It has been the lull before the storm in international racing. By normal standards, last weekend was 'quiet' on the racetrack as the build-up continues to this week's Kentucky Derby in the United States, and the 2,000 and 1,000 Guineas on the other side of the pond in Britain.
It has been the lull before the storm in international racing. By normal standards, last weekend was 'quiet' on the racetrack as the build-up continues to this week's Kentucky Derby in the United States, and the 2,000 and 1,000 Guineas on the other side of the pond in Britain.
Throw in Hong Kong's Champions Mile at Sha Tin, in which arguably the world's best racehorse Able Friend lines up, plus the Prix Ganay at Longchamp -- both these races take place this Sunday -- and it is easy to see that we are about to witness a series of races that will shape the season ahead.
As a prelude of sorts, Hong Kong's Queen Elizabeth II Cup at Sha Tin last Sunday was an absolute thriller. The winner, Blazing Speed, fulfilled a long-held ambition for trainer Tony Cruz, who had always wanted to win this prestigious event.
There was no questioning the depth of the race. Australian challenger Criterion came to Hong Kong off the back of a big win in Randwick's Queen Elizabeth II Stakes. Red Cadeaux, the gallant runner-up in Sydney, also showed up in Hong Kong, but this was one of his rare lack-lustre runs. He finished 11th.
In a blanket finish for the minor placings, Japanese runner Staphanos was able to snatch second on the inside from Criterion, who was a nose ahead of the reliable Designs On Rome in fourth.
Blazing Speed is an out-and-out stayer by Hong Kong standards, and his next outing is likely to be one of the local staying tests, the Hong Kong Champions and Chater Cup at Sha Tin.
On the same card on Sunday, Richard Gibson sent out a 1-2 (the quinella) in the Sprint Cup, Dundonnell and Gold-Fun, which is a major feat in a feature race in Hong Kong. The winner was ridden by Stephane Pasquier, the runner-up by Olivier Peslier.
In Australia, Godolphin trainer John O'Shea has described Painted Firetail, his recent two-year-old winner at Randwick, as a "filly who could be very special."
O'Shea explained that he had wanted to find a suitable race at the end of the autumn for the daughter of Lonhro. "I know it was right at the end of the carnival, but the opposition was strong enough and she came through it well.
"I plan to run her next at Scone on May 16. It is a good chance to get some black type. Then hopefully we can put her away for the spring," he added.
