Chris So hopes rising star Hong Lok Golf (127lb) can eventually ascend to elite company after the gelding’s impressive victory in the HK$3.12 million Class 2 Cheung Sha Handicap (1650m) at Happy Valley on Wednesday night (11 June).
Making his Happy Valley debut after stringing together five wins from six Sha Tin starts, the Grunt four-year-old dug deep under Harry Bentley to overhaul Steps Ahead (123lb) by a short head in 1m 38.44s.
Having started the season on a mark of 52 in Class 4, Hong Lok Golf showed trademark application – and versatility – in adapting to Happy Valley’s unique contours to triumph at Class 2 level for the second time in two starts.
“I was worried about coming to Happy Valley for the first time, but I thought the horse could be flexible – he can lead, sit off the pace or come from behind – so it was worth the try,” So said.
“Every time he gives you a surprise – he’s such a tough horse and never gives up, he always hits the line strongly. I hope he can be a Group 1 horse in time.”