Racing
Romantic Warrior dominant to claim fourth Hong Kong International Cup
Hong Kong superstar Romantic Warrior continues to re-write the record books having recorded an effortless victory to claim his fourth straight Hong Kong International Cup at Sha Tin on Sunday.
The Danny Shum-trained gelding was clinical, settling third before coasting away from his rivals in the straight to post a 1 ¾ length victory ahead of Bellagio Opera and Quisisana.
Both winning jockey and trainer were understandably emotional post-race, and spoke of their love for Romantic Warrior who on Sunday claimed his 11th Group 1 success.
"He's so special, he's so special," winning jockey James McDonald said.
"He's just a freak. I don't know what to say. I love him."
It was Romantic Warrior's second largest winning margin to win a Hong Kong International Cup, having won the 2022 renewal by 4.5 lengths.
Trainer Danny Shum was a relieved man after Romantic Warrior's success despite him going into the race as an overwhelming favourite.
"It's a lot of pressure and a big relief," Shum said.
"He's such an amazing horse, such a good, kind, lovely horse.
"He always give me a lot of happiness. Not only me, my stable, my family and Hong Kong - racing fans or not racing fans they all love Romantic Warrior.
"He's part of my family actually. I love him. My son says I love Romantic Warrior more than him."
Romantic Warrior suffered two narrow defeats earlier this year in the Saudi Cup and the Dubai Turf.
It's been well documented connections felt the Hong Kong Champion wasn't his best for that travel and subsequently had fetlock surgery in May.
This campaign connections feel like is back to his best and are again considering international travel plans for 2026.
"The plan is always made by the owner, Peter," Shum said.
"Because Peter has a very good vision. We all trust him. When he said, 'Danny go to Saudi,' I go to Saudi. He said, 'Danny stay in Hong Kong,' I stay in Hong Kong because he has real wisdom and determination."
"His vision is really good so we are a good team owner, jockey, trainer, and stable team. So I trust Peter a lot."
Romantic Warrior's history making fourth straight Hong Kong International Cup victory in part happened thanks to the swift actions of track staff who tackled a pitch invader in the straight mere seconds prior to the Hong Kong International Cup field reaching that section of the track.
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