Patch Of Stars continued his upward trajectory with a commanding performance in Sunday’s HK$4.2 million Sha Tin Vase (1200m), adding a valuable Group Three success to an already impressive racing record.
Patch Of Stars Sha Tin Vase win.
The talented son of All Too Hard has developed into one of Hong Kong racing’s most consistent sprint performers, and his latest triumph further highlighted the quality that has carried him from a sought-after sale graduate to a proven stakes winner.
Purchased for $800,000 at the 2023 Ready to Run Sale at Karaka after being offered by Riversley Park, Patch Of Stars has provided a significant return on investment for owner Mr KM Yeung. The victory was the seventh of his 17-race career, while his earnings have now climbed to HK$11.85 million, equivalent to approximately NZ$2.53 million.
Drawn favourably in gate one, Patch Of Stars enjoyed an economical journey before producing a decisive finishing effort under jockey Karis Teetan. The strong early tempo allowed the gelding to settle comfortably before unleashing his trademark acceleration in the closing stages.
Trainer Manfred Man’s assistant, Wing Ip-hang, praised both the horse and the ride after the race.
“He was really good,” said Ip-hang. “The horse is super honest and the jockey rode him really well.
“The pace was good for the horse today. Previously he was struggling a bit in the back, but he had a good draw today so he performed really well.
“He’s a good horse in the morning, he relaxes well. I ride him every day and he’s been getting better and better. He’s still young, and I think he can improve. I was a little bit confident watching. I’m really happy.”
Teetan was equally pleased with the outcome and felt the conditions of the race suited the gelding perfectly.
“When I looked at the form, I thought he was going to be a nice ride in this race with the weight and with the draw,” Teetan said.
“I actually got a smooth passage today.
“He was very well through the week when I worked him, and when I pressed the button today, he responded really well. All the credit to Manfred and his team and thanks to the owners for supporting me.”
The Sha Tin Vase success strengthens Patch Of Stars’ reputation among Hong Kong’s leading sprint horses and suggests there may be further improvement to come from the progressive performer. His combination of tactical speed, professionalism and consistency has made him a notable success story from the Ready to Run Sale pathway.
While attention remains on his future targets, the result also provides another significant boost for graduates of the Karaka sale, which has produced numerous performers capable of succeeding at the highest levels of international racing.
The 2026 Ready to Run Sale is scheduled to take fplace at the Karaka Sales Centre on 18 and 19 November, where buyers will once again search for the next emerging talent capable of following a path similar to Patch Of Stars.
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