Stellenbosch, aiming for a breakthrough international Group 1 victory in the Hong Kong Vase, will start from the wide barrier number 13. Trainer Sakae Kunieda took the draw in stride, commenting with a smile, "Personally, I would have preferred barrier 3, but considering the risk of getting boxed in on the inside, barrier 13 might actually be better."

On Thursday morning, Stellenbosch underwent a 50-minute hand-walking session around the stable area as part of her preparations. "There are no issues at all, and her appetite remains excellent," Kunieda said, noting her continued good condition.

Reflecting on jockey Joao Moreira, Kunieda expressed confidence in the experienced rider. "As we saw in the Oka Sho, even if her start isn't ideal, he can secure a good position. Having ridden at Sha Tin for 10 years, he knows the track and how to make the most of it."