An extraordinary 2024/25 Hong Kong racing season drew to a close at Happy Valley on Wednesday (16 July), concluding one of the greatest chapters in Hong Kong racing history. The individual and collective feats of Hong Kong’s equine titans – Ka Ying Rising, Romantic Warrior and Voyage Bubble – elevated Hong Kong’s world-class racing onto an even higher plane during a record-breaking and historic season. Led by Ka Ying Rising, Romantic Warrior and Voyage Bubble, Hong Kong’s champion horses won 11 of the world’s top Group 1 races in 2024/25, while eight of the city’s elite races were included in the 2024 LONGINES World’s Top 100 Group/Grade 1 races, demonstrating the enduring quality of the Club’s racing. Additionally, 12 Hong Kong-trained horses received an international rating of 115 or higher in the year-ending 2024 LONGINES World’s Best Racehorse Rankings. In particular, by the end of the 2024/25 season, Romantic Warrior and Ka Ying Rising, both at a rating of 126, are at joint-fourth place with Delacroix in the LONGINES World’s Best Racehorse Rankings behind Field Of Gold, Forever Young and Ombudsman (all 127), while Voyage Bubble, at a rating of 121, was joint 15th. This is an incredible accomplishment given Hong Kong has a pool of about 1,300 horses in training – or less than 1% of the world’s racehorse population. Acknowledging these achievements, the Club’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, said: “It’s been an amazing season, with outstanding performances by top horses that have truly captured the imagination of fans not just in Hong Kong but around the world. Since the Policy Address of HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee, we have been able to attract even more Mainland and overseas tourists, who have come to our racecourses in record numbers to experience our city’s signature sport for themselves. These achievements strengthen the position of Hong Kong racing as a world-class sport and entertainment experience. They have also made an important contribution to Hong Kong tourism as well as underlining Hong Kong’s vital role as a centre for East-West exchange.” The quality of Hong Kong horses was again illustrated at Hong Kong’s two international flagship events, the LONGINES Hong Kong International Races and FWD Champions Day. Competing against 41 overseas runners from seven different nations and jurisdictions, Hong Kong’s finest triumphed in five of seven Group 1 features. Three flagbearer horses shared the spotlight in Hong Kong and also on the global stage. Ka Ying Rising became only the third Hong Kong horse to win eight races in a single season, and also gained the status as the world’s top-rated sprinter with four Group 1 victories and twice breaking Sha Tin’s 1200m course record – a mark which had been held by Sacred Kingdom since 2007. In doing so, he stretched his winning streak to 12 races, the third-longest in Hong Kong racing history behind Silent Witness (17 races) and Golden Sixty (16 races). Ka Ying Rising’s invincible season also saw him become the fifth horse to capture the three-race Hong Kong Speed Series bonus of HK$5 million, following his victories in the G1 Centenary Sprint Cup (1200m), G1 Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (1400m) and G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m). Romantic Warrior’s globetrotting heroics continued with victory in the G1 Jebel Hatta (1800m) in Dubai in a track-record time. Adding to victories in Hong Kong, Japan and Australia over the past two seasons, Romantic Warrior became the first Hong Kong-trained horse to win G1 races in four different racing jurisdictions. His narrow defeats in the G1 Saudi Cup (1800m, dirt) and the G1 Dubai Turf (1800m), where he placed second in both races, served only to underscore his champion status, as well as making him the world’s richest racehorse in terms of career earnings. Voyage Bubble became the city’s second Triple Crown winner, and first in 31 years, by matching the feat of River Verdon with victories in the G1 Stewards’ Cup (1600m), G1 Citi Hong Kong Gold Cup (2000m) and G1 Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup (2400m) in the same season. In addition to champion horses, this season saw our top trainers and jockeys add new laurels to their crowns. John Size advanced to a record-extending 13th Hong Kong trainers’ championship with 69 wins, while Zac Purton was crowned Hong Kong champion jockey for an eighth time with 138 victories, as Matthew Poon won the Tony Cruz Award for leading home-grown jockey. Zac Purton surpassed Douglas Whyte’s record of 1,813 Hong Kong wins for a jockey and finished the season with 1,878 victories, while Size made it past the 1,600 Hong Kong-win milestone. “Hong Kong racing is truly world class and I am immensely proud of the performances of our champion horses, jockeys and trainers. The achievements of amazing horses such as Ka Ying Rising, Romantic Warrior and Voyage Bubble reflect the expertise, dedication and passion of our trainers and jockeys as well as the strong commitment of our owners, who continue to make significant investments to secure the best available equine talent,” Mr Engelbrecht-Bresges said. “Rewarding and incentivising horse owners for their tremendous contributions is a priority for the Club. Their contributions create economic and social benefits through their investment to bring overseas quality horses to Hong Kong. In 2024/25, we introduced a suite of initiatives including an enhanced Private Purchase Bonus Scheme of HK$1.5 million for eligible horses, an investment of HK$140 million to reduce livery fees and to increase travel subsidies for Hong Kong owners to export their retired horses by HK50,000 per horse. “Thanks to these and other initiatives in the 2024/25 season, Hong Kong’s horse population significantly increased from 1,203 horses in June 2024 to 1,296 (as of 30 June). Notably, the number of horses in Class 3 and above rose from 414 in 2023/24 to 441 in 2024/25. In addition, applications for 2026/27 Horse Import Permits increased by 11.9%, with submissions for both Private Purchase (PP) and Private Purchase Griffin (PPG) permits, while the success of syndicate ownership continues to stand out.” Since the current bonus format was introduced in the 2023/24 racing season to incentivise horse ownership, 93 horses have earned Class 3 PP Bonuses totalling HK$139.5 million. Including the PPG Bonus, ISG (International Sale Griffin) Bonus, Class 2 PP Bonus and Top-Up Bonus, HK$55 million has been paid to owners of 43 winning horses. Five PPs who contested the 2025 BMW Hong Kong Derby collected a HK$1.5 million bonus each for winning in Class 3, and the Derby victor Cap Ferrat won the Class 2 and Class 3 combined bonuses when winning the Derby. To promote syndicate horse ownership, during the 2024/2025 season the Club relaxed the cap on the number of syndicates any one member can join from four to seven, while the number of horses any one owner can own at any one time increased from five to seven. Two of Hong Kong’s best horses – Ka Ying Rising and Voyage Bubble – are raced by syndicates, while Group 1 winner Invincible Sage and Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m) victor Rubylot are also raced by groups of owners. Record prize money and increased prize money for Group 1 events With total prize money at a record level of HK$1.74 billion, the Club’s Group 1 races, particularly those staged on its flagship racedays, the LONGINES Hong Kong International Races and FWD Champions Day, are highly regarded for the global fields of equine talent they attract. To uphold their prestige, the Club will offer record prize money totalling HK$208 million in these races in the 2025/26 season through increases of HK$2 million for four feature races. For FWD Champions Day, prize money for the FWD QEII Cup will rise to HK$30 million, while the Chairman’s Sprint Prize will increase to HK$24 million, taking the total prize money for the three G1 races to a total of HK$78 million. For the international day in December, the increases apply to the LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint, with prize money rising to HK$28 million, and the LONGINES Hong Kong Vase, rising to HK$26 million, while the LONGINES Hong Kong Mile stays on HK$36 million and