Trainer David Eustace is considering targeting the Group One Lightning Stakes at Flemington and Royal Ascot for his sprinter Colourful King, with the horse’s upcoming run at Sha Tin on Sunday serving as a critical juncture for his campaign plans.
Colourful King, a five-year-old by Blue Point, returned to racing with an impressive performance in the Group Three National Day Cup (1,000m), elevating his rating to 110 after a commanding win against strong competition. This improved rating has narrowed the choices for Eustace, who is now weighing international opportunities, including the Lightning Stakes in Australia scheduled for mid-February and potentially Royal Ascot during the European summer.
Eustace acknowledged logistical uncertainties around quarantine protocols for the Australian autumn but expressed optimism about the timing of both international targets. He also pointed to jockey Zac Purton’s belief that Colourful King possesses the ability to compete at the highest level, possibly including races like the King Charles III Stakes at Royal Ascot.
The upcoming race at Sha Tin—the Group Two Lukfook Jewellery Premier Bowl (1,200m)—represents Colourful King’s most demanding challenge to date. He is set to carry 132 pounds and face a competitive field including Raging Blizzard, Crimson Flash, Ka Ying Attack, and Beauty Waves. Jockey Jerry Chau Chun-lok will replace Purton for this race.
Eustace cited the outside barrier draw (stall nine) as a significant obstacle, especially given the 1,200-meter distance tests Colourful King’s stamina at the limit. He noted the horse’s stronger performances have come over 1,000 meters or at 1,200 meters with a more favorable draw, particularly at Sha Tin. Nevertheless, Eustace acknowledged the quality of the opposition and recognized this as Colourful King’s toughest assignment so far.
Should the horse struggle with the distance, Eustace said he plans to refresh Colourful King for the 1,000-meter Bauhinia Sprint Trophy on January 1, considering it his primary alternative.
If Eustace pursues the Australian option, he would return to Flemington, the site of his standout career victory training in partnership with Ciaron Maher when Gold Trip won the Melbourne Cup in 2022. Additionally, Royal Ascot might set up a sibling rivalry with his brother Harry Eustace, a UK-based trainer who could enter his sprinter Time For Sandals in the same Group One events.
David Eustace also faces a strategic decision regarding Light Years Charm, fresh from a win in the Group Two Sha Tin Trophy (1,600m). Currently weighing whether to contest the Group One Hong Kong Cup over 2,000 meters or the Group One Hong Kong Mile, Eustace highlighted the horse’s strong mile form but unproven stamina at the longer distance. The decision remains unsettled as Eustace consults with his owner and advisors.
Beyond these headline horses, Eustace will field a strong contingent on Sunday. Seraph Gabriel will run in the Class Three Lukfook Jewellery Miss Hong Kong Love Yourself Collection Handicap over 2,000 meters. Eustace praised the horse’s recent effort, pointing out a favorable comparison with stablemate China Win. Happy Boss is expected to run in the Class Three Lukfook Jewellery Beloved Collection Handicap (1,400m); Eustace noted the horse’s marked improvement this season.
Completing Eustace’s Sunday lineup are Blue Lightning, Definitive, Light Years Glory, and Apolar Fighter, as he currently holds third place in the trainers’ premiership with 10 wins.