Highland Reel won a second Hong Kong Vase (2400m) in 2017 to add to his first Vase won in 2015 and his second place in 2016.

In his final race, Highland Reel, a son of Galileo, was in second for most of the race tracking pace setting Helene Charisma and kicked to a length lead early in the stretch as the pack closed. Breeders’ Cup Turf winner Talismanic joined Highland Reel at the 150m mark but Aiden O’Briens star pulled away to win in fine style. 

He won by one and three-quarter lengths score in a time of 2m 26.23s. Tosen Basil was third.

Highland Reel was ridden by Ryan Moore. Highland Reel is the third horse to win the Hong Kong Vase on two occasions and the first to achieve the feat non-consecutively.

Great Racehorses editor Robert Bishop commented “Highland Reel has again demonstrated how durable and consistent he is. He was he was going away and comfortable at the finish and it was wonderful to see him win his second Hong Kong Cup. He has raced in six different countries, including Australia. It is remarkable that in addition to two Hong Kong Vases he won the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes, Breeders' Cup Turf, Coronation Cup and Prince of Wales's Stakes and was also placed in the Prix du Jockey Club, Cox Plate, International Stakes, Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe and Champion Stakes. He now deserves a super retirement.”

Highland Reel will now go to Coolmore Stud with a record of 10 wins from 27 starts in six different countries and seventh Group 1 successes.

Great Racehorses readers can relive the 2017 LONGINES Hong Kong Vase at:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oiW-em-3PdI