tin ahead of The Year Of The Horse Cup

Top Dragon Poised to Capitalise on Lightweight Edge at Sha Tin

Chris So will look to strike swiftly in The Year Of The Horse Cup when his improving four-year-old Top Dragon returns to action at Sha Tin on Thursday (19 February), hoping to convert Classic promise into tangible reward.

The gelding lines up in the HK$3.12 million Class 2 feature over 1600 metres just 18 days after a meritorious fifth in the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Mile, the opening leg of the Four-Year-Old Classic Series. It was a run that left connections quietly encouraged rather than disappointed.

Reflecting on that effort, So felt the margin told only part of the story. “I think it was a fine performance and the owner was happy. At least the horse proved he was competitive over 1600 metres,” he said. “He was crowded near the 150-metre mark and, without that, he might have finished third or even closer. The winner was very strong, and I didn’t think we could beat him that day.”

That race, won by Little Paradise, saw Top Dragon emerge with credit against the very best of his generation. Now, in The Year Of The Horse Cup, circumstances appear more favourable.

Light weight a key factor in The Year Of The Horse Cup

Unlike the set-weights conditions of the Classic Mile, Thursday’s contest is framed by ratings, with the band set between 105 and 80. Top Dragon, rated 84, is allotted just 118lb — a significant pull at the weights against several accomplished rivals.

“Top Dragon has continued to improve,” So explained. “He pulled up well after his last run and has maintained good form. He’s eating well and holding his condition. He’s honest, easy to train and the kind of horse every trainer would like in the stable.

“Maxime told me after the last race that we should go again. We all hope he can take another step forward.”

French ace Maxime Guyon, fresh from a productive stint in Qatar that included four winners on 14 February — highlighted by the G1 H.H. The Amir Sword aboard Lippo De Carrere — retains the partnership.

Connections have opted to bypass the Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m), but the HK$26 million 149th BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) on 22 March remains a live possibility. So is taking a pragmatic approach.

“If he runs well on Thursday, I’ll discuss with the owner whether we target the Derby,” he said. “Maxime will stay on. The owner is very supportive and we’ll always put the horse first before making a final decision.”

The Year Of The Horse Cup, scheduled as Race 6 at 3pm, has drawn a competitive field including Encountered (135lb), Beauty Eternal (130lb), Gorgeous Win (130lb), Packing Angel (125lb), Soleil Fighter (125lb), Voyage Samurai (121lb), Talent Ambition (120lb), Regal Gem (119lb) and Stunning Peach (118lb).

Thursday’s 11-race programme at Sha Tin begins at 12.30pm with the Class 5 Kung Hei Handicap (1200m), but much of the attention will centre on whether Top Dragon can translate Classic-level form into a decisive statement in The Year Of The Horse Cup.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz.

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Preview of Warwick Race Cards 18 February, including race times, distances, and key thoroughbreds for the seven races.
The Premier Yearling Sale catalogue has grown to 814 lots following the addition of eight supplementary entries, strengthening an already
Complete coverage of Carlisle Race Results 16 February featuring winners and placings from Carlisle Race Results 16 February card.
Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup contender Sunlight Power is primed for a bold showing at Sha Tin, with Ricky Yiu confident
Complete race-by-race preview of Toulouse Race Cards 17 February featuring race times, distances, prize funds and expected contenders.
Full Wolverhampton Race Cards 17 February details including all nine races, runners, distances, and prize money.
Complete preview coverage of Market Rasen Race Cards 17 February including race times, runners and distances for the National Hunt
Newbury Race Cards 17 February features six competitive National Hunt races with full race timings and prize details.

Chris So will look to strike swiftly in The Year Of The Horse Cup when his improving four-year-old Top Dragon

Complete recap of all races from Musselburgh Race Results 15 February including winners and finishing margins.
The Year Of The Horse Cup at Sha Tin sees Frankie Lor saddle Regal Gem and Voyage Samurai, with Derby
Full preview of Wolverhampton Race Cards 16 February including race times, prize money, distances, and expected runners.
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