Ka Ying Rising’s dominance continues
Reacting to Ka Ying Rising’s effort to post a 17th consecutive victory to match the winning streak of Silent Witness from 2002 to 2005, Hayes believes the superstar galloper can threaten Sha Tin’s 1400m record of 1m 19.92s – jointly held by Encouraging and Packing Hermod – when he contests the HK$13 million (approx. £1.2m) G1 Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (7f/1400m) on 22 February.
“Last year, he worked a bit and won it [Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup], and I think he’s a stronger, better horse this year,” Hayes said.
“I think he will handle the 1400m beautifully. I’m really excited for the next race. It’s another dimension for him.
“Last year, he nearly broke the course record at 1400m, and I think if the conditions are right, he can go close again.”
Ridden by Karis Teetan in last year’s Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup in the absence of regular rider Zac Purton, who was injured, Ka Ying Rising clocked 1m 20.33s.
Ka Ying Rising today clocked 1m 07.66s – outside his own 1200m Sha Tin turf track record of 1m 07.20s – after being allowed to coast to the line in defeating Helios Express by one-and-a quarter lengths with Fast Network a further two lengths back.
“The winning margin wasn’t probably the greatest, but it’s probably the most Zac has ever eased him down,” Hayes said.
“So, he had a very easy last 200 metres and he dominated as the market suggested he would. Just nice to see him do it.”
Ka Ying Rising improved his record to 18 wins from 20 starts and is unbeaten since 12 February 2024, with career prize money of HK$129.8 million.
READ MORE: Which 10 horses could steal the show at Leopardstown’s Dublin Racing Festival?