Ka Ying Rising, the world’s top-rated sprinter, has delighted David Hayes in his final fast turf gallop ahead of the LONGINES Hong Kong International Races on 14 December as a string of local contenders sharpened preparations with barrier trials at Sha Tin on Thursday. 

The New Zealand-bred gelding will attempt to match Golden Sixty’s feat of winning 16 races in a row - a streak bettered only by Silent Witness (17 wins) as a Hong Kong, China-trained horse – when he tackles the HK$28 million Gr.1 LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) next week. 

Hayes believes his charge is on target after the five-time Group One winner surged over his final 400m in 21.6s in a sparkling turf gallop on Wednesday morning under leading rider Zac Purton. 

“I thought it was as good as you could ask the horse to work. Zac quickened on him, and he said he thought that he was at his top and he gave him a little dig and he extended again,” Hayes said. 

“He just cantered around on the turf track and quickened the last 400m and ran home in 21.6 (seconds). He just gradually increased his work, and I think he would have broken 11 seconds for the last 200m without trying. 

“I think Zac thought it was the best he’s felt in work, so he just keeps on improving and he’ll just do steady work into the big race. We’re very happy with him.”