'Heavyweight champion of the world' Romantic Warrior sets up big-race tilts with easy win at Sha Tin

Jockey James McDonald labelled Romantic Warrior “the heavyweight champion of the world” after a knockout comeback victory from the Hong Kong superstar in the Group 2 BOCHK Jockey Club Cup at Sha Tin on Sunday.

The win will be used by connections as a springboard to a hat-trick bid in the Group 1 Longines Hong Kong Cup next month before potential tilts at the Saudi Cup and the Dubai World Cup on dirt next year.

Romantic Warrior was a cut above his rivals on Sunday, travelling smoothly through the race before being asked to settle the contest with two furlongs to go. His acceleration was instant and McDonald was able to ease him down in the final stages to win by four and a quarter lengths.

McDonald said: “He's like a prize fighter, isn't he? Heavyweight champion of the world. You never really get nervous on him because he's so good. He's an incredible horse. I love him to bits and he's very good.

“He’s just a phenomenal horse, I'm so proud of him. He's come back in terrific order, he never lets you down and he's just got this amazing will to win. It's something I've never come across.”

Danny Shum, who trains the six-year-old for owner Peter Lau, said Romantic Warrior would be vaccinated on Monday to allow for potential international trips next year. His performance in the Hong Kong Cup next month will be key if ambitious plans to tackle dirt for the first time are to go ahead.

“James told me the horse is still improving, but I told him [the Hong Kong Cup] will be two different stories. The field will be totally different – much, much, much stronger than today. You see the entries – wow, so many good horses. 

“It will be tough for him and the team not only in the next few weeks, but the next six months. If he runs good [in the Hong Kong Cup], the owner is really keen to go overseas. He deserves to have a try. It’s once in a lifetime.”

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