the LONGINES Hong Kong Cup will be run for prize money of HK$40 million, taking the total Group 1 prize money purse to HK$130 million. Conghua Racecourse Once again Conghua Racecourse, with its state-of-the-art training and rehabilitation facilities has been vital to the success of the season. On average, 440 horses were trained in CRC this season, with 219 horses from 19 stables notching 302 wins, an increase of 17.7% and 24.3% respectively on last season. The Club is well-advanced in its preparations for the start of regular racing at Conghua in October 2026, with the iconic grandstand nearing completion. Together, Sha Tin, Happy Valley and Conghua will form a triangle of racecourses that will showcase the world-class quality of the Club’s horse racing sport combined with entertainment. It will promote the Greater Bay Area as a premier tourist destination. Most importantly, it will also advance the Club’s support for the National Equine Industry Development Plan, which seeks to develop a high-quality equine industry in the Mainland. “The contribution of Conghua Racecourse to horse training and care has been nothing short of remarkable. But with the start of international-standard racing in October 2026, Conghua, and the Club, will enter a whole new era. Our aim is to make Conghua a truly iconic and must-go destination, a place not only to enjoy the best racing but also to be truly inspired about all forms of horse sports. There will be an experience centre featuring cutting-edge audio-visuals to engage visitors with an appreciation of the horse and there will be retail, dining and online experiences, all integrated with our racing. We want to make Conghua a truly memorable day out for everyone who visits,” Mr Engelbrecht-Bresges said. Total attendance and growing share of Mainland and overseas visitors This season total racecourse attendance was over 1.7 million, including a record 195,786 Mainland tourists, plus international visitors. This was a significant 110% increase on the 93,000 Mainland tourists who visited last season. In particular, major racedays set new records for tourist attendance, with the Chinese New Year Raceday, BMW Hong Kong Derby and FWD Champions Day meetings each attracting 9,000 tourists. These included high-end international tourists for our flagship LONGINES Hong Kong International Races and FWD Champions Day. The HKSAR Chief Executive’s recognition of horse racing tourism in his Policy Address created new momentum for the Club to take racing tourism to the next level, as did the incorporation of racing tourism into the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 and the establishment of a ground-breaking strategic partnership between the Club and China Travel Service (Holdings) Hong Kong Limited to strengthen the promotion of tourism within the Greater Bay Area, including racecourse tourism. To enhance the quality of the racegoing experience for both regular and tourist racegoers, the Club launched new and upgraded dining and entertainment venues at the racecourses. These included The Beat and Vantage at Happy Valley Racecourse, providing an innovative digital racecourse experience utilising artificial intelligence, while at Sha Tin Racecourse the opening of the renovated Champion Circle and Inner Circle in time for visitors attending FWD Champions Day strengthened the Club’s capability to receive both high-end and general tourists. The Club also strengthened its famous Happy Wednesday brand at Happy Valley Racecourse – one of the must-dos for tourists visiting Hong Kong – with nine different themed race-night parties, boosting total attendance for the season to around 548,000, a 3.9% increase. At the thrilling season finale meeting at Happy Valley Racecourse yesterday (16 July), there was an exciting jockey parade, with all our jockeys thanking racing fans for their support during the season. “It has been a real pleasure to welcome so many tourists from overseas and the Mainland to our racecourses and to see how much they appreciate the unique quality of our racecourse experience, which is truly like no other. Next season there will be even more to impress them, including an entirely new arrival experience at Sha Tin Racecourse,” Mr Engelbrecht-Bresges said. To strengthen online-to-offline engagement, the HKJC Priority Programme has been upgraded to enhance the customer experience in earning and redeeming WINS Rewards throughout the year. Customers can now enjoy greater flexibility in redeeming rewards for racecourse food and beverage offerings at our venues, as well as spending on “Gift at Races,” all while enjoying exclusive Priority services and privileges such as behind-the-scenes racing-related events. The Classic 3-in-1 App has also been enhanced to offer a more interactive and personalised experience. Racing fans can explore a wider variety of content, including tailored racing analytics and real-time event broadcasts. Additionally, the racecourse digital experience continues to improve, with new features such as racecourse wayfinding and venue booking now available within the app, making visits more seamless and enjoyable. Turnover In total, racing fans enjoyed 88 race meetings this season, including seven summer series fixtures, comprising 847 Hong Kong races and 393 overseas simulcast races. Total racing wagering turnover for the season was HK$138.85 billion, representing a 3.0% increase on the 2023/24 season. This is a very encouraging return to growth after the 4.5% decline last season, and reflects the success of strategies introduced last year. The growth in racing turnover was driven primarily by optimised jackpot offerings, improved field sizes, increased Mainland and international sports tourism, and the continued success of globalising Hong Kong Racing via commingling combined with the Club’s international simulcast under World Pool Strategy. Hong Kong has developed into a centre of excellence for global racing wagering. Notably, Hong Kong races attracted record commingling turnover of HK$31.76 billion, a 10.1% increase on the 2023/24 season. This strong trend reflects the high profile of Hong Kong racing internationally, with 26 countries and more than 70 partners now commingling on Hong Kong racing. A notable highlight was achieved at the Chinese New Year Raceday in January, with commingling turnover surging by 23.7% to HK$510.4 million, setting a new record in the process and surpassing HK$500 million for the first time. Hong Kong fans were able to enjoy more of the world’s finest races this season thanks to the Government’s approval of additional simulcasts. The Club offered 393 simulcast races in 2024/25 season, a 7% increase on the 368 during the previous 12 months, with enhanced racing information being provided for overseas customers. The simulcast schedule focused on showcasing the world’s Top 100 Group/Grade 1 races, highlighting the global nature of Hong Kong wagering. In total, 71 overseas races that had been in the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities’ (IFHA) Top 100 at least once during the previous three years were simulcast, up from 61 the previous season. Overall, turnover on simulcasting (including World Pool commingling) for the season was up by 2.3% to HK$13.11 billion. With the approval of the HKSAR Government to progressively increase the number of simulcast events over the coming two racing seasons, starting from 2025/26, the maximum number of simulcast days will be increased from 37 to 53 in 2025/26 and to 70 in 2026/27, while the maximum number of simulcast races will be increased from 25 currently to 40 from 2025/26 and to 55 from 2026/27. This will enable the Club’s simulcast fixtures to cover most of the IFHA’s World’s Top 100 Group/Grade 1 races and subsequently enhance our ability to combat illegal horse race betting and solidify Hong Kong’s position in global horse racing wagering. Through the World Pool, the Club aims to offer global parimutuel wagering with deep liquidity on the very best international races. This season, the number of World Pool races increased from 258 to 296 including, for the first time, all 12 of the Club’s Group 1 races as well as top races from New Zealand. Commingling turnover into the World Pool (excluding Club races) recorded an 8.4% increase over last season.

