Hong Kong Vase:

Total Prize: HK$14 million (approx. US$ 1.8 million)

Official Website: http://www.hkjc.com

First run: 1994

Qualification: 3yrs old and up males and females

Distance: 2400 metres (1 1/2 miles)

Course Record: 2:25.10 Red Bishop 1994

Track: Turf, right handed

Track Bias: Little bias to report because of distance involved but fast final sectional times are a big advantage due to the fast sprint down the final straight. Being on pace or leading coming of the last corner will often decide the winner.

History: First run in 1994 and won by Red Bishop whose record for this race still stands. The race was upgraded to Group 1 in 1999, winners of the race mostly come from France or Great Britain with only Indigenous (HK) 1998 and Stay Gold (JPN) 2001 from this part of the world. Most Australian and New Zealand stayers would be at the end of their spring campaign so the Europeans have their best chance to clean up.

Past Winners: Luso (GB) 1996 & 1997, Doctor Dino (FR) 2007 2008, Darryakana (FR) 2009, Mastery (GB) 2010

Lead Up Form: Genuine stayers with wins at 2400m or more.

Related Races: Hong Kong Cup, Hong Kong Sprint, Hong Kong mile.

Statistics & Trends: Most successful jockey is Olivier Peslier 4 wins.

Betting on Hong Kong racing including the Honk Kong Vase is available online at Sportsbet.com.au.