Russian Emperor was a very good winner. Who takes the 2023 Champions & Chater Cup (2400m) at Sha Tin on Sunday?

2023 CHAMPIONS & CHATER CUP - RACE HISTORY AND BACKGROUND

The Champions & Chater Cup is a Group 1 race run under Weight For Age conditions for the stayers at Sha Tin conducted by Hong Kong Jockey Club.

The Champions & Chater Cup is run over 2400m. The race goes as far back as 1870, when known as the Champion Stakes.

In 1926, it was renamed the Chater Cup after former Club Chairman Sir Catchick Paul Chater, before being changed again to the Champions & Chater Cup in 1955.

There are very few 2400m races on the HK calendar – as little as three at stages.

This race follows the Steward's Cup and Hong Kong Gold Cup in the Hong Kong Triple Crown races for older horses.

In the last 30 years, the Champions & Chater Cup has been dominated by three trainers - Tony Cruz (7), Ivan Allan (6) and John Moore (5).

Exultant was crowned 2019/20 Horse Of The Year in Hong Kong with feature wins which included this race.

The Champions & Chater Cup was worth HK$12m in 2023.

Some notable winners of the Champions & Chater Cup include Russian Emperor (2022), Exultant (2019/2020), Pakistan Star (2018), Werther (2017), Blazing Speed (2014/2016), California Memory (2013), Mighty High (2011), Viva Pataca (2006/2007/2009), Vengeance Of Rain (2005), Super Kid (2004), Oriental Express (1999/2001), Indigenous (1997/1998), River Verdon (1991/1992/1993/1994), Silver Lining (1987/1979/1981)  and Super Win (1975/1976/1977).

The 2022 Champions & Chater Cup was won by Russian Emperor from Ka Ying Star and Senor Toba.