Tony Cruz sharpens Hong Kong Mile champ Beauty Only with a blistering burst up the Sha Tin straight
Trainer applies tried and trusted method to get defending champion in top shape for title defence
Trainer Tony Cruz is not only the living legend of Hong Kong racing, he is repeatedly proved his status as a trainer against the best on the planet in the week where Hong Kong invites the world to dine at its table.
This year, Cruz has representatives in all four international races and that includes defending Longines Hong Kong Mile champion Beauty Only, who will attempt to become only the second repeat winner of the Mile (Good Ba Ba won three straight from 2007 to 2009).
On Wednesday morning at Sha Tin, Cruz turned to one of his favourite tricks to sharpen up his charges in grand final week – a blistering rush up the straight on the all-weather track for just over 400m, out of the barrier stalls.
Beauty Only paired off with Vase contender Gold Mount, while sprinter Peniaphobia had Cup contestant Time Warp for company in a separate jumpout.
Beauty Only went like a rocket, clocking 24.2 seconds from the standing start (about 430m), the last 200m in 10.29. Gold Mount wanted no part of it and was beaten many lengths, while the reigning Mile hero cruised home.
