The lights of Happy Valley glimmered brightly on Wednesday night, but it was the drama on the turf that truly captivated the crowd. Ryan Moore, returning from a femur stress fracture that sidelined him for months, reminded everyone why he is considered among the world’s elite jockeys with a masterful display to claim a third LONGINES International Jockeys’ Championship (IJC).
The championship was wide open until the final leg. Heading into the 4th round, four riders were tied on 12 points, making for a nail-biting climax under the points system that rewards 12 for a win, six for second, and four for third. Hugh Bowman, Moore, and William Buick had all picked up a winner, while Zac Purton stayed in contention with two second-place finishes.
Moore’s decisive moment came aboard Triumphant More (130lb) in the 4th Leg over 1200 metres. The horse was closer to last than first turning for home, yet Moore guided him expertly through a crowded field to edge out Umberto Rispoli’s mount and Tourbillon Golfer (121lb) by three-quarters of a length.
“It’s fortunate I had two very good rides today and it worked out nicely for me,” Moore said. “I’m just thankful to be back here, and I had the luck tonight.” Moore had also won the 2nd Leg on Corleone (134lb) over 1650 metres for Caspar Fownes, further cementing his dominance.
William Buick enjoyed a milestone moment with Bunta Baby (123lb) in the opening 1000-metre leg. After 11 starts without a win in Hong Kong, the horse showed a late surge to overcome Purton and Beauty Thunder (126lb), marking Buick’s first victory at Happy Valley.
Bowman had a quieter start but made his mark in the 3rd Leg over 1650 metres aboard Silvery Breeze (131lb). Patiently waiting for a gap, Bowman guided the David Eustace-trained mount past Purton and Flying Fortress (134lb) in stylish fashion.
Trainers also had their share of glory. Caspar Fownes claimed the LONGINES IJC trainers’ bonus with 16 points, narrowly edging Cody Mo’s total of 16 on countback. Fownes earned HK$300,000, while Mo collected HK$125,000. The third-place prize of HK$75,000 was shared by Eustace, Lor, and Man, all finishing with 12 points.
Among the highlights on the undercard, four-time Hong Kong champion Joao Moreira thrilled the crowd with two wins, piloting Family Fortune (123lb) and Lucky Generations (118lb) to success, while trainers Francis Lui, Danny Shum, and Michael Chang also celebrated victories.
Hong Kong racing now turns its gaze to Sha Tin for the HK$130 million LONGINES Hong Kong International Races on Sunday, 14 December, promising another week of top-class competition.
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