Giavellotto Will Compete in Longines Hong Kong Vase
Trainer Marco Botti is set to bypass the Breeders' Cup to prepare the horse for his upcoming trip to Hong Kong.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Equestrian
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Seven-year-old horse Giavellotto will skip the Breeders' Cup at Keeneland to focus exclusively on competing in the Longines Hong Kong Vase. Trainer Marco Botti intends for the horse to remain fresh by traveling directly to the race in Hong Kong.
Why it matters
The decision reflects a strategic prioritization of the Hong Kong Vase, which the owner considers the primary objective for the horse. By bypassing other international engagements, the team aims to optimize performance for the specific target event.
Giavellotto, a seven-year-old horse, won the 2026 Hardwicke Stakes and previously took victory in the 2024 Longines Hong Kong Vase. He also placed second in the 2025 iteration of the same race and finished behind Saddadd in the 156th Grosser Preis von Baden.
The players
Marco Botti
He is the professional racehorse trainer based in Newmarket who oversees the career and competition schedule for Giavellotto.
Giavellotto
He is a seven-year-old horse and elite competitor known for success in international racing events including the Hardwicke Stakes.
Saddadd
He is the horse that finished ahead of Giavellotto during the 156th Grosser Preis von Baden.
The details
Giavellotto will be shipped directly to Hong Kong to ensure he stays in peak condition following his recent appearance in Baden-Baden. Trainer Marco Botti confirmed the horse will not participate in the upcoming events at Keeneland, focusing all resources on the Hong Kong race.
Timeline
Giavellotto won the Longines Hong Kong Vase in 2024.
The horse finished second in the Longines Hong Kong Vase in 2025.
Giavellotto achieved a victory at the 2026 Hardwicke Stakes.
Season Trajectory
The entry of Giavellotto into the Longines Hong Kong Vase reinforces his status as a recurring contender in international marquee races. This move defines his late-season path by sidestepping the Breeders' Cup in favor of a course where he has historically secured a win and a runner-up finish.
By skipping the Breeders' Cup, the horse avoids the travel strain of an additional international trip before the Hong Kong Vase. This decision ensures he remains on a singular training track for his primary winter target.
The takeaway
Selecting specific high-value targets over a crowded race calendar is a common strategy for aging elite horses. Maintaining a controlled travel schedule can be critical for recovery and performance in major international competitions.
Further reading
For more background on top-tier international horse racing, visit the Equestrian section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sportinglife.
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