By PA Sport Reporters Minnie Hauk, who got the better of a thrilling tussle with her stable companion Whirl to win the Oaks at Epsom, will face a maximum of eight rivals when she aims to double up in the Juddmonte Irish Oaks at the Curragh on Saturday. The Frankel filly, who had won a trial at Chester prior to gaining Classic success, has been waiting for this weekend while Whirl has already franked the form by beating the year-older Kalpana in the Pretty Polly Stakes. Her trainer Aidan O’Brien has not been as dominant in the Irish Oaks as the Irish Derby, but he still holds the record for the most wins with seven, with Savethelastdance two years ago his most recent. As ever, the main danger to the ante-post odds-on favourite could come from within Ballydoyle. Whirl has been left in, but O’Brien did suggest after she won the Pretty Polly that the big two would be kept apart. Bedtime Story, Butterfly Wings, Island Hopping and Merrily complete the six-strong entry for the yard. Fozzy Stack’s Bay Colony, Johnny Murtagh’s Subsonic and Joseph O’Brien’s Wemightakedlongway are the only other confirmations. O’Brien also has four of the eight in the GAIN Railway Stakes, including Queen Mary winner True Love. First Approach, Flushing Meadows and Puerto Rico are his others, while Joseph O’Brien could run Green Sense. Adrian Murray’s Power Blue and the Ger Lyons-trained Learntodoscover are also possibles. George Baker’s Desert Cop, Mick and David Easterby’s in-form Canon’s House and Mick Appleby’s Kodi Lion are among 19 left in the Kwiff Supercharged Betting Scurry Handicap, for which Big Gossey tops the weights.

