Antoine Hamelin is set to bid farewell to Hong Kong racing at the close of the current season, drawing the curtain on a remarkable five-year chapter in his career. The French rider, known for his calm demeanour and strong finish, is preparing to return to France—a journey that brings him full circle to where his professional story first began.
During his tenure in Hong Kong, Hamelin developed a solid reputation. From his debut late in the 2019/20 season to now, he amassed 110 wins, each etched with a unique memory. The most unforgettable among them was undoubtedly his five-win day at Sha Tin in January 2021, a performance that highlighted both his skill and his synergy with his mounts. That day, horses like Golden Link and Hongkong Great helped deliver a feat few jockeys achieve in their careers.
Hamelin’s strongest season came in 2020/21, when he partnered 27 winners and helped earn close to HK$44 million in prize money. Across 2,223 rides in the city, he has contributed to nearly HK$178 million in total stakes—an impressive milestone that speaks to his consistency and resilience.
Among the highlights this season were wins aboard Raging Blizzard, Happy Fat Cat, and Nordic Dragon—each bringing its own sense of reward. Having started his career with trainer Jean de Roualle in Chantilly back in 2009, Hamelin has since ridden across multiple continents, collecting a varied and valuable set of experiences. His global exposure includes success at Royal Ascot and a memorable victory in the 2012 Prix du Jockey Club aboard Saonois, a horse he would later reunite with in Hong Kong.
While Hong Kong’s fast-paced racing scene can be overwhelming, Hamelin found his footing quickly. The city challenged him, but also shaped him. He departs not just with race wins, but with friendships, personal growth, and memories that will stay with him for life. Hong Kong, as he says, now holds a permanent place in his heart.
Before he exits, Hamelin will take up three final rides at Happy Valley on Wednesday, including Jolly Ruler and Red Majesty. It’s a fitting farewell stage for a rider who has given Hong Kong so many memorable finishes.
The highlight of Wednesday’s meeting is the Class 2 Begonia Handicap over 1800 metres, which promises a competitive lineup. Among the contenders is Cambridge, trained by Pierre Ng and piloted by Zac Purton. Although narrowly defeated last time, the gelding showed promise and will be looking to bounce back. Ng believes Cambridge is maturing well and may have more to offer over staying distances.
Frankie Lor’s Flamingo Trillion will also be in the mix, with the trainer hopeful that the five-year-old can break through after several close finishes. Meanwhile, Ricky Yiu is placing his trust in apprentice Ellis Wong, whose five-pound claim could make all the difference for C P Brave. Yiu highlighted the horse’s consistent trackwork and believes the conditions are favourable for another strong run.
Other runners in the feature include Noisy Boy, Bravehearts, Embraces, Jumbo Legend, Woodfire Bro, Beauty Alliance, Winning Wing, Star Mac, and Packing Hurricane—all capable competitors ready to contest the HK$3.12 million prize.
Yiu also sends out Gracious Express in the Class 3 Cotton Tree Handicap (1200m), eyeing back-to-back wins with the dependable Irish-bred.
The midweek meeting gets underway at 6:40 PM with the Class 5 Hawthorn Handicap and promises another thrilling night under the Happy Valley lights.
