David Hayes is quietly optimistic that Rubylot may be edging back towards his best as he prepares to take on a high-class international field in Sunday’s Group 1 FWD QEII Cup (2000m) at Sha Tin.
The Australian handler, long established in Hong Kong’s upper ranks, believes the six-year-old is building momentum again after an interrupted campaign that has masked his true level of ability.
Rubylot’s credentials at the top level are not in doubt. Last season’s Hong Kong Classic Cup winner over 1800 metres, he confirmed his staying prowess when chasing home Voyage Bubble in the Group 1 Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup, shaping as a genuine contender among the territory’s elite middle-distance performers.
There were encouraging signs earlier this term as well. On his return in September, Rubylot finished strongly for fifth in the Celebration Cup over 1400 metres, a distance short of his optimum. That effort hinted at a productive campaign ahead before a pair of disappointing runs and a subsequent setback interrupted his progress.
Hayes has been measured in his assessment of the gelding’s recent efforts since returning in March, suggesting they do not reflect the horse’s true capabilities.
“I think his season is about to start,” he said, indicating that longer-term targets remain firmly in focus. The Queen Mother Memorial Cup and a return to the Champions & Chater Cup headline those ambitions, with Sunday’s assignment serving as a significant stepping stone.
A recent trial performance behind the highly regarded Romantic Warrior has offered further encouragement, particularly over a mile, where Rubylot travelled strongly and shaped as though a step back up in trip would suit.
Sunday’s contest, however, presents a formidable challenge. Among the opposition are established Group 1 performers including Hong Kong Vase winner Sosie and Neom Turf Cup scorer Royal Champion, ensuring a deep and competitive field.
Yet Hayes believes conditions may finally play in Rubylot’s favour. The 2000-metre distance and anticipated tempo are expected to suit his racing style, which relies on patience and a late surge.
“He likes a good pace over 2000 metres and he’s a horse you must ride cold,” Hayes explained. “If you ride a race on him, he gets very one-paced. But if you ride him cold, he finishes really well.”
With Hugh Bowman booked to ride, the plan is straightforward: settle towards the rear and rely on Rubylot’s finishing burst to make late ground in the Sha Tin straight.
It is a tactic that has served the horse well in the past, and one Hayes hopes will allow him to close the gap on some of the world’s best middle-distance runners.
FWD Champions Day at Sha Tin on 26 April promises a compelling showcase of international talent, with the QEII Cup once again at its centrepiece.
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