Harbouring modest expectations with Russian Emperor ahead of the HK$5.35 million G2 Sha Tin Trophy Handicap (1600m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (15 October), Douglas Whyte hopes the dual Hong Kong Champion Stayer can lay the foundations for a fruitful campaign with a solid performance.
With a focus on the HK$118 million LONGINES Hong Kong International Races on 10 December, and a clear appreciation of Russian Emperor’s need for much longer trips, Whyte still expects his regally-bred gelding to show the benefits of a good spell.
“He’s summered well, he’s actually come up probably the best this season than he has the past two seasons. For unknown reasons, I’m not sure, he’s really enjoying doing what he’s doing. He’s good in his action and more so he’s very, very healthy – he looks amazing,” Whyte said of the four-time Group 1 winner.
“I sat on him on Tuesday morning (10 October) on the turf and, albeit there was a bit of give in the ground, he felt amazing. He worked really well.
“Sunday’s race is too short, there is no expectation. He’s starting off his campaign, so I would just like him to run home and finish off and I’ll be very happy.”