Karis Teetan added another memorable chapter to his remarkable Sha Tin record on Thursday, guiding David Hayes-trained Storm Rider to a pulsating victory in the HK$4.2 million G3 Chinese Club Challenge Cup Handicap (1400m). The Mauritian jockey’s fourth triumph in the event showcased his enduring connection with the race, having previously won aboard Fifty Fifty (2018), Champion’s Way (2021), and Patch Of Theta (2025).
Storm Rider, carrying just 115lb, displayed tenacity and composure under Teetan’s hands, overtaking Dancing Code (116lb) in the final strides to win by a short head in a time of 1m 20.62s. Patch Of Theta (134lb) finished a neck behind in third, ensuring another thrilling finish for the feature event.
Rated 86 before the race, Storm Rider impressed Hayes with his potential to reach triple figures. “He’s a horse capable of going above 100,” Hayes said. “The barrier was a concern, but Karis rode beautifully and once he found his rhythm, it was always going to be hard to beat with that light weight.”
Teetan credited the horse’s preparation and the trainer’s strategy for the win. “His trial last week was excellent, and David was confident. He told me, ‘Go forward and make our own luck.’ Storm Rider responded perfectly,” the jockey said.
Elsewhere on Thursday, Harry Bentley steered Frankie Lor-trained Smart Golf (128lb) to an emphatic win in the first section of the Class 4 Hillwood Handicap (1200m), showcasing a horse poised for higher-grade contests. “He’s a nice type who should climb the ranks,” Bentley said.
Mark Newnham reclaimed the trainers’ championship lead when Infinite Resolve (129lb), formerly Deconstruction in Australia, surged to victory in the first section of the Class 3 Cha Kwo Ling Handicap (1200m) under Hugh Bowman. With 27 wins this season and a PP Bonus of HK$1.5 million for Infinite Resolve, Newnham edges Caspar Fownes in a tight contest at the top.
John Size also made his mark as Endued (135lb) won the Class 4 Lei Muk Shue Handicap (1600m) under Maxime Guyon, moving him into the top 10 in the trainers’ standings. Size remarked, “It’s very important to start the New Year positively. I just have to keep chipping away.”
Other notable performances included Iron Legion (129lb) for Tony Cruz and Angus Chung, Joy Capital (128lb) in a blanket finish, Riding High (132lb) for Douglas Whyte, and Rising Force (117lb) delivering a stylish return from injury under Richard Kingscote.
Hong Kong racing continues at Sha Tin on Sunday, 4 January, with the HK$4.2 million G3 Bauhinia Sprint Trophy Handicap (1000m) promising more speed, skill, and excitement.
The Sha Tin race result 1 January saw Storm Rider, under Karis Teetan, claim a thrilling victory in the Chinese Club Challenge Cup, setting the tone for an exciting start to the year. For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz.