Bonjour! I'm now in France for the big race at Longchamp racecourse tomorrow, the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe Lucien Barriere.
Longchamp is always a place that brings back fond memories for me as I came here for the first time in 1975. My friends and I had travelled hundreds of miles from Germany to support our top horse, Star Appeal, in the Arc. The long journey proved well worthwhile, though, as we were lucky enough to witness Star Appeal becoming the first German runner to win this prestigious race.
However, the most memorable Arc experience for me came in 1983, when German runner Orofino was among the contenders. The reason why I was so excited about the run of Orofino was that I was then managing the stud farm and racing operation of the Gestuet Zoppenbroich, the breeder of the horse.
On that occasion, the jockey had a terrible ride and found his horse blocked for half of the final straight. But after finding space, the horse still produced a tremendous finish to come home 9th, beaten by just four lengths. I was flabbergasted, as had the jockey give the horse a better ride, I believe it would have finished at least in the first four.
To me, the Arc is always the highlight of the European racing season as the best horses from every country take part. Compared with other classic races in Europe, the atmosphere here has always been special. The parade ring is just like a mini-stadium and the feeling of excitement before the race is absolutely electric.
Yet I can assure you that our parade ring at Sha Tin is actually much better than the one at Longchamp as it's always difficult to find a free spot in the Longchamp parade ring. There is also no roof cover, so racegoers often get soaked, as the Arc is frequently held in rainy weather.
The Club is always keen to carry more simulcasts of top races from around the world, so that our fans can appreciate the international sporting aspect of horse racing. In particular, we would like to be able to simulcast all major overseas races in which Hong Kong horses are running, as well as some of the key races related to our Hong Kong International Races in December.
For instance, it would be terrific if we could have simulcast to local racing fans how Ramonti, a placegetter in the Hong Kong International Mile last year, won the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes in impressive style at Ascot last week. However, we have to seek for government's permission before we can do anything further.
In this year's Arc, I would stick with Authorized and Soldier of Fortune. I am very excited at being able to see these two horses close up and appreciate the grace of these great champions.
For those of you following Sunday's races in Hong Kong, you will see we have launched a new ticket arrangement for our simulcast races, starting with the Arc. We hope this measure will bring more convenience and avoid any mix-ups when you are filling in your betting tickets for the simulcast races.
You may know that I am a great lover of good food. If there is one city in the world that rivals Hong Kong for wonderful restaurants, it must be Paris. A nice seafood platter is a must for me, and this time I will visit the renowned Brasserie La Lorraine. Let me tell next time if it was good. Au revoir!
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