What the jockeys had to say after the HK QE II Cup
Neorealism and Joao Moreira have combined to give Japan victory in the QE II Cup in Hong Kong on Sunday.
Expertly ridden by globetrotting hoop Moreira, Neorealism hit the front after about 1100m and then managed to hold on for a gutsy victory, despite the best efforts of Pakistan Star, and Werther, who produced a sprint late.
The United States, trained by Robert Hickmott, had its moment in the sun early when it made the running, but faded when Neorealism took control of the race.
Here is what the jockeys had to say post race:
1st – Neorealism – Joao Moreira
“He didn’t really jump as well as we expected, we thought he was going to be able to lead but as he jumped a little bit slow I had to give him a chance to get cover behind horses. The pace slowed so much on the back straight so I had to pop out and get going. He got going but he wasn’t at his top speed, so I was always confident that once we turned for home he was going to finish off strongly, which he did.”
2nd – Pakistan Star – Silvestre de Sousa
“He ran a very good race, the pace was just too slow early. He got left behind when they sprinted but finished off so well.”
3rd – Werther – Hugh Bowman
“He acquitted himself well. It was very slow in the middle stages and that didn’t suit him. I thought the sprint home would but the Japanese horse just got a break on us.”
4th – Blazing Speed – Neil Callan
“He ran with credit. It was always going to be a messy race. I settled into a nice position but then when Joao made his move, I let him go and took the trail but thenWerther came around me and the leader kicked on. They were just too good for me.”
5th – The United States – Brett Prebble
“He tried hard, he’s a marvellous old horse. Coming off heavy tracks on to a fast track, it probably stung him a little bit. He’s been a good soldier for the boss.”
6th – Secret Weapon – Zac Purton
“He ran well.”
7th – Dicton – Olivier Peslier
“The pace was a bit slow for him and softer ground would be his preference. He took time to pick up when the pace lifted.”
8th – Designs On Rome – Tommy Berry
“We’ve seen the best of him. He’s had a great career but now he’s coming very close to the end.”