Trainer Frankie Lor could hardly have scripted a better birthday weekend. A Sha Tin double on Saturday (14 February) marked his 60th in style, and now the veteran horseman turns his attention to Thursday’s feature — the Year Of The Horse Cup — determined to keep the momentum rolling.
The Year Of The Horse Cup headlines the 11-race card at Sha Tin Racecourse on 19 February, and Lor will be represented by two live chances in the HK$3.12 million Class 2 contest over 1600 metres: Regal Gem (119lb) and Voyage Samurai (121lb).
For Lor, born in the Year of the Horse himself, the occasion carries a touch of personal symmetry. But sentiment will quickly give way to ambition, particularly with Regal Gem — a progressive four-year-old who is being aimed at loftier spring targets.
The gelding narrowly missed claiming the overall title in the DBS x Manulife Million Challenge after finishing fourth in a strong Class 2 sprint at Happy Valley Racecourse. Since then, Lor has shifted his focus firmly toward the Four-Year-Old Classic Series, with the HK$26 million BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) on 22 March looming large.
“Regal Gem will not run in the Hong Kong Classic Cup,” Lor explained. “But if the opportunity arises, the owners would like to try and run in the Derby. The Year Of The Horse Cup over 1600 metres is a good stepping stone, and if he runs well, he may go straight to the Derby.”
Year Of The Horse Cup a Crucial Derby Stepping Stone
Regal Gem’s only previous attempt at a mile came under testing circumstances at Happy Valley, where he was posted wide without cover after jumping from a difficult gate. Despite the energy-sapping trip, he was not beaten far — a run that hinted at deeper reserves.
His most recent outing over 1200 metres reinforced that view. “His recent run suggests he now needs more ground,” Lor said. “I believe he can stay further. Hopefully he finds cover this time.”
Frenchman Alexis Badel takes over aboard Regal Gem, while regular partner Derek Leung reunites with Voyage Samurai — a horse Lor feels is primed to strike.
“I was pleased with his recent trial,” Lor noted. “He was scratched last time because of a minor issue, but he’s fully recovered and showed eagerness. He has a big stride, so he’ll likely take the initiative or race closer to the lead.”
Voyage Samurai’s tactical versatility could prove valuable in what shapes as a searching contest.
The Year Of The Horse Cup, scheduled as Race 6 at 3pm, has drawn a deep field including Encountered (135lb), Beauty Eternal (130lb), Gorgeous Win (130lb), Packing Angel (125lb), Soleil Fighter (125lb), Talent Ambition (120lb), Stunning Peach (118lb) and Top Dragon (118lb).
Thursday’s Year Of The Horse Raceday begins at 12.30pm with the Class 5 Kung Hei Handicap (1200m), setting the stage for an afternoon where Classic aspirations may take sharper focus.
For Lor, the narrative is clear. A birthday celebration has passed; now comes the pursuit of something even bigger — and the Year Of The Horse Cup could well determine how bold those Derby dreams become.
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