Hong Kong champion Romantic Warrior will be feted for his record-breaking feats in the Middle East during a special ceremony – “Welcome Home, Our Global Champion – Romantic Warrior” – at Standard Chartered Day on Sunday (25 May) at Sha Tin.

Romantic Warrior had three starts in an outstanding Middle East campaign, posting a record-breaking win in the G1 Jebel Hatta (1800m) and then twice finishing close seconds in the G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt) and the G1 Dubai Turf (1800m), taking his career earnings to a world record-extending HK$214.70 million.

Trainer Danny Shum said Romantic Warrior is all good after returning Hong Kong.

“He is currently enjoying his holiday and he is a happy horse now. He ate well and I am pleased with his condition now,” Shum said.

Shum expressed his gratitude to owner Peter Lau and the stable team for their efforts overseas and in Hong Kong.

“I have to thank Peter for his support and his bold attempt to take his horse in the global stage. I have also to thank my team, whether they were working in the Middle East or in Hong Kong, for their dedicated efforts to ensure everything is smooth. It was a good team work and full credit to them,” said Shum.

“Romantic Warrior will make his reappearance in next season’s G2 BOCHK Jockey Club Cup (2000m) and then will defend the G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (2000m) title in December. After that we will decide whether he will travel again,” Shum added.

James McDonald, who will ride at the Standard Chartered Day on Sunday, will reunite with Romantic Warrior on Sunday as the horse parades under him to greet racing fans at the “Welcome Home, Our Global Champion – Romantic Warrior” ceremony which will start at 3:10pm on Sunday.

To celebrate the return of Romantic Warrior, “Gift at Races” will offer a 25% discount on the designated Romantic Warrior series products on that day at Sha Tin Racecourse shops only.

Standard Chartered Day is highlighted by the running of the HK$13 million G1 Standard Chartered Champions and Chater Cup (2400m). This year’s line-up features top class Great British stayer Dubai Honour, Hong Kong’s four-time G1 winner Voyage Bubble who will bid for the Triple Crown glory, BMW Hong Kong Derby victor Cap Ferrat and G3 Queen Mother Memorial Cup Handicap winner Bundle Award. There will be 11 races on Sunday and the first race will be run at 12:30pm.