Criterion is Headed for Hong Kong

Dual Australian Group 1 winner Criterion (NZ) (Sebring {Aus}) is bound for Hong Kong after being given the green light by the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service veterinarian according to published reports. The Australian Derby hero suffered a mild bout of colic Sunday and while stable vets cleared the chestnut, the flight bound for Hong Kong was delayed by 2 1/2 hours until the additional approval was obtained late Monday. The new Hayes-Dabernig charge is being pointed toward the G1 Hong Kong International Cup over 2000 meters Dec. 14. 

“We were able to work him as normal this morning,” David Hayes told Racing and Sports Monday. “His food intake and his fluid intake has been normal.” 

Prior to being transferred to the care of David Hayes and Tom Dabernig, the 4-year-old was also victorious in the G1 Rosehill Guineas for conditioner David Payne. Criterion joined the new stable after running fifth in the G1 Mackinnon S. Nov. 1.