Next up was the BOCHK Wealth Management Jockey Club Mile, which by all prior accounts was an Able Friend benefit. The big horse settled well back in the field on the inside of Rewarding Hero, with only Designs On Rome behind them.

Up front Secret Sham set a steady tempo, with Beauty Flame sitting off him a couple of lengths and Contentment having a nice run behind him. It was pretty evident well out from home the Able Friend was going to have to do something exceptional, even by his standards, to win.

As they straightened Beauty Flame peeled out and took a lead with Contentment looking to run him down. Moreira was left to ride for luck on Able Friend up the inside and never looked the winner. Able Friend still made good time in his last 400m, coming home in under 21 seconds, so not a poor run at all. Obviously the Moore camp will be disappointed not to win, but Able Friend will still be the short price favourite on the big day.

First up from injury, Designs On Rome, settled at the rear of the field and ran home well to be beaten 3 ¼ lengths. Going second up into the Hong Kong Cup is a big ask against a quality field, but he put in a good performance here, with the fastest last 400m sectional.