Blazing Speed Wins the APQEII Cup
This year’s Audemars Piguet QEII Cup once again boasted a very nice international field including reigning Hong Kong Horse of the Year Designs on Rome, Red Cadeaux, and Queen Elizabeth Stakes winner Criterion. However, it was not one of the main contenders that stole the show. Instead it was the always consistent, yet never spotlighted Blazing Speed (GB) who crossed the line first in the 2000m G1 contest.
Set off at 15-1, Blazing Speed settled midfield in the field of 11 and cruised easily under the very easy early tempo set by Same World. Neil Callan guided the eventual winner into clear running at the top of the stretch, and under steady urging opened up two lengths on the field at the finish. Japanese invader Staphanos finished a very game 2nd after a troubled trip, Criterion and Designs on Rome rounded out the top finishers.
Prior to the APQEII Cup, Dundonnell stormed home to win the G2 Sprint Cup over a very classy field that included G1 winning Gold-Fun and recent Al Quoz Sprint runner up Peniaphobia.
Following up from his recent retirement, champion Ambitious Dragon was given a farewell ceremony to his cheering fans at the beginning of the day. He will spend his retirement in New Zealand at the same farm as his dam, Golden Gamble.
Ambitious Dragon's farewell ceremony
Farewell, Champion
The home stretch of Sha Tin Racecourse
Blanket finish of the day's first race. Win Chance would edge away with the victory.
Ultimate Winners warming up for the day's 4th race.
Dundonnell winning the G2 Sprint Cup
Red Cadeaux headed toward the paddock for the APQEII Cup
Blazing Speed preparing to be saddled for the APQEII Cup.
Neil Callan and Blazing Speed returning the winner's circle
Beauty Only and Giant Treasure continue their 4 year old rivalry in a 1400m handicap race