Bertram Allen and Christy JNR (Indoctro x Clinton I) scorched the sand on their way to winning the Longines Speed Challenge on Saturday night, making it a second victory in the “fastest competition in the world” for the Irishman – and sending the Hong Kong fans into rapture on their way.

Didn’t Allen just love it, too, breaking into a beaming smile after setting a time of 60.47 that proved far too quick and too good for the rest. Behind him came France’s Patrice “King of Hong Kong” Delaveau and Vestale de Mazure*HDC (Landor S x Quidam de Revel) in 62.88 seconds, while fellow Frenchman Kevin Staut, winner of the Speed Challenge in Paris, and Ayade de Septon*HDC finished third (Wandor van de Mispelaere x Belle d'Avril du Mazy) in a time of 62.94. 

“I like to smile when I ride well,” said Allen. “I’m delighted and my horse ran superbly. The people here in Hong Kong really love it. They really enjoy their time and watching the horses. I love it.”