Hong Kong racing takes a bold step onto the international stage as the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) confirms its first-ever dedicated team for the 2026 Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup at Ascot on Saturday, 8 August. The 25th running of the prestigious jockeys’ competition, now staged under the World Pool banner, promises to highlight the global reach and depth of top-class talent in Hong Kong.
The newly formed HKJC team will replace last year’s Asia team, featuring three Hong Kong-licensed jockeys led by Vincent Ho. Ho, a graduate of the HKJC Apprentice Jockeys’ School, is celebrated for his long-standing partnership with legendary Golden Sixty, the three-time Hong Kong Horse of the Year with 26 wins including ten Group 1 triumphs. His appointment as team captain underlines the professionalism and calibre of Hong Kong’s home-grown racing talent.
Ho brings prior Shergar Cup experience to the role, having competed in 2019 as part of the Rest of the World team. He notably secured the Shergar Cup Mile aboard Power Of Darkness, demonstrating his tactical skill and international competitiveness. “Returning to the Shergar Cup as captain is a tremendous honour,” said Ho. “It’s a unique chance to showcase the strength and depth of Hong Kong racing on a world stage.”
Andrew Harding, HKJC Executive Director, Racing, highlighted the significance of the debut: “The Hong Kong Jockey Club is proud to field our own team at Ascot this year. Vincent Ho exemplifies the excellence of our Apprentice Jockeys’ School, and this initiative reflects both the star-quality riders we have and our commitment to contributing to global racing events.”
The 2026 Shergar Cup, now enhanced under the World Pool system, will feature six races attracting elite international jockeys. HKJC joins established teams including Great Britain & Ireland, Ladies, and Rest of the World, further cementing the event’s reputation as a showcase of top-tier talent. With World Pool integration, the Cup gains an unprecedented level of international engagement, allowing racing fans worldwide to witness the contest on a truly global scale.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s participation marks a milestone in international racing, highlighting the jurisdiction’s commitment to excellence and fostering connections across the racing world. Vincent Ho and his HKJC team will aim to make a memorable debut, demonstrating the skills, professionalism, and competitive spirit Hong Kong racing is renowned for.
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