Kamel Chehboub‘s confidence is soaring as his three-year-old gelding, Horizon Dore, gears up to challenge Romantic Warrior in the Longines Hong Kong Cup, Hong Kong’s richest race. Chehboub, owner of the French contender, is optimistic about clinching a significant Group One win at the Sha Tin marquee meeting, a feat France last achieved nine years ago.
Horizon Dore’s journey this season has been nothing short of impressive. Despite initial setbacks, the gelding quickly ascended the ranks with four victories in five starts over 2,000m. His winning streak began with the Listed Prix Ridgway at Longchamp and was followed by his first Group Two win in the Prix Eugene Adam at Saint-Cloud. His remarkable performance continued with victories in both the Group Three Prix du Prince d’Orange and Group Two Prix Dollar at Longchamp.
Although Horizon Dore faced challenges at the British Champion Stakes, finishing third, Chehboub believes the gelding had valid excuses. The deep ground at Ascot and an unusual pulling during the race hindered his performance, but Chehboub remains confident in Horizon Dore’s capabilities.
The Chehboub family’s experience with Group One success, recently with Ace Impact in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, bolsters their confidence. Unlike Ace Impact, Horizon Dore was gelded before his racing debut, with jockey Mickael Barzalona guiding him from the advantageous inside barrier in the upcoming HK$36 million contest.
Chehboub highlights the benefits of gate one, emphasizing Horizon Dore’s swift gate speed and adaptability to any race pace. The decision to choose the Hong Kong Cup over the Japan Cup was strategic, allowing the gelding more recovery time post-Ascot.
Trainer Patrice Cottier echoes Chehboub’s optimism. He notes Horizon Dore’s swift recovery after losing some weight upon arrival in Hong Kong, and is pleased with the gelding’s calm and refreshed state.
The Hong Kong International Races hold a special place for French trainers, with Andre Fabre having celebrated his first win with Borgia in the 1999 Hong Kong Vase. Fabre is aiming for a third victory in the race with Junko, targeting the mile-and-a-half distance as an even playing field for his contender.
As anticipation builds for the Hong Kong Cup, Horizon Dore stands poised for a historic win, potentially marking a triumphant moment for French horse racing on the international stage.
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