Sha Tin is bracing for a blockbuster start to the 2025/26 Hong Kong racing season this Sunday (7 September) as French ace Alexis Badel prepares to reunite with his trusted partner Beauty Waves in the HK$3.72 million Class 1 HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup Handicap (1200m).
After an off-season riding stint in Japan, Badel returns refreshed, confident, and hungry to spoil the party for Hong Kong Horse of the Year Ka Ying Rising, who bids for a historic 13th straight victory.
Alexis Badel Hong Kong Season Opener Boosted by Japan Success
The 35-year-old Frenchman, a crowd favourite since joining Hong Kong full-time in the 2020/21 season, believes his rewarding summer stint in Japan has sharpened both his technique and mindset.
“It was a great confidence booster,” Badel said. “I had fun, it was refreshing, and I had great support there. It was a good experience in Japan.”
Badel rode 12 winners from 69 rides in Japan, including a Listed success aboard Mario Road in the Meitetsu Hai (1800m, dirt) at Chukyo. Sponsored by Northern Farm, he gained valuable insights into a different racing culture where tactics, pressure, and pace demanded versatility.
Beauty Waves Ready for High-Stakes Clash at Sha Tin
This Sunday, all eyes will be on Beauty Waves, who shattered the Happy Valley track record last start, clocking 1m 08.10s over 1200m on 16 July.
Last year, the Irish-bred speedster finished runner-up to Ka Ying Rising in this same race before claiming the HK$4.2 million Group 3 National Day Cup Handicap (1000m) under Badel. A smooth trial win last month, where Beauty Waves cruised home in 1m 09.89s over 1200m, suggests he’s primed for another big performance.
“He seems to be in good form,” Badel noted. “He’s carrying a light weight and looks well. We’ll take our shot, even against Ka Ying Rising.”
Ka Ying Rising Targets History in HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup
Trainer David Hayes’ superstar Ka Ying Rising — crowned Hong Kong Horse of the Year (2024/25) — headlines the field as he attempts to become the first horse in history to win the HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup twice.
Unbeaten in eight starts last season, including a clean sweep of Hong Kong’s Group 1 sprints, Ka Ying Rising shoulders a top weight of 135lb but remains the horse to beat.
The race also features a stellar supporting cast, including Lucky Sweynesse, Lucky With You, Victor The Winner, Copartner Prance, Raging Blizzard, Magic Control, Bottomuptogether, Divano, Gorgeous Win, and Harmony N Blessed.
My Wish Shines in Trial Ahead of Group 3 Celebration Cup
While Sunday’s opener takes centre stage, another rising star made headlines on Tuesday (2 September) when My Wish impressed in a sharp barrier trial at Sha Tin.
Trained by Mark Newnham and ridden by Luke Ferraris, the five-year-old clocked 1m 10.24s over 1200m on the dirt as he builds towards the HK$4.2 million Group 3 Celebration Cup Handicap (1400m) on 28 September.
Crowned Hong Kong’s Most Improved Horse (2024/25), My Wish ended last season rated 105 after four wins, including his career-defining success in the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m). He closed the term with a brave fourth behind Red Lion in the HK$24 million G1 FWD Champions Mile (1600m).
Newnham is delighted with the gelding’s progress:
“He’s strengthened up and matured over the break. The trial showed he’s improving between seasons, and he’s more confident in his work. He’ll have another trial before the Group 3.”
Ferraris, fresh off a career-best 47 wins last season, echoed the trainer’s optimism:
“He’s strengthened up well and feels sharper. His manners in the barriers have improved, and he finished the trial really nicely. He’ll definitely build on this.”
A Thrilling Start to the 2025/26 Hong Kong Racing Season
With Alexis Badel seeking redemption, Beauty Waves hunting a breakthrough victory, Ka Ying Rising chasing history, and My Wish preparing for his Group 3 return, Sha Tin’s 2025/26 Hong Kong season opener promises drama, speed, and unforgettable moments.
Racing fans can expect a fiery battle on Sunday, setting the stage for an action-packed season ahead.
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For race details, schedules, and official updates, visit the Hong Kong Jockey Club.
