HONG KONG - Australia's world-class sprinter Takeover Target has drawn barrier 12 in Sunday's Hong Kong International Sprint.
Takeover Target is in line for a A$2.5 million ($2.9 million) pay day if he wins Sunday's group one race with a US$1 million ($1.48 million) bonus on offer in
addition to the first prize.
The bonus is payable to a horse who can win three group one races in as many countries during the Global Sprint Challenge.
Takeover Target is the firm favourite for the 1200m race and trainer Joe Janiak said he was unconcerned at the wide draw.
"We'll decide on the day what we do, how we ride him," Janiak said.
"I would have liked to have drawn in the middle of the field but he's won from out there before."
Australia's second representative, Red Oog, drew the outside barrier in the 14-horse field.
His trainer Joe Pride admitted his task would now be significantly more difficult.
"Naturally I would have liked to have drawn inside Takeover Target but you can't do anything about it," Pride said.
"We are still in it with a chance. The horse is well and he has been set for this race for a long time now."
Janiak also dismissed reports that all was not well with Takeover Target.
"He worked pretty well for a broken down horse yesterday morning," he said.
"He's still got four legs and he's as fit as he's ever been."
The third of the Australian contenders, Growl, drew barrier seven in the Hong Kong Cup (2000m), which will be his last race for trainer David Hayes.
Growl is owned by Hong Kong interests and will remain there to be trained by Almond Lee.
- AAP
