Almond Eye team assured political unrest will not threaten next target

Japan's best racehorse Almond Eye looks set to go on her travels to tackle the Longines Hong Kong Cup on December 8 following reassurances from Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) officials over safety.

A meeting at Happy Valley was cancelled on September 18 due to political unrest but connections say they are not concerned about any impact on racing at Sha Tin.

A supreme three-length winner of the Tenno Sho on her last start, Almond Eye had the option of staying at home for the Japan Cup – a race she won last year – but connections have decided to aim her at the HK$28 million showpiece two weeks later.

Owner Silk Racing's CEO Masashi Yonemoto told asian-racinghub.com: "Of course the Japan Cup was a consideration but after checking the horse after the Tenno Sho we decided to give her more time and leave space for her to go to Hong Kong.

"We have been in regular contact with HKJC officials with regards to any possible issues, and we are not concerned about safety. We have had a lot of discussion and we are not worried about racing at Sha Tin. This is not intended to be her last run."

The six-time Group 1 winner has only left Japan once, resulting in an easy win in the Dubai Turf in March.

Possible opposition could include fellow Japanese stars Win Bright and Deirdre, while Investec Derby hero Anthony Van Dyck could represent Aidan O'Brien. Benbatl and Billesdon Brook also feature in the 96 entries.

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