Americain will not go to the Hong Kong Vase

Americain will not continue on to the Hong Kong Vase to try and improve on the third placing he achieved in the event last year.

Following his 2010 Melbourne Cup victory Americain travelled to Sha Tin and put in a solid performance to come home third before returning back to Europe.

This year he has had a very different journey after moving on to the Zipping Classic from his fast finishing fourth in the Melbourne Cup.

He won at Sandown on Saturday but that run will be his last after quite a long preparation.

It robs the race of what would have been a fantastic rematch with both Melbourne Cup champion Dunaden and runner up Red Cadeaux both confirmed for the Hong Kong Vase.

Also off the cards for Americain is the Sheema Classic which was touted as a possible option on Dubai World Cup night.

Americain will instead spell in Australia before embarking on what will likely be his final year as a race horse.

Owner Kevin Bamford has previously indicated he’s keen to hold off on sending his horse to stud while he’s still racing so well.

The draw of a third shot at a Melbourne Cup is also a driving force behind his decision.

As yet no trainer has been confirmed for his upcoming Australian campaign however travelling foreman Stephanie Nigge will stay part of the team.

She’s credited with plenty of Americain’s Aussie success as she’s overseen wins in four of his five starts here.

It is with her blessing that a Hong Kong bid wasn’t pursued.

“He’s a bit tired,” Nigge said.

“Three races in three weeks is something that he’s not used to back home.”