There was a noticeable tension in the air at Sha Tin on Tuesday morning as riders checked their final bookings ahead of Wednesday night’s meeting. Smiles were thin but hopeful, and even the normally composed Vincent Ho allowed himself a rare moment of reflection as he spoke to well-wishers trackside. With only two places still open for the LONGINES International Jockeys’ Championship, the sense of anticipation has become unmistakable.
Ho (11 wins) enters the crucial Happy Valley fixture holding a narrow lead over fellow homegrown rider Jerry Chau (10), with both set for four rides each. Meanwhile, the second available berth is being hotly contested by Luke Ferraris (15) and Hugh Bowman (14), promising a gripping finale under lights.
Bowman, who triumphed in the 2016 edition, looked relaxed but resolute as he shared his thoughts.
“It’s fantastic. I think it leads the way as far as jockeys’ challenges go around the world; it’s always a great night to be part of,” he said. “Hopefully, I can add another one to the list. It will depend on results tomorrow night.”
Ferraris is also booked for four mounts, while Bowman has five, including promising British import Hakka Radiance (129lb) in the Class 4 St Andrew’s Challenge Quaich Handicap (1800m), a horse aiming for his fourth straight win for trainer Danny Shum.
“I’ve ridden him in a gallop between his last win and this start – he feels fantastic,” Bowman noted. “He’s really in a great vein of form and hopefully he can continue his winning ways.”
The LONGINES International Jockeys’ Championship remains one of world racing’s most prestigious jockey showcases. Last season’s leading rider Zac Purton returns, joined by defending champion Mickael Barzalona, James McDonald, Christophe Lemaire, Joao Moreira, Umberto Rispoli, Hollie Doyle, Rachel King, William Buick and Ryan Moore (subject to fitness).
Ho, who captured the title in 2023, remains characteristically grounded.
“You treat every race the same, you want to win races and that’s it,” he said. “After seven months off, I’m proud to still be competing with these guys.”
Now a Group 1 star through celebrated partnerships with Golden Sixty, Loves Only You, Stronger and Southern Legend, Ho has 621 victories in Hong Kong. He closes his Wednesday book aboard King Miles (131lb), who steps out from gate nine for trainer Francis Lui in the Class 3 Culloden Bridge Handicap (1200m).
“He’s feeling well and showing freshness. Hopefully, he can do better tomorrow,” Ho said.
Karis Teetan also expects a competitive run from Kyrus Dragon (135lb), a three-time winner over the track and trip.
“When he’s fresh, he’s a better horse,” Teetan said. “He’s got a nice gate again.”
If riders finish tied on wins, places will be determined by second placings and, if necessary, third placings.
Wednesday’s (26 November) nine-race card begins at 6.40pm with the Class 5 Forth Road Bridge Handicap (1200m) at Happy Valley.
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