A memorable afternoon unfolded at Sha Tin as Pray For Mir powered his way to a career-defining win in the Group 3 Lion Rock Trophy Handicap. The gelding’s determined performance handed trainer Cody Mo a milestone moment, marking his first-ever success at Group level. It was a notable feat for a rising star in the Hong Kong training ranks, and one that reflects the steady upward momentum of Mo’s career.
Mo, who began his journey with the Hong Kong Jockey Club as a work rider back in 1994, has steadily built his name in the racing world. With roots that include working under famed names like Tony Cruz, David Ferraris, and Benno Yung, his trajectory has been defined by experience, persistence, and passion. Now overseeing a stable of 68 horses, Mo has already amassed 38 wins this season, showcasing his growing influence on the circuit.
Pray For Mir, one of three four-year-olds in the race, made his move early from gate eight to take the lead. With seasoned competitors like Red Lion and Chancheng Glory on his heels, the stage was set for a thrilling finish. But as the field turned for home, the gelding, expertly piloted by Matthew Chadwick, showed grit and heart, pulling away in the final strides to hold off Chancheng Glory and finish half a length in front.
The win was all the more special given the competitive field, which included Group 1 winner Beauty Eternal and recent Champions Mile victor Red Lion. While Red Lion faded late, Pray For Mir—racing off a much lighter weight—capitalized on the opportunity, driven forward by a clever front-running ride and his natural tenacity.
Chadwick, reflecting on the ride, highlighted the gelding’s honesty and ability to respond under pressure. With just one win but five placings to his name this season, Pray For Mir has often been the nearly-horse, but on this occasion, everything clicked. The result boosts his earnings to over HK$9 million and marks a notable milestone since his transfer from Australia, where he was already a dual winner.
Mo credited the win to team effort and strategy, noting Chadwick’s precise control of the pace and the decision to keep the horse fresh heading into the race. With a clear understanding between trainer and jockey—dating back to their time working together under Tony Cruz—the synergy clearly played a key role in their success.
Notably, four-year-old horses have now taken four of the last five editions of the Lion Rock Trophy, continuing a clear trend of rising talent dominating the mile contest. Following the likes of Galaxy Patch and Beauty Eternal, Pray For Mir joins an elite group of recent winners.
The victory clocked in at a time of 1:33.83, sealing a day to remember for both Mo and Chadwick, whose partnership has already yielded ten wins this season. Their shared history and mutual respect added extra meaning to the win, underscoring just how much can be achieved through hard work and long-term collaboration.
Hong Kong racing now shifts to Happy Valley for the midweek meeting on Wednesday, June 4, but for now, all eyes are on Pray For Mir and the inspiring journey of his trainer, Cody Mo, whose Lion Rock Trophy triumph marks the start of what promises to be an exciting chapter.
