Rookie trainer Cody Mo celebrated in his first training success in Hong Kong after Zac Purton piloted Romantic Laos (NZ), a son of Pins, to victory in the Class 3 Wong Chuk Hang Handicap (1650m).
“I’m very happy and I want to thank my team and also the owners’ support,” the 45-year-old trainer said.
“I thought this horse would run well because he trialled well and I came here tonight feeling good – but I was a bit concerned about having barrier 12. I’m feeling really good and very thankful.”
A vastly experienced assistant trainer after stints with Tony Cruz, David Hall, Benno Yung and David Ferraris, Mo was granted a licence for this season and has made a conservative start to his maiden campaign.
Romantic Laos was Mo’s eighth starter for the season so far.
Bred by Waikato Stud, Romantic Laos is by the stud’s late sire Pins out of the Zabeel mare Zaburn (NZ) and was purchased by the Hong Kong Jockey Club for $210,000 as a yearling at Karaka.
Romantic Laos had previously won twice for Jamie Richards in his Rookie season last year.
