At Sha Tin Racecourse on Sunday, attention will centre on the progressive Nautical Force, who steps up in trip for the Group 3 Queen Mother Memorial Cup Handicap (2400m) following a debut performance that marked him as a horse of considerable promise.
The British-bred import announced himself in style when surging from well off the pace to land a Class 2 contest over 1800 metres, cutting through a seasoned field with a decisive late burst. Settled near the rear turning for home, Nautical Force (124lb) produced a sharp turn of foot under Karis Teetan, who retains the ride, to weave through traffic and score with authority.
Teetan, reflecting on that success, credited both the horse’s ability and trainer John Size’s measured approach. The instructions had been simple—settle, conserve energy, and deliver late—and the execution proved faultless. The rider believes there is more to come, particularly as the gelding gains experience.
Size, never one to overstate, admitted the performance exceeded expectations, especially given the demands of winning first-up over 1800 metres against hardened opposition. He noted that the horse’s light frame—tipping the scales at just 977lb—made a low-weight entry advantageous, though future assignments will require different solutions.
Sunday’s assignment presents a new challenge, stretching out to 2400 metres. Yet there is encouragement in Nautical Force’s previous effort at the trip, having finished a close fourth in the King George V Stakes at Royal Ascot last season. That run suggested both stamina and resilience, qualities that could prove vital in a race of this nature.
Teetan remains unconcerned about the distance, emphasising the importance of rhythm and patience. If the horse can be switched off early and produced at the right moment, he is expected to be competitive in what shapes as a deep and testing field.
Among the opposition, stablemate Sky Jewellery (119lb) adds further intrigue. The four-year-old returned from a lengthy absence with a strong victory over 1600 metres recently and now steps into Class 2 company. Size reports him to be in good order, with the lighter weight another factor in his favour.
Frankie Lor’s Stormy Grove (135lb) looms as a major contender. The gelding enjoyed an excellent Four-Year-Old Classic Series, highlighted by victory in the Hong Kong Classic Cup and a commendable third in the Hong Kong Derby. Carrying top weight on his Class 2 debut, he brings proven quality and consistency.
Rider Harry Bentley, who has partnered Stormy Grove throughout his Hong Kong career, is optimistic about his chances. While the return to a shorter trip is seen as suitable, the emphasis will again be on patience—allowing the horse to settle before producing his finishing effort.
Sunday’s 11-race programme at Sha Tin begins at 12.45pm with the Class 5 Celebrating Our Shared Champion Spirit Handicap over 1200 metres, setting the stage for a competitive afternoon of racing highlighted by the Queen Mother Memorial Cup.
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