For those of us who are already experiencing withdrawal symptoms from the end of the flat turf season, the December 8th meeting at Hong Kong provides a welcome boost. The Hong Kong Vase sees The Fugue bidding to gain compensation for her last gasp defeat in the Breeders’ Cup.
Jockey William Buick was reportedly in tears after being pipped on the line by Ryan Moore on Magician. I don’t think that Buick did anything wrong in the race, although he may have been in front a bit longer than ideal. It was just a brilliant performance from Magician who had threatened to be in this class when he ran away with the Irish Guineas.
The track, distance and going should all suit The Fugue and she stands out as the class performer. With all due respect to the majority of the other European raiders, they could all still run in handicaps whilst The Fugue is in a different league. As much as I admire the Melbourne Cup exploits of Dandino, Dunaden, Red Cadeaux, Mount Athos and Simenon, they should not be able to live with Gosden’s filly.
The possible exception is Galileo Rock who was placed in the English and Irish Derby and the St Leger at Doncaster. The Epsom Derby form produced one of the worst records in recent memory but it’s hard to fault this tough colt who also likes a fast surface. What he appears to lack is a finishing kick but I could see him reach the frame if he is positively ridden.
The Hong Kong Mile also looks destined to fall into European hands with the brilliant Moonlight Cloud standing head and shoulders above her rivals. Sky Lantern and Gordon Lord Byron have both put up superb performances this season but Moonlight Cloud has been simply phenomenal. She first caught my eye when flashing home behind Black Caviar at Ascot and she has now established herself as a top class mare in her own right.
Richard Hannon Senior has announced that he is handing over to Junior on January 1st and would dearly love to go out with a winner. Sky Lantern has had a long season but won well at Newmarket last time out and you have to respect her chance. I’m not often tempted to do a double but 7-4 seems generous about both horses as I feel they should both be around even money.
Hong Kong Vase – The Fugue 7-4 Bet365
Hong Kong Mile – Moonlight Cloud 7-4 Bet365
Double – The Fugue @7-4, Moonlight Cloud@ 7-4 Bet365
