It appears as though Viva Pataca will not become the first Hong Kong-based runner to compete in the Breeders’ Cup World Championships.
According to reports in the South China Morning Post, owner Stanley Ho Hung-sun has changed his mind and will not send the horse to Monmouth Park in New Jersey for the John Deere Breeders’ Cup Turf (gr. IT). Earlier this month, trainer John Moore said Ho planned to ship the horse to the United States.
The Morning Post reported Ho’s office confirmed the decision but had no further comment. Ho is a Macau casino tycoon whose daughter is a partner with MGM Mirage, which is building a casino in Macau. Reports indicated there could be some casino-related regulatory issues in New Jersey.
Viva Pataca will not be pointed toward the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong International Races.