The crowd erupted as Caspar Fownes, Hong Kong’s four-time champion trainer, celebrated a sensational night at Happy Valley, sealing a quartet of victories that showcased his mastery of the Valley track. With a mix of determination, tactical brilliance, and sheer luck, Fownes lifted his career tally at the venue to 633 wins, further cementing his status as one of the city’s top trainers.
The night began with a bang as Ellis Wong delivered a race-to-race double aboard Silver Spurs and Mighty Commander, each horse executing their runs with precision. Rocket Spade, guided by Hugh Bowman, and Lo Rider, under the watchful hands of Harry Bentley, rounded out the remarkable sequence.
“Half the card, so very happy – it’s a good night. I thought I would have a good night coming here tonight but racing is racing. You always need some luck,” Fownes said after Lo Rider (121lb) claimed the HK$3 million PP Bonus in the Class 2 Shek O Handicap (1650m). The victory marked a fitting climax for a trainer who has built a dynasty at Happy Valley.
Lo Rider, a former Irish runner known as Sharinay, has steadily progressed since joining Fownes’ stable. “I’m very proud of him. He’s a chance to continue on. Being a European horse, he’s settling into the Hong Kong system nicely,” Fownes added.
Jockey Ellis Wong reflected on his own achievements: “It’s good, especially to have these winners for Caspar, he gives me a lot of support. Both horses ran well, so it’s great.”
Silver Spurs, overcoming a previous lung infection and pastern injuries, triumphed in the Class 5 Chung Hom Kok Handicap (1000m) at his 11th start, while Mighty Commander surged late for his second career win in Hong Kong. Rocket Spade continued to assert himself with a determined finish in the Class 3 Community Chest Cup Handicap (1650m).
Elsewhere, Karis Teetan opened his season with a stunning win on Forever Folks (121lb) in the Class 4 Lido Handicap (1800m), recovering from a slow start to storm past the field. Teetan also partnered with Danny Shum’s Master Champion (135lb) to secure the first section of the Class 4 Hoi Mei Handicap (1200m), while Lyle Hewitson and Mark Newnham captured the third section with King Lotus (135lb).
Tony Cruz and Matthew Chadwick celebrated another Happy Valley landmark as Superb Capitalist (135lb) claimed his sixth course victory in the Class 3 Repulse Bay Handicap (1000m), pushing his career earnings beyond HK$10 million.
Hong Kong racing action continues at Sha Tin on Sunday, promising more thrilling contests as trainers and jockeys look to build on early-season momentum.
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