There were umbrellas, there was wind, there was rain — but there was also magic at Sha Tin on Sunday (7 September) as the 2025/26 Hong Kong racing season roared into life in spectacular fashion. The crowd of 43,259 braved the elements and erupted when Ka Ying Rising powered home to claim the HK$3.72 million Class 1 HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup Handicap (1200m), setting the perfect tone for the season ahead.
As Ka Ying Rising crossed the line in 1m 07.63s — just shy of his own track record — his trainer planted a kiss on the champion sprinter’s neck while jockey Zac Purton, already riding high on an incredible five-win day, raised his whip in quiet triumph. The grandstands erupted, rain-soaked but buzzing with energy.
A Perfect Start Despite the Storm
The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s CEO, Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, could hardly hide his pride, calling it “the perfect start of the season” despite a challenging day under a T3 Signal.
“Today was a celebration of outstanding talent — it’s amazing what Ka Ying Rising does,” Engelbrecht-Bresges said. “Having the world’s best sprinter open our season made it extra special, and the excitement he creates for Hong Kong racing is simply remarkable.”
Even with strong winds and heavy rain threatening to derail the day, the track held beautifully — a testament to the Club’s preparation. “I’m proud of the tracks team,” Engelbrecht-Bresges added. “Despite all the rain, the races were run in perfect condition.”
Record Crowds, Big Turnover & Electric Vibes
The season opener was about more than racing. Fans were treated to a live performance by MC Cheung, new on-course attractions, and a vibrant atmosphere despite the weather. Wagering figures confirmed the buzz, with HK$1.399 billion in turnover (including two simulcast races).
The Honourable John KC Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, was among those in attendance, underscoring the event’s significance.
Hong Kong Shines on the International Stage
It wasn’t just Sha Tin that brought glory on Sunday. In Seoul, Jerry Chau delivered a masterclass, riding Self Improvement to victory in the G3 Korea Sprint (1200m, sand) for trainer Manfred Man before narrowly missing a double when Chancheng Glory finished runner-up in the G3 Korea Cup (1800m, sand) for trainer Francis Lui.
Engelbrecht-Bresges hailed the achievements: “The performances of the Hong Kong horses were outstanding. Jerry Chau showed incredible composure against some of the best jockeys in the world, and it’s a credit to him and his trainers.”
Purton’s Five-Timer & Local Talent Flourishing
While Ka Ying Rising stole the spotlight, Zac Purton’s five-win haul was another highlight of the day. The reigning champion jockey’s precision and timing thrilled punters and reinforced his reputation as one of the sport’s elite.
Yet Engelbrecht-Bresges was quick to praise Hong Kong’s homegrown talent, noting the Club’s heavy investment in developing future stars. “Jerry Chau’s riding today in Seoul shows how far our local jockeys have come. It’s exciting to see Hong Kong represented so strongly, both at home and abroad.”
What’s Next for Hong Kong Racing
The action now shifts to Happy Valley on Wednesday night (10 September) for its own season-opening meeting. With Ka Ying Rising’s blistering win setting the tone, anticipation is running high for what promises to be a thrilling 2025/26 racing season.
Catch all the latest updates, race reports, and insights on the Hong Kong racing season at RaceBuzz.
