New Zealand-bred Definitive delivers for War Decree in Hong Kong
New Zealand-bred gelding Definitive (NZ) (War Decree) stepped up with an emphatic first Class 2 victory at Sha Tin on Sunday, winning the HK$3.12 million Muk Min Ha Handicap (1650m) on the dirt for trainer David Eustace.
The five-year-old son of War Decree made the most of a light weight and a well-judged ride from Karis Teetan to score by two and a quarter lengths over Talents Ambition (Into Mischief), with Sky Vino (Vino Rosso) third.
Bred by Ysberg Bloodstock, Definitive is out of the Rip Van Winkle mare Fascinate Me. He was purchased by Mike Breslin for $50,000 from Inglewood Stud’s Book 1 draft at Karaka 2022 and won a race in New Zealand under the name Revolt before joining Eustace in Hong Kong.
Jumping from barrier seven on Sunday, Definitive settled behind pacemaker Sing Dragon before Teetan moved up to challenge approaching the home straight. Taking control at the 400m, he drew clear to complete the journey in 1m 38s.
“He went down to the gates feeling good and when he came out so well, I thought, that’s halfway home already,” Teetan said.
“He was able to control the race and he picked it up nicely. He had no weight on his back and he was in the perfect spot.”
Carrying just 115lb, Definitive gave his rivals little opportunity to respond, producing a performance that reinforced Teetan’s confidence in his ability.
“I always knew he had ability, and sometimes it’s just about him bringing his ‘A game’ to the races, too,” he said.
“I must say, well done to David and his team – they had the horse spot on.”
The success continued a productive start to the season for Eustace, who had claimed a Group Three victory with Colourful King (Blue Point) three days earlier. Definitive provided the trainer with his fifth winner of the campaign.
While the son of War Decree proved effective on Sha Tin’s dirt surface, a return to Happy Valley is likely as Eustace considers his next assignment. Definitive has already won three times at the city circuit.
“He got a beautiful ride and the setup of the race worked out well for him,” Eustace said.
“He’s got to take his medicine from the handicapper, and there are not too many options for him on the dirt, but he’s got a very effective record at Happy Valley.”
