In recent years Australian sprinters have carved a niche at Royal Ascot but their once proud record at the Hong Kong International meeting has diminished.
Trainer John O’Shea believes triple Group One winner Sea Siren can herald a revival when she takes on a crack field in next month’s International Sprint at Sha Tin.
Falvelon won the race in 2000 and 2001 then ran third the following year, the best result for Australia since the race was elevated to Group One status.
Sea Siren, winner of the Manikato Stakes and runner-up to Mental in the Patinack Farm at her only two starts so far this spring, was given a work-out a Moonee Valley on Saturday ahead of her departure for Hong Kong on Monday.
“She worked beautifully and is at the top of her game,” O’Shea said.
“It was a good hitout although she wasn’t asked to do a great deal.
“She has had a great preparation and is fit and ready. Obviously the next two weeks will be crucial but I think she is the right sort of horse to take to Hong Kong.
“She eats well and cops everything we throw at her. She is a tough mare and I couldn’t be happier.”
Sea Siren will be accompanied on Monday’s flight from Melbourne by Alcopop who will contest the Hong Kong International Cup (2000m).
Alcopop earned his place in the Cup field with his breakthrough Group One victory in the Mackinnon Stakes at the Melbourne Cup carnival.
The winner of his first Group One race during the spring, the eight-year-old pleased trainer Jake Stephens in an exhibition gallop at Strathalbyn last Sunday.
Alcopop’s spring campaign also included Group One seconds to Ocean Park in the Caulfield Stakes and Dunaden in the Caulfield Cup.
Dunaden also leaves Australia on Monday bound for Hong Kong where he will run in the International Vase (2400m).
Craig Williams rides both Alcopop and Dunaden while Jim Cassidy will be aboard Sea Siren.
