Trainer Mark Newnham’s trajectory in Hong Kong racing has been nothing short of impressive. Now in just his second season as a handler, the former jockey has already surpassed his debut-year win tally, with a current total of 37 victories. Among the horses driving this success is his rising star, My Wish, who has quickly emerged as a standout in the four-year-old division. With plans to aim even higher next season, Newnham has set his sights on the prestigious LONGINES Hong Kong Mile.
Newnham’s roots in racing run deep, with a career spanning over three decades. He gained valuable experience working under two of Australia’s most renowned trainers and was no stranger to elite company during his time in the saddle. Transitioning to training in 2016, he built a strong reputation in Sydney, collecting several Group 1 victories before relocating to Hong Kong.
My Wish recently competed in the HK$24 million FWD Champions Mile, finishing a game fourth behind more seasoned rivals. Despite being the least experienced in the field, he held his own admirably, capping off a season that began with a modest rating and ended with him climbing significantly in the rankings. His steady development and consistency have given Newnham the confidence to plan a campaign targeting international honours later this year.
The compact but mighty gelding has had a remarkable season, highlighted by a victory in the Hong Kong Classic Mile and runner-up finishes in both the Classic Cup and Hong Kong Derby. Notably, he produced a blistering finishing time in the Derby, one of the fastest ever recorded at Sha Tin over 2000 metres, signaling his ability to match strides with the best.
Now, with a well-earned break on the horizon, My Wish will rest ahead of a potential tilt at December’s LONGINES Hong Kong Mile—an event that would mark a major milestone in Newnham’s Hong Kong journey. The trainer is also considering a return to the Champions Mile next spring, banking on further growth and maturity from his talented charge.
Elsewhere in the stable, Newnham remains active as the season continues. He’s preparing a quartet of runners for the upcoming Wednesday night card at Happy Valley, including Mission Strike, who will be partnered by leading jockey Zac Purton. After showing promise in recent starts, the gelding will sport blinkers in hopes of sharpening his focus and converting potential into victory.
The trainer believes Mission Strike is still in the learning phase, but the raw ability is clearly there. With more experience, the young horse could develop into another capable performer for the yard.
Fellow second-season trainer Cody Mo is also making his mark, notching up 33 wins so far. He’ll saddle Flying Fortress, who is fresh off a confident last-start win. Jockey Harry Bentley, who will ride again, noted the horse is still growing into himself and believes there’s more to come once he learns to settle during races.
Adding to the excitement on the night is sprinter Colourful King, trained by David Eustace and ridden by Andrea Atzeni. Despite being relatively new to the Hong Kong circuit, the Australian import has already made waves with two wins from his first three outings. Though he faces older, seasoned runners in his next test, his light weight and continued improvement make him a fascinating contender.
As Happy Valley prepares to host its nine-race program, anticipation is high for what promises to be a thrilling evening of action. For Newnham, the night offers another step forward in what is quickly becoming a standout chapter in his training career.
