Hong Kong racing continues to captivate with emerging stars lighting up the scene. The Four-Year-Old Classic Series has introduced a trio of promising contenders, while other young talents, such as Fast Network, are making an impression. Among these rising names, Ka Ying Rising has dominated the season, securing multiple Group 1 victories. Lower down the ranks, horses like Sky Jewellery and Crossborderpegasus have also demonstrated their potential. Another exciting prospect in this group is The Boom Box, a three-time winner trained by Chris So.
The Boom Box is set to make his return to the track in the Class 3 S.H. Ho And CW Chu Alumni Handicap (1400m) at Sha Tin on April 6. Carrying a rating of 75, he will once again take on the challenge of top weight as he seeks to bounce back from a narrow defeat last month. His trainer acknowledges his steady progress, noting that despite a tough run in his previous outing, he remains competitive and continues to develop. As a four-year-old with only a handful of races under his belt, his potential is still unfolding.
Recognized for his electrifying late runs and ability to weave through the field, The Boom Box has quickly become one to watch. This weekend, he will have the support of champion jockey Zac Purton, starting from barrier two and carrying 135 pounds. His previous performances include three victories and a commendable third-place finish, proving his consistency even under challenging conditions. With a favorable draw this time, there is confidence in his ability to perform strongly.
Among the contenders challenging The Boom Box is Keefy, a six-year-old from Frankie Lor’s yard. Keefy recently posted his first top-three finish of the season, surprising many with a strong effort. His trainer is hopeful that the gelding can now find consistency in Class 3, having previously scored a win in Class 2 under a lighter weight. Matthew Poon takes the ride as they aim for another solid showing.
Lor also has Voyage Samurai entered in the Class 2 Faculty Of Education Alumni Handicap (1600m). With four wins and five second-place finishes from just a dozen starts, this consistent performer benefits from wearing blinkers, which have enhanced his focus. His trainer believes that a slightly longer trip in the future could suit him well, though the current small field should play to his strengths. Derek Leung takes the reins for this assignment.
In Class 4 action, Lor sends out Mr Cool, who makes his first appearance at Sha Tin after an encouraging debut at Happy Valley. The three-year-old had a strong finish in his first start, despite a less-than-ideal break from the gates. With the longer straight at Sha Tin, his trainer expects an improved performance, hoping the extra distance will work in his favor.
Meanwhile, Ka Ying Rising continues his remarkable season, with preparations now focused on the prestigious HK$22 million G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m) set for April 27. Fresh off his latest victory in the G2 Sprint Cup at Sha Tin, the unbeaten sprinter remains on course for his final race of the season. His trainer reports that he has come through his last run in great shape and will stick to his usual routine leading up to the big event.
Among those frequently finishing behind Ka Ying Rising is Helios Express, a horse that has played the role of runner-up on multiple occasions this season. Jockey Hugh Bowman praised his efforts, recognizing the challenge of facing such a dominant competitor. He noted that the gelding performed particularly well with some moisture in the ground, which helped his action, and continues to develop as a racehorse.
While preparing for their upcoming engagements, several leading riders, including Bowman, Purton, Karis Teetan, and Andrea Atzeni, will head to Australia on April 5. Bowman’s primary focus will be on Rivellino in the G1 ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) at Royal Randwick. Reflecting on Rivellino’s performance in the Golden Slipper, Bowman believes the longer trip at Randwick will suit him better and is optimistic about his chances of securing a major win.
The action-packed 10-race program at Sha Tin on April 6 is set to begin at 12:45 pm with the Class 5 Graduate School Alumni Handicap (2000m). Racing fans can expect another thrilling day as Hong Kong’s top horses and riders battle for supremacy.
