Full Breakdown
My Wish Triumphs in Group Three Celebration Cup at Sha Tin
9/29/2025, 12:37:24 AM
Overview of the Celebration Cup Event
On September 28, 2025, My Wish secured a decisive victory in the HK$4.2 million Group Three Celebration Cup (1,400m) at Sha Tin, marking a promising start to the racing season. The race featured a competitive field, with My Wish ultimately winning by a length and a quarter, showcasing his potential as a leading contender for the upcoming Hong Kong Mile.
Race Highlights and Performance
My Wish, trained by Mark Newnham and ridden by jockey Luke Ferraris, was the favorite at odds of $2.25. The race unfolded with My Wish initially held up in traffic, requiring a strategic maneuver to find clear running. Ferraris described the moment, stating, “It just seemed like nothing was moving and then half a gap opened. He was as gutsy as ever and I put him in it and he did the rest.” This tactical decision allowed My Wish to unleash a powerful finish, clocking a time of 1:20.79.
Trainer and Jockey Insights
Mark Newnham expressed satisfaction with My Wish's performance, noting the horse's improvement from the previous season. He remarked, “He’s a really good, tenacious little horse... he’s going to be a force for the rest of the season.” Ferraris echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the horse's untapped potential, stating, “The sky is the limit with him and whatever we throw at him, he takes and does better.”
Upcoming Challenges
Following this victory, My Wish is set to compete in two Group Two races: the Sha Tin Trophy (1,600m) on October 19 and the BOCHK Private Wealth Jockey Club Mile in November. These races will serve as critical tests before the anticipated Group One Hong Kong Mile in December.
Notable Performances from Other Races
The day at Sha Tin also saw notable performances from other horses. Brett Crawford celebrated his first Hong Kong wins with Speedy Smartie and Ninja Derby, both achieving victories in their respective Class Five races. Crawford expressed his delight, stating, “Amazing day. I couldn’t be happier.”
Zac Purton, a prominent jockey, also had a successful day, riding Little Paradise to victory in the Class Three Cuckoo Handicap, further solidifying his reputation in the racing community.
Conclusion
My Wish's victory in the Celebration Cup not only highlights his capabilities but also sets the stage for an exciting season ahead. With upcoming challenges in Group Two races, the racing community is keenly watching to see how this promising horse will perform against top-tier competition.
