US Grade One Winner for Holy Roman

Talented Hong Kong trained sprinter Rich Tapestry (6g Holy Roman Emperor x Genuine Charm, by Sadler’s Wells) made history when becoming the first HK trained Grade I winner in the US after taking out the $300,000 Santa Anita Sprint Challenge on the weekend.

He surged late to win the six furlong sprint by a nose, his seventh win in 27 starts.

“I know in American racing style, they go very fast, always very fast in the first quarter, and the second quarter…and in the home straight, they all slow down,” said winning trainer Michael Chang offered.

“So I just asked my jockey,’Give the horse a chance. Try to make him finish. You cannot go with them in the early stage.”

Chang was scheduled to return to Hong Kong Saturday evening, but Rich Tapestry will remain at Santa Anita under the care of Leonard Powell.

Bred in Ireland, Rich Tapestry is the best of four winners from Sadler’s Wells mare Genuine Charm, a half-sister to Grade I winners Refuse to Bend and Media Puzzle.

Already a stakes-winner in Dubai and Hong Kong, Rich Tapestry is the fifth Grade I winner for Holy Roman Emperor.