Intro:

Designs on Rome ridden by Joao Moreira pulled off a stunning victory in the Longines Hong Kong Cup at Sha Tin on Sunday (December 14).

Script:

The final stretch of the 2,000 metre Hong Kong Cup.

Designs on Rome accelerates on the turn and overtakes the early leaders to sprint to victory by the smallest of margins.

0.01 seconds - the difference between the pre-race favourite and second placed Military Attack.

Australia's Criterion finished third.

It was the second win of the day for jockey Joao Moreira, who didn't think he'd won crossing the finish line.

SOUNDBITE: Joao Moreira, "Designs on Rome" jockey

"But he's just an amazing horse, once again he pulled himself and I'm looking forward to his next race because I know he'll be very much competitive."

The 14.25 million dollar Hong Kong Cup is the highlight of the annual event at the Sha Tin track.

It's one of the world's richest racing meets.

Trainer John Moore now has his sights set on Dubai and the Sheema Classic for the Hong-Kong stabled horse.