Twelve months after being struck down by a tendon injury, Winning Ovation can complete a stunning comeback with a feature victory in Sunday’s Group Three Lion Rock Trophy (1,600m) at Sha Tin.
Shortly after a strong win on his second local start, the British import suffered the major setback which effectively ruled him out of this season’s Classic Series.
The injury didn’t halt his momentum when he made his long-awaited return, with the Tony Cruz-trained gelding leading all the way for a stylish triumph first up in March.
He has since recorded another two wins, with a close second to Mugen when trapped wide without cover throughout the only blemish to his record this term.
With his rating soaring to 100, Winning Ovation will be thrust into Group company for the first time when he takes on emerging star Sky Jewellery and Group One performers Sunlight Power and Beauty Joy on Sunday.
