Frankie Lor will launch his star sophomore Furore (NZ) (Pierro) at the Gr.3 Sa Sa Ladies’ Purse Handicap (1800m) at Sha Tin on Sunday.
Furore was Hong Kong’s standout four-year-old last term thanks to wins in the BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) and Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m).
Furore stepped out for the season four weeks ago in the Gr.3 Celebration Cup Handicap (1400m). The New Zealand-bred finished fifth behind Beauty Generation (NZ) (Road To Rock), who set a new track record over 1400m at Sha Tin.
“The 1400 metres was a little bit short for him but he sat very close to the pace and in the straight you can see he didn’t really finish – this time I will ask Karis (Teetan) to settle him midfield as I think he has a strong finish,” Lor said.
Teetan will be aboard Furore for the first time. The Mauritian is eager for Sunday’s test but is under no illusion about the challenge the opposition will pose.
“I’ve watched his races – he looked pretty impressive in his trial last week and I’m looking forward to riding him,” Teetan said.
“It’s a very strong race, it could be a Group 1 race with all the Group 1 winners in there but he comes in with a light weight, which should be a big advantage to him.”
Lor earmarked the Gr.1 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (2000m) as Furore’s big target for the season.