The Selangor card of racing this Sunday on class alone has been regarded as one of the best programs seen in Malaysia for a long time with the high graded sprinters well catered for in the Pacific Cup (1200m) and Supreme B contest (1600m). Added to the mix is the UPBH Platinum Club Trophy for Class 3 performers. However, Sunday’s program will be the showcase for the country’s best four-year-olds featuring the RM 1,000,000 Selangor Mile (Race 9) plus the RM 100,00 A Plus Selangor Silver over 1400m (Race 10). There are two previous Group One winners engaged in the feature and both are likely to head the markets for the Selangor Mile. ANTIPODEAN (Br 11) and LUCKY MAGIC (Br 5), due to their records at this level and over the distance, have excellent chances of winning in a race where only seven of the sixteen runners have won over the mile previously. Jockey Bernardo Pinheiro will be reacquainted with ANTIPODEAN for the first time since they combined to win the G1 Selangor Gold Cup last year. The pairing of Pinheiro and ANTIPODEAN has been a formidable combination with Pinheiro riding the gelding to four wins from four mounts. The gelding has returned to his original trainer Simon Dunderdale and he does possess the class factor to strike back despite the 59kg impost. Not only is duel G1 winner LUCKY MAGIC a classy performer but is versatile as well scoring from 1200 up to his two group victories over the 2000m trip. The gelding hasn’t started since winning the last race ever contested at the Penang Turf Club on May 31 but the gelding does seem to thrive when his runs are well spaced. LUCKY MAGIC is relatively lightly raced with only the twelve career starts so far amassing seven wins, including two at G1 level and is unbeaten in two starts over the track and distance. PACIFIC VICTORY (Br 13) has been dealt a blow with the barrier draw, however he has the early speed to overcome that obstacle and could provide the value. The 4YO Sprint Championship winner is in career best form with six wins from ten local starts and apprentice Jerlyn Seow has ridden the gelding to seven wins from eleven rides. If there is an outsider to upset the higher rated opposition, the two former Australian gallopers in GOOD STAR and SHINJUKU have shown potential and may be worth contemplating for the trifectas. The 1300m A Plus Selangor Silver is virtually the consolation to the main event and the Joseph Leck trained HONESTY should appreciate the drop in class back to his own age group. After successive wins in Class 3 company, he has performed well against quality opposition in two subsequent efforts. Forced to work hard from a wide draw he lost no admirers when finishing runner up to PACIFIC VICTORY in the 4YO Sprint Championship on June 15 prior to finishing 3rd behind Gold Vase winner, Filial Dragon in the UK Stable (Thailand) Trophy three weeks ago. The clash between talented sprinters SUPER SALUTE and PACIFIC VAMPIRE should provide another highlight in the 1200m Pacific Cup (Race 6). PACIFIC VAMPIRE took some time to adapt to his new environment after crossing the causeway but his last four runs suggest the penny has finally dropped and is back to his best form. A noted fast beginner, he will be vying for early supremacy with the nimble SUPER SALUTE, setting up an enthralling clash over the sprint journey. SUPER SALUTE will be coming off the seven-day backup following his second placing in the G1 Perak Gold Vase when he flashed home late.

