Racing Minister salutes Buffering ahead of Hong Kong Group 1

Racing Minister Grace Grace has wished the connections of champion Queensland galloper Buffering all the best ahead of his second major international race of the year in Hong Kong on Sunday.

The Rob Heathcote trained sprinter will take on a crack international field in the Group 1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize at Sha Tin Racecourse, following his triumph last start in the $1 million Al Quoz Sprint in Dubai.

“Buffering will be carrying the hopes of thousands of Queensland racing fans on Sunday,” Ms Grace said.

“He’s an out and out champion and a great advertisement for Queensland’s world class racing industry.

“In true rags-to-riches fashion, he’s outperformed his modest $22,000 price tag to amass $7 million in prizemoney across three countries.

“I want to wish trainer Rob Heathcote, jockey Damian Browne and Buffering’s connections all the very best as they take on the world on Sunday.”

Ms Grace said the presence of NSW champion Chautauqua would add an extra dimension to the looming clash at Sha Tin.

“There’s nothing like a bit of interstate rivalry to bring out the best in Buffering, who has chalked up major wins in Queensland, NSW, Victoria and WA,” she said.

“Buffering will need all his renowned fighting qualities to repel the challenge of Chautauqua on Sunday, but whatever the result he’ll do Queensland proud.”

Media Contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548