Goliath Horse Star-Studded Field for Longines Hong Kong Vase

Goliath Horse, the honored Group One Longines Hong Kong Vase (2,400m), scheduled for December 8 at Sha Tin, is set to feature one of the strongest international fields in nearly a decade. Among the star-studded lineup, Francis-Henri Graffard‘s Goliath could stand out as the highest-rated overseas competitor at this marquee meeting since A Shin Hikari’s 129-rated attempt to defend his Hong Kong Cup crown in 2016.

Goliath Horse is currently rated at 125 and has emerged as a dominant force on the global stage. His best performance this year was an extraordinary win in the Group One King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot, where he outclassed a high calibre field that includes Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe heroine Bluestocking.

However, Goliath horse’s participation in the Hong Kong Vase hinges on his performance in this weekend’s Group One Japan Cup (2,400m) in Tokyo. Another contender awaiting results from the same horse race is Fantastic Moon, a two-time Group One winner who also seeks a spot at Sha Tin.

Foreign-trained Goliath Horses have secured victory in the past five editions of the Hong Kong Vase, a trend likely to persist this year. This year’s 11-strong international contingent includes eight Group One winners from six jurisdictions, signalling another strong challenge to local hopes.

Renowned Irish trainer Aidan O’Brien brings two formidable entries: Luxembourg, last year’s Hong Kong Cup runner-up, and Continuous, a top-tier stayer. Luxembourg, who missed out on glory by a short head against Romantic Warrior in last year’s richest Hong Kong race, aims to go one better in his potential swansong over the extended distance.

Australia will also have a shot at Vase Glory with Without A Fight, the 2022 Melbourne Cup champion. After a third-place finish in the Champions Stakes at Flemington, he aims to become the first Australian to claim the Hong Kong Vase.

France boasts a strong presence, led by Marquisat, trained by André Fabre, who hopes to replicate the success of Junko in last year’s race. Joining him are the seasoned Iresine and Goliath.

For Great Britain, Giavellotto and the William Haggas-trained Dubai Honour are set to make their marks. Dubai Honour, a familiar face at Sha Tin, will test his staying prowess over 2,400 meters for the first time.

Japan, which has won three of the past five editions of the Vase, will send two notable challengers in Stellenbosch and Pradaria, both expected to strengthen an already stellar lineup.

Local contenders Five G Patch, La City Blanche, and Ka Ying Generation will represent Hong Kong. Ensued remains on standby as a reserve runner.

With a deep and diverse field featuring champions from around the world, Longines Hong Kong Vase promises to deliver a thrilling spectacle, cementing its reputation as a highlight of the international racing calendar.