Rachel Venniker, back in action after a leg break, rides for Michael Roberts at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Sunday and partners Black Frost in the opener. The gelding’s shown ability, ran well here before, and Venniker’s 1.5kg claim boosts his chances.

Bourbon’s Beast improved last time and the Whitehead stable is firing. Mohave Prince should improve with experience, while Kannemeyer’s regally bred Green Gateway debuts and is worth a market watch.

Chimes At Midnight, Zimbabwe-bred, has two good runs and should be competitive with a 4kg claimer in Race 2. Miss Kansas disappointed last run but has a big chance if bouncing back to her debut form. Dream Decision should come on from a green debut, while consistent Queen Fenn can be thereabouts.

Race 3 looks open. Catch A Penny has never missed the money in nine starts and should be there again despite facing males. Next Of Kin was a beaten favourite last time but is progressive. Digital Asset keeps improving and should run well.

Flying South may be the day’s best bet for Glen Kotzen, chasing a quick double. She’s improving and well drawn in a modest field. Miss Twinkle can improve sharply after a green debut.

Stamina is key in the fifth. Lightly weighted Lady My Lady goes 2400m for the first time. Escapologist loves this course and distance. Our Lady Fate is stepping up but should stay.

Icy Eleanor is lightly raced but promising in Race 6, while Vision To Achieve is consistent. Happy Analia gets blinkers; Hurricane Cat is quick and could repeat.

Thesupernovastar improved last time and rates well in Race 7. Beach Palace and Attaboy benefit from senior jockeys. Sail To The Moon is interesting on KZN debut.

In the last, Ethereal View, Radu, Prom Queen, and Skytrix all hold winning claims.

