On Regina Z in a time of 39.99 sec, Smolders beat a star studded line-up of riders including Penelope Leprévost and Flora de Mariposa (41.1 sec) and reigning European Champion Roger-Yves Bost on Castle Forbes Cosma (41.36 sec).
“We beat the best horses and riders and I am so happy we came out on top tonight,” Smolders said.
“My horse was very quick at the turns and very smooth in the jump off,” he added.
Smolders will take the same horse into the $US700,000 Longines Grand Prix tomorrow afternoon and is hoping for a similar result in the most prestigious competition of the event on the final day tomorrow.
“This class tonight suits her but I am hoping for the best tomorrow as well."
Hong Kong Jockey Club Trophy runner-up Pénélope Leprévost was the first woman to make it to the first three on the podium so far during this edition of the Longines Hong Kong Masters and led a strong top 10 finish by lady riders in this particular competition.
The Longines Grand Prix will take place at 3pm tomorrow.