Wellington prepares for Centenary Sprint Cup challenge
Jamie Richards is eager to see what Wellington can do in the HK$13 million Group 1 Centenary Sprint Cup (1200m) on Sunday, January 28 at Sha Tin.
No longer the kingpin of Hong Kong’s sprinting ranks – a crown which is now worn by his current sparring partner Lucky Sweynesse – Wellington kicked off his seven-year-old season with a pair of competitive third placings, indicating that even as a veteran, the earner of HK$67.13 million still has the vim and vigour to mix it with his younger adversaries.
“He’s going to have to be at the top of his game with Lucky Sweynesse in there but we’re looking forward to next weekend,” Richards said.
Wellington is a four-time Group 1 winner. The 2021/22 Hong Kong Champion Sprinter stepped out for a barrier trial on the dirt under jockey Hugh Bowman on Tuesday over 1200m. He clocked 1:10.71s as he overhauled Apache Pass for first spot.
“He’s just had a bit of an easy time since the Hong Kong Sprint. The plan was to always give him a maintenance trial here and he seems to be in good shape,” Richards said.
Lucky Sweynesse heads the Centenary Sprint Cup entries. Courier Wonder, Duke Wai, Flying Ace, Lucky With You, Packing Treadmill, Sight Success, Son Pak Fu, Super Wealthy, Taj Dragon, Victor The Winner and Whizz Kid are also entered to run.
Wellington has had two starts for Richards, most recently in the HK$26 million Group 1 Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) last month. He was formerly trained by Richard Gibson, who departed Hong Kong’s ranks at the conclusion of last term.
“He’ll just do a little bit of work a couple of times next week and that should have him where he needs to be,” Richards said.