Gavin Lerena, the country’s most in-form jockey, is riding the crest of a wave and currently sits atop the National Jockeys’ standings. As of 16 July, Lerena has a seven-win buffer over Richard Fourie, and continues to churn out the winners with regularity at race meetings across the country. The Highveld’s leading rider will likely add to his season’s tally with a four-timer at the nine-race Standside track fixture at Turffontein on Saturday 19 July. It was only last Thursday that Lerena booted home five of winners, including a double for Johan Janse van Vuuren, and the same jockey-trainer combination should enjoy strike twice again at Turffontein. Well-related Jabari Thimba, a Pathfork half-brother to highly rated Garrix, filled the runners-up berth on debut over 1160m and is good value to open his account under Lerena in Race 3 over 1450m with that experience to count on and improvement expected over the extended trip. Tony Peter-trained The Ultimate King is unbeaten in two starts as a gelding. He made a winning handicap debut under Lerena on the Standside track 10 weeks ago over 1600m and the step up to 2000m in Race 6 will unlock further improvement from the hat-trick seeking three-year-old. Youngster Lava County fits a similar profile and the promising Candice Dawson inmate may have been found an ideal opportunity to follow up his last-start 1500m maiden victory on his handicap bow in Race 7 over 1600m. This two-year-old son of Erupt ran on powerfully under Lerena to defeat older rivals last time and on the evidence of that performance, the extra 100m will be even more to his liking. And the conveyor belt of Lerena-ridden winners will likely churn out another in the form of Obsidian in Race 9 over 1400m. This impressive last-start scorer pulverised his opposition over 1600m six weeks ago and the form of that victory was franked by the runner-up, Birthright, winning subsequently. The progressive three-year-old gelding carries races off a career-high mark under an eight-point penalty but that is unlikely to prevent Van Vuuren’s charge from winning again, with Lerena aboard for the first time. Clive Robinson

Ryan Curatolo continues to make his mark on the international racing stage, returning from a successful stint in Japan where he booted home 24 winners, including a career-defining victory in the Group 1 Oi Kinen. With momentum on his side, the French-born jockey now shifts focus to Malaysia, where he’ll partner with trainer Simon Dunderdale for three key rides at Selangor Turf Club this Sunday, before heading off for his next assignment in Mauritius. Curatolo’s career reads like a passport full of elite racing destinations. From the tactical turf battles of France, to the speed-focused circuits of the USA, the glamour of Dubai’s Meydan, and the strategic challenges of Singapore and Japan, he has tested himself against the best in the business across continents. His ability to adapt, read pace, and form winning partnerships with trainers in vastly different jurisdictions has seen him evolve into one of the most versatile international jockeys on the scene. His recent campaign in Japan was nothing short of outstanding. Riding primarily at NAR (National Association of Racing) tracks, Curatolo notched up 24 wins, highlighted by a commanding performance in the Group 1 Oi Kinen one of the country’s top dirt races and a prestigious addition to any jockey’s résumé. The Oi Kinen victory served as a reminder of Curatolo’s class and composure under pressure. His Japan stint also further cemented his reputation with owners and stables looking for an internationally experienced, result-driven rider. This Sunday, Curatolo will saddle up for three rides at Selangor Turf Club, teaming up with experienced trainer Simon Dunderdale. It’s a quick turnaround from Japan, but nothing new for the well-travelled jockey, who has always embraced new challenges and environments. His tactical nous and ability to ride to local conditions will serve him well in Malaysia, where punters and racing fans will be keen to see him in action after his recent success abroad. But it will only be a short visit to Selangor. Following his Malaysian appearance, Curatolo heads to the island of Mauritius for another exciting stint adding yet another chapter to his global racing story. Known for its passionate racing culture and vibrant racing calendar, Mauritius will be a new stage for Curatolo to showcase his talent and add to his growing international fan base.

