As his name suggests, Prince Encosta is a son of Encosta de Lago and while he scored an eye-catching win on debut at Canterbury on Wednesday afternoon, it was goodbye to Sydney racing with the three-year-old heading overseas.

Prepared by astute Warwick Farm trainer Oliver Koolman, Prince Encosta (x Implore) will now head to the stables of leading Hong Kong trainer Tony Cruz.

“We always knew he was destined for Hong Kong sooner or later and while it is disappointing to lose him from the stable, it is very satisfying to see him show his true colours today,” said Koolman.

“The way he worked on Monday we went into this race with every confidence.

“Dad (Anton Koolman Bloodstock) bought him at the Melbourne Premier sales for $70,000 for Patrick Fung and as Patrick has raced with success in Hong Kong before with Tony, this was a horse always heading there.

Prince Encosta winning on debut
Photo Martin King Sportpix

“He hasn’t been an easy horse; he’s certainly been no joy-ride! He had to go back to the breakers at one stage, so it’s doubly good to see him race so well today.

“I spoke to Patrick early on in the horse’s career and explained we had to be patient with the horse.
“He was highly strung and awkward and I felt it was better that he get some racing experience here before he went to Hong Kong.

“The beauty about Hong Kong owners is that they understand the need to be patient when necessary and never question you when you say you need time.

“It’s really worked out well with this horse and I am confident he can go on to Hong Kong and do us proud over there.

"Fortunately we have a couple of, as yet un-named, two-year-olds with Patrick as well and they are coming along nicely."

Prince Encosta was ridden to perfection by the in-from Zac Purton who had the three-year-old settled behind the speed.

When the field went for home they put a few lengths on the eventual winner but he let down with a real turn of foot, going home an impressive length and a half-winner from Termination with Storbaelt third a further short half-head away.

“He’s got a lot of ability this horse,” said Purton.

“He traveled well and was relaxed in the run but I reckon you’ll see an even better horse when he starts to get over a bit of ground.”