Those with long memories of British racing, observing LONGINES Hong Kong International Races trackwork at Sha Tin this week, may have mused about a connection between the names of the trainer of Sir Dancealot – Europe’s flag bearer in the G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint – and the work rider who has been harnessing the speedster’s energy all week.
And they would be right to do so. Working together are David Elsworth – arguably Britain’s finest dual purpose handler (flat and jumps) and Ryan Holley, the lad whose father Paul guided Elsworth-trained horses to many a jump-race success during some memorable years.
After Thursday’s morning trackwork, Elsworth – who will be 79 next week – found himself besieged by a gaggle of press, some of whom might have been a quarter his age. Now with a round-shouldered gait he appeared to welcome the pause as he headed along the Sha Tin walkway in the direction of breakfast.
With his easy charm, witty observations flowed. The trainer darted from subject to subject including anecdotes about the great grey steeplechaser Desert Orchid, and the popular flat stayer Persian Punch – both much loved Elsworth-trained horses for whom the word ‘legend’ can be attached without debate.
Plus, Elsworth reminded all that he was the original trainer (and owner) of Cape Of Good Hope who become a high class sprinter, and round the world winner, after his sale to Hong Kong.
Later he discussed the Holley connection. “I trained the father and his son, and Ryan has been involved with my yard since before he left school,” he said.