Timeform is standing by its decision to leave Ka Ying Rising’s rating unchanged following an electric return in Sunday’s G3 Chief Executive’s Cup, which saw Hong Kong’s champion sprinter smash his own Sha Tin track record, it was reported on Wednesday.

While “mildly impressed” by the David Hayes-trained gelding’s 1:06.11s time, the ratings authority indicated that the perfect Sha Tin conditions meant that the gelding still needed to face a true test of character—specifically that posed by “a cold, rainy night in Stoke”—to improve off his 137 rating.

Speaking to this masthead on the condition of anonymity, a Timeform insider provided further clarity on the non-adjustment, indicating that they would also like to see Ka Ying Rising successfully deal with a Rory Delap long throw-in before revisiting the figure.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club is reportedly undertaking a feasibility study on the intricacies of travelling the jurisdiction’s flagship galloper to Stoke this winter.

More to follow.