Zac Purton is set to make a highly anticipated return to racing as he reunites with the exceptional sprinter, Ka Ying Rising, in the prestigious HK$5.35 million G2 Sprint Cup (1200m) at Sha Tin on Sunday, March 30. The world’s highest-rated sprinter is in pursuit of his 11th consecutive victory, further cementing his status among Hong Kong’s elite racehorses.
The four-year-old gelding currently holds a remarkable winning streak, placing him alongside Co-Tack and Beauty Generation, both with 10 successive wins. Should he triumph again this weekend, he will continue to close in on the legendary records of Silent Witness (17 consecutive wins) and Golden Sixty (16).
Purton, a seven-time Hong Kong champion jockey, has been sidelined since February 9 due to a foot injury. His return to the saddle comes with a strong book of nine rides over the weekend, highlighted by his much-awaited partnership with Ka Ying Rising. Expressing his admiration for the sprinter, Purton commended his consistent performance, resilience, and exceptional nature both on and off the track.
Ka Ying Rising’s dominance this season includes impressive victories in the LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) and the Centenary Sprint Cup (1200m), where he shattered Sha Tin’s 1200m course record with a blistering time of 1:07.20. With Purton temporarily out of action, Karis Teetan guided the sprinter to another Group 1 success in the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (1400m) last month.
Trainer David Hayes remains confident in Ka Ying Rising’s form, stating that the gelding has been performing exceptionally well in trials. He believes the sprinter’s physical condition is at its peak, making him a strong contender to maintain his undefeated streak. Despite carrying 128 pounds and conceding weight to six competitors, including the formidable Helios Express, Hayes remains optimistic about his charge’s ability to dominate once again.
Helios Express has finished runner-up to Ka Ying Rising on four occasions this season and will benefit from a 5-pound advantage this time. Hayes acknowledged the challenge but emphasized that Ka Ying Rising has consistently outperformed his rivals under level weights, solidifying his position as the race favorite.
Beyond the Sprint Cup, Purton and Hayes will also team up with Ka Ying Rising’s half-brother, Ka Ying Glory, who makes his debut in the Class 4 Plantation Handicap (1200m) following an impressive trial at Happy Valley.
Meanwhile, veteran trainer Tony Cruz remains hopeful that California Spangle will regain his best form after a series of unplaced finishes. The experienced galloper seeks his first win of the season and his 14th career victory. Cruz, who also saddles Beauty Joy and La City Blanche in the HK$5.35 million G2 Chairman’s Trophy (1600m), is particularly optimistic about Beauty Joy’s condition following an extended recovery from an elbow issue.
Sha Tin’s thrilling 10-race card on Sunday, March 30, will kick off with the Class 4 Severn Handicap (2000m) at 12:45 PM, setting the stage for a day of high-stakes racing action.
