“Couldn’t Believe It Really”: Renowned Horse Racing Trainer Expresses Disbelief After Attending Event Over 6,000 Miles From Home Turf

The horse racing world is set to witness an epic showdown at Sha Tin Racecourse, also known as Happy Valley Racecourse, commencing on December 10, 2023. The Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) are set to attract enthusiasts from all around the world for four exhilarating G1 races.

The competition is high, and with it comes international bragging rights. Amid the anticipation, it is a surprise that a renowned Irish horse racing trainer, made it to Hong Kong, over 6000 miles away from Ireland.

Iconic horse racing trainer left in shock

In a recent post on X by Raceday RTV, Aidan O’Brien, the famed Irish horse trainer, was interviewed after the barrier draw in Sha Tin. The interviewer asked O’Brien about his experience attending the show put up at the Happy Valley Racecourse when he visited the track. To which the 54-year-old O’Brien answered, saying, “Yeah, incredible. Incredible place. Atmosphere is incredible. Incredible track. The way everything was done, I couldn’t believe it really.” During the conversation, O’Brien also discussed the challenges of international travel for horses, particularly the 13-hour flights they undertake for prestigious international races like the upcoming ones.

He emphasized the importance of holistic training, explaining how his horses, having been well-trained at home, are given time to recover and adjust upon reaching a new place. He shared how his horses will get to Hong Kong by Friday and spend time recovering and training before the race on Sunday. This intriguing interview took place after Aidan O’Brien admitted to bringing his best team to the Longines Hong Kong International Races.

Aidan O’Brien brings his A1 team to Hong Kong

For the Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) at Sha Tin Racecourse, Aidan O’Brien’s horses will compete in four major horse races. At the G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Vase (2400 m), Warm Heart will demonstrate her prowess, and Aesop’s Fables will run the 1 LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint (1200m).

Cairo is set to showcase its talent at the G1 Longines Hong Kong Mile (1600 m), and iconic Luxembourg will run at the G1 Longines Hong Kong Cup (2000m). When asked if his team was the best he had brought to Happy Valley Racecourse, he shared, “I think there is no doubt that it is.”

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As an epic showdown awaits horse racing fans at the Longines Hong Kong International Races, they also look forward to a thrilling spectacle from Warm Heart, Aesop’s Fables, Cairo, and Luxembourg.

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