Falbrav bows out with Hong Kong victory

Falbrav ended his racing career on the best possible note by taking the Hong Kong Cup at Sha Tin.

Luca Cumani's five-year-old was having his last race before retiring to stud in Japan in the 10-furlong contest.

Jockey Frankie Dettori settled him in eighth as Weightless made the early pace while fellow British challenger Rakti sat even further back in the field.

Local runner Elegant Fashion made her move turning for home but Dettori sat tight on the favourite while Rakti also began to pick up.

However, when Dettori pressed the button on Falbrav in the straight, he demonstrated an electric turn of foot to move around two lengths clear of Rakti and win going away.

The Michael Jarvis-trained Rakti hung on for second while Elegant Fashion faded into third.

Cumani was delighted to add another Group One win to Falbrav's tally for the season after his successes in the Prix d'Ispahan, Coral-Eclipse Stakes, Juddmonte International Stakes and the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes.

The trainer said: "I really wanted to win it. I always said he was the best horse in the world and now everybody knows it.

"He's been so professional all year, so easy to deal with.

"I would like him to stay on another year but now I'll just have to look forward to training his progeny."

Dettori was also quick to hail the son of Fairy King as "one of the best" he has ridden.

"He was absolutely electric and they told me to wait a bit longer with him but as soon as I pressed the button I knew he could win," said Dettori.

"He's without doubt one of the best horses I have ever ridden."