Polytrack racing is back in full swing at Fairview on Friday and there are three runners at this meeting who could shine. Four-year-old filly Smashing has been consistent since joining trainer Alan Greeff and should go close to winning Race 6, a MR 70 Handicap for fillies and mares over 1000m. Smashing has won two of her seven starts for Greeff, both victories coming under jockey Richard Fourie, who has ridden her four times. He is back aboard after Andrew Fortune finished an unlucky third on her last time out. Smashing was caught wide that day, but this is unlikely to happen again as she jumps from pole position. She could very well make all the running. She is owned by Hollywood Racing as is her main danger, Sweet Julia, who actually finished ahead of Smashing last time. However, Sweet Julia is badly drawn on this occasion, which could tip the scales in Smashing’s favour. Earlier on the card, Fourie could make amends for supporters of Wild Fig, who lines up in Race 3, a Maiden Plate over 1400m. This colt attempted to make all the running last time out and set a very fast pace. He is likely to get a more patient ride this time and looks the one to beat. Trainer Justin Snaith, who won the final race last Friday with the well-backed Elsinore, can strike again this week with Beer With The Boys in Race 8, a MR 66 Handicap over 2000m. This Silvano gelding has not been beaten by far in handicaps in the Western Cape and could get it right now that he is trying the Polytrack. Clive Robinson

S’manga ‘Bling’ Khumalo and Gavin Lerena look set to dominate Thursday’s 10-race Inside track meeting at Turffontein on 17 July. Followers of both former champion jockeys could see up to seven winners between them if all goes to plan.

Lerena, who widened the gap on Richard Fourie and Craig Zackey with a five-timer at Turffontein last week, is well placed to add four more winners as he bids to reclaim the National Jockeys’ Championship.

His day could kick off strongly in Race 2 with Top Division, an impressive debut winner for Johan Janse van Vuuren. The Gimmethegreenlight colt drew clear over 1000m and should relish the extra 200m with that experience in hand.

In Race 4, Lerena partners Wise Counsel for Lucky Houdalakis. This Fire Away filly ran well in two sprints and should enjoy stepping up to 1450m, being out of a Jet Master mare who won up to 1950m.

Hopscotch, from Fanie Bronkhorst’s yard, could add another Lerena win in Race 5 over 1800m. She ran second over 2000m two starts back and should be hard to beat if reproducing that form.

Lerena’s day could end strongly with Phil The Fluter in Race 10. Robyn Klaasen’s gelding opened his account last month and should double up if handling his handicap debut.

Meanwhile, Khumalo’s 25% strike-rate with Mike & Adam Azzie bodes well for Safe Travel in Race 3 over 1450m. The Elusive Fort colt should improve over further after two solid runs at 1000m.

Khumalo also looks strong on last-start winner Miss Hannigan in Race 8 and consistent Play With Fire in Race 9 — both have solid claims to wrap up a big day for ‘Bling’.

Clive Robinson

Selangor Turf Club (SLTC) is proud to announce the appointment of Mr Paul Summers, a globally respected Master Farrier with over 30 years of distinguished service, to lead its farriery operations at the Club. Mr Summers brings unparalleled expertise honed during his employment at the Singapore Turf Club, significantly enhancing SLTC’s commitment to world-class equine welfare and performance. Mr Summers is a cornerstone figure in Asian farriery. As the first international farrier employed by Singapore Turf Club in 1993, he played a pivotal role in transforming their farriery services to internationally recognised standards. His extensive career encompasses: Leadership & Development: Successfully managing and mentoring large teams (up to 12 farriers), implementing structured apprentice training programs, and driving continuous improvement in farriery practices. Strategic Operations: Overseeing all aspects of farriery operations, including inventory control, billing, rostering, performance appraisals, and KPI management. High-Stakes Expertise: Sole farrier responsibility for critical international events, including shoeing all international racehorses entering Singapore (collaborating with quarantine) and serving as the exclusive farrier for the 2010 Equestrian Youth Olympic Games in Singapore. Veterinary Collaboration: Maintaining a close, productive working relationship with veterinary departments, particularly in remedial and corrective shoeing, reporting directly to senior veterinary surgeons. In his new role at SLTC, Mr. Summers will leverage his vast experience to: Lead and Mentor: Build and develop STC’s farriery team, fostering skills development and implementing best practices. Develop local talent: Establish robust training pathways for local farriers and apprentices, mirroring his successful programs in Singapore. Career Development Opportunity for local farriers: To oversees and implement upskilling and reskilling Programs Ensure Excellence: Guarantee the highest standards of hoof care for all horses racing and training at SLTC, directly contributing to their health, performance, and safety. “We are incredibly fortunate to secure someone of Paul Summers’ calibre and experience,” said Chief Executive Officer of SLTC, Dato’ Michael Fong. “His proven track record in building world-class farriery operations and developing talent is unmatched in the region. His leadership will be instrumental in taking our equine care standards to the next level, directly benefiting our trainers, owners, and most importantly, our horses” added Dato’ Fong.

