Phoenix Reach wins Hong Kong Vase

Phoenix Reach gave his trainer Andrew Balding something to cheer about towards the end of an indifferent season with a battling success in the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Vase at Sha Tin today.

Last season’s St Leger third and Canadian International winner had been below form on his first three starts this year, but showed signs that he was on the way back when sixth in the Japan Cup two weeks ago.