The race was first held in 1994 and was won by a horse called Red Bishop. It was promoted to Group 1 status in 2000 when it was won by Daliapour. It has always been held in mid-December.

Other Group One races held during the International Race Day are the Hong Kong Cup over 2000 metres, the Hong Kong Mile over 1600 metres; and the Hong Kong Sprint over 1200 metres. The total purse for all four races is HK$118,000,000..

Last 3YO to win: Mogul (2020)

Multiple winners: Glory Vase (2021 & 2019); Highland Reel (2015 & 2017); Doctor Dino (2007 & 2008); Luso (1996 & 1997).

Fastest time (2400m): Glory Vase (2019) 2:24:77

Leading jockey: Olivier Peslier with 4 wins (Doctor Dino 2008; Doctor Dino 2007; Borgia 1999; Partipral 1995).

Leading trainers: Aidam O’Brien with 3 wins (Mogul 2020; Highland Reel 2017; Highland Reel 2015) and Andre Fabre with 3 wins (Junko 2023; Flintshire 2014; Borgia 1999)

Interesting trivia: The oldest winner was Collier HIll who was an 8YO when he won in 2006.

Past winners include horses that have gone well in the Melbourne Cup such as Dunaden and Red Cadeaux.