Romantic Warrior cemented his status as a Hong Kong racing legend with a stunning third victory in the HK$40 million G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (2000m) at Sha Tin. The six-year-old etched his name into the record books with a dominant display that left his international rivals in his wake, confirming his place as Hong Kong’s foremost equine ambassador.

Guided to perfection by James McDonald, Romantic Warrior cruised to a one-and-a-half-length victory over Japan’s Liberty Island. The packed Sha Tin crowd erupted in celebration as McDonald rose in his irons to salute the grandstands, a gesture befitting the champion’s historic achievement.

Breaking cleanly from the gates, Romantic Warrior settled comfortably in fourth under McDonald, allowing Irish filly Wingspan to dictate the early pace. Japanese contender Tastiera tracked in second but proved to be the only real challenge as the race unfolded. Turning for home, Romantic Warrior unleashed an electrifying burst of speed, effortlessly pulling clear. Liberty Island overtook Tastiera for second in the final strides, but the winner was already unassailable.

“That was unbelievable. I’m so proud of this horse,” McDonald said. “He’s remarkable, and Danny (Shum, trainer) and his team have done an amazing job. The Japanese horses gave it their best shot, but he’s simply the best. Forget the rest. He’s a horse of a lifetime, and today felt like stepping up for the winning kick for the All Blacks. It’s a ‘pinch-me’ moment.”

Trainer Danny Shum shared in the triumph, reflecting on the dedication of his team. “He was confident and full of energy,” Shum said. “I stayed in the stables the whole time, focusing on preparation. I work hard, and my team has done an incredible job.”

Romantic Warrior’s dominance extends well beyond Hong Kong. In October 2023, he captured Australia’s prestigious G1 Cox Plate (2000m). Earlier this year, he ventured to Japan, where he triumphed in the G1 Yasuda Kinen (1600m) in Tokyo. With this latest victory, Romantic Warrior surpassed Golden Sixty as the highest-earning horse in racing history.

Looking ahead, the champion’s next challenge awaits in February, with a planned appearance in the lucrative G1 Saudi Cup (1800m) on dirt.

“He’s the best, but now we aim for an even bigger challenge,” Shum said. “We’re heading to Dubai and Saudi Arabia. It’s been 25 years since I last went to Dubai as an assistant trainer for Mr. Ivan Allan. This will be a new experience, but I’ll ensure the team is in top form.”

Owner Peter Lau also embraced the challenge, backing the decision to experiment with dirt racing. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Shum explained. “We’ve tested him on all-weather with a pacifier, and he handled it well. We’re ready to take on the world.”

Romantic Warrior’s historic triumph in the LONGINES Hong Kong Cup is a testament to his unparalleled ability, leaving fans eagerly anticipating his next chapter on racing’s grandest stages.