Makybe Diva relation wins the Hong Kong Derby

Cap Ferrat, a four-year-old gelding with notable lineage being a close relation to the great Makybe Diva, secured his first career victory in the prestigious Hong Kong Derby (2000m) at Sha Tin on Sunday.

Under jockey Craig Williams, Cap Ferrat clinched the win by a narrow margin, edging out My Wish (by Flying Artie) and Packing Angel (by Shocking).

Bred by Arrowfield Stud, Cap Ferrat is a son of Snitzel and C’Est Beau La Vie, making him a close relative to the legendary Makybe Diva. He was purchased for $1.4 million at the Inglis Easter Yearling Sale by Coolmore’s Tom Magnier. Initially trained by Chris Waller in Australia, Cap Ferrat demonstrated potential with notable performances, including a third-place finish in the Group II Gloaming Stakes and a second in the Group I Spring Champion Stakes. However, he was unable to secure a win in his 16 Australian starts.

Transitioning to Hong Kong under trainer Francis Lui, Cap Ferrat faced challenges in his initial races, finishing 12th in the Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m) and ninth in the Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m). Despite these setbacks, his persistence paid off in the Derby, where he capitalized on an advantageous draw from gate two to secure victory.

This triumph not only marks a significant milestone for Cap Ferrat but also underscores the enduring influence of his sire, Snitzel, who recently celebrated another major win with his filly Marhoona clinching the Golden Slipper.

Notably, Cap Ferrat’s full brother is set to be offered at the upcoming Inglis Easter Yearling Sale as Lot 312 by Arrowfield, drawing attention from potential buyers.