For all but the final 50 metres of Sunday's BMW Hong Kong Derby at Sha Tin, Andrea Atzeni looked to have stolen the valuable feature on the Churchill (IRE) gelding Ka Ying Generation (IRL) before the swoopers Massive Sovereign (IRE) and Galaxy Patch launched down the centre of the track.
Backed into favouritism on the strength of his brilliant performance over the same trip and track at his Hong Kong debut on March 3, Massive Sovereign (IRE) gave Zac Purton a second win in the Derby and trainer Dennis Yip his first.
The son of No Nay Never defeated the game Wandjina gelding Galaxy Patch by a neck.
Pierre Ng came close to pulling off a remarkable feat with Galaxy Patch, who made just one start longer than 1200m, which came at his previous start when second to California Spangle in the Queen's Silver Jubilee Cup over 1400m.
Ka Ying Generation (IRE) held on gamely to be the same distance back in third.
Going for a sweep of the 4yo Series, Hugh Bowman’s mount Helios Express (Toronado) was never a factor, and he clocked in eighth, four and a half lengths from the winner.
"It’s been a frustrating race for me, and it’s been a frustrating season to be honest,” Purton said.
“To finally get one of the bigger ones is a relief, especially with Dennis, as we’ve had a great association over the years.
“When that leader was so far in front, and he didn’t stop or give up, he made me earn it.
“I thought I would get close, but at the 200m I felt I had his measure.”
A €620,000 purchase for MV Magnier from the Camas Park Stud consignment at the 2021 Goffs Orby Yearling Sale, Massive Sovereign is the first foal of the stakes-winning Myboycharlie mare Sweet Charity (FR).
Massive Sovereign’s year younger sister won at Newcomers Race over 1200m at Hanshin in December.
A son of the former Coolmore shuttler No Nay Never (USA), Massive Sovereign made five starts in Ireland for Aidan O’Brien when named Broadhurst, winning at Dundalk and Leopardstown and was runner-up twice.
