Giavellotto's Triumphant Run in the Hong Kong Vase

The Longines Hong Kong Vase, a prestigious Group 1 race, witnessed a thrilling upset as Giavellotto, a British-trained horse, stormed to victory, ending a 12-year drought for British horses in the competition. Trained by Marco Botti and expertly ridden by Oisin Murphy, Giavellotto displayed a remarkable turn of foot to secure a two-and-a-half-length win, leaving the racing world in awe.

Giavellotto's Path to Victory

Giavellotto's journey to this momentous win was a testament to his potential and the team's dedication. The five-year-old had demonstrated consistent improvement throughout the season, accumulating three Group 2 wins at York and Newmarket. Despite a commendable third-place finish in the Irish St Leger behind the dominant stayer Kyprios, the drop in distance for the Hong Kong Vase proved no obstacle. His performance in the Irish St Leger, where he ran with plenty of credit, highlighted his stamina and ability to compete against top-tier horses. Oisin Murphy's confident riding played a crucial role in navigating the challenging race conditions and seizing the opportunity for victory.

Navigating the Race

The race unfolded with some tense moments. Murphy initially settled Giavellotto in mid-division. However, a momentary obstruction caused Giavellotto to drop back to third from last. The incident prompted a flurry of concern among fans, but Murphy's quick thinking allowed him to recover the lost ground by skillfully guiding Giavellotto through a perfect gap that appeared, before driving him to the front at the furlong pole. With a final surge of speed, Giavellotto secured his astonishing victory over Dubai Honour, another British runner. This victory marked Murphy's first Group 1 win at this prestigious meeting after nine previous attempts. He noted after the race that the temporary loss of position actually “served to fill him up a little bit” preparing him for the final sprint.

Team Giavellotto: A Collaborative Effort

Giavellotto's success was not solely the result of the horse's exceptional talent; it was a collective achievement. Marco Botti, the trainer, acknowledged Oisin Murphy's crucial role in identifying the Hong Kong Vase as a potential target after his performance in the Irish St Leger. Botti attributed the horse's maturity and fitness to the win, highlighting Giavellotto's unique ability to travel effectively, stating that “these type of horses don't come around very often.” The team's strategy to keep Giavellotto fresh for the race by limiting his starts to six throughout the year proved pivotal.

Francesca Franchini's Pride

The breeder of Giavellotto, Francesca Franchini, was visibly emotional after the race, a testament to the years of dedication and passion poured into nurturing the horse's potential. The team's unwavering belief in the horse and their meticulous planning ultimately contributed to this incredible victory. This victory was a highlight for Botti, his first top-level success since 2017, further illustrating the significance of Giavellotto's win. The win was also celebrated by Maureen Haggas whose horse Dubai Honour finished second despite facing several challenges throughout the race.

A Historic Win for Britain

Giavellotto's victory marked a significant milestone for British horse racing, ending a 12-year drought in the Hong Kong Vase. The win resonated throughout the British racing community, signifying a return to top-tier competitiveness on the international stage. Oisin Murphy's skillful riding and the excellent training of Marco Botti were instrumental in this exceptional outcome, showcasing British expertise in the global horse racing arena. This win underscored the remarkable potential of British-trained horses and cemented Giavellotto's place in racing history. The post-race interviews with Murphy and Botti eloquently captured the collective joy and relief, a moment of shared celebration for all involved and British racing fans worldwide. The win has catapulted Giavellotto into the spotlight, promising an exciting future in the horse racing world and potentially earning him selection for the coveted Sheema Classic.

A Day to Remember at Sha Tin

The Longines Hong Kong International Races showcased exceptional athleticism and strategic brilliance, with multiple races producing nail-biting finishes and memorable performances from both local and international runners. Romantic Warrior's dominant win in the Hong Kong Cup, Ka Ying Rising's victory in the Hong Kong Sprint, and Voyage Bubble's triumph in the Hong Kong Mile all contributed to the electrifying atmosphere. However, Giavellotto's story stands out, not only for its remarkable victory but also for the triumph it represents for British racing. The resilience, skill, and collaboration that led to this victory are a testament to the enduring spirit of competition and the power of unwavering dedication.