Wednesday’s polytrack meeting at Hollywoodbets Greyville kicks off with Mike and Mathew de Kock’s Gotta Go Eddie, who’s earned a cheque in all three starts and now faces a modest field. Bingo, a Highveld raider, could improve on the poly. Vencedor and Sovereign Command are also competitive.

In Race 2, Act Of Grace takes on males but stays the trip well and enjoys the poly. The Green Mile is lightly raced and suited to this surface, while Carnarvon and Gripen could surprise if handling the step up in trip.

In the Pick 6 opener, Quinn’s Time holds a Gr1 entry for Gold Cup day and could follow up after an easy maiden win with just 52kg to carry. Lexican Point improved with blinkers off and tries the poly, while Papa C enjoys this surface and the shorter trip suits. Eventidor has won two in a row but is up in the ratings and his form needs to hold.

Afropolitan is one of the better bets for Gareth van Zyl, showing steady progress with a 4kg claim. Moola Man and My Boy Lollipop are dangers, with Blazing Light a value chance at a light weight.

The fifth is open. Whereverilaymyhat is consistent and well drawn. Mask On has found form on the poly, Catavar impressed last time and gets a claim, while Victor Rail drops in trip which should help.

In the sixth, Twenty One May can turn the tables on Thisiswhatitmeanstome, who’s chasing four straight poly wins. Future Flo is reliable, Blue Holly could pop up at a light weight.

Wing Walker, Fate Of Fortune, and Preemptive Strike are all chances in the seventh.

Gimmethegoodlife heads the last for Tony Peter. Super Fast, Hippocrates, and Ibhele are also worth noting.

John Size secured a record-extending 13th Hong Kong trainers’ championship at Sha Tin on Sunday (13 July) as the master trainer embarked on a familiar coronation march with a treble, further burnishing an extraordinary career. Size sealed the championship with the wins of Sight Dreamer, Raging Rapids and Bundle Award to leave the Australian with 69 wins for the season – beyond the reach of compatriot David Hayes (60) – with only nine races left to be run at Wednesday night’s (16 July) Season Finale at Happy Valley. Nearing the end of his 24th season in Hong Kong, Size added to the previous championships he won in 2001/02, 2002/03, 2003/04, 2005/06, 2007/08, 2009/10, 2011/12, 2015/16, 2016/17, 2017/18, 2018/19 and 2022/23, and took his Hong Kong career tally to 1,612 wins – second overall to retired Australian John Moore (1,734). George Moore held the record for the most Hong Kong trainers’ titles with 11 until he was joined in 2018/19 by Size, who has also finished second five times and third three times in the championship. Characteristically modest, Size, 71, was proud and reflective on securing his latest crown. “There’s a lot of satisfaction in that (winning) and probably something I’m very grateful to achieve,” Size said. “It’s a very strong and stiff competition and so therefore you have to rise up to it. “As I’ve said before, I’m surprised that I’ve been so successful in Hong Kong. It’s always been a test of if I can keep performing at that level and, so far, I’ve been able to over 24 years and, God willing, and if my health is still okay, I can do it for a little bit longer.” Rating Red Lion’s HK$24 million G1 FWD Champions Mile (1600m) as the highlight of another glorious season, Size said: “That was a really good example of what can happen on a race track and that’s what makes the game go round – the vagaries of racing, the uncertainties and the unpredictability of it. “Owners, trainers and jockeys should take some encouragement from those sorts of performances. It just proves it can be done if everything is right on the night. That was very satisfying.” Likening the art of training to other sports and vocations, Size described the need to constantly improve as a “natural progression, it’s evolution.” “Like every business, every sport’s the same, training racehorses is no different. You have to keep improving to keep up and you certainly have to be improving to stay ahead, so if you’re doing it for a long period of time, I think it’s hard to stay in a good position for a quarter of a century,” he said. “You don’t see it every day. “So, I get some sort of gratification from that in my innovations and my attempt to keep up and stay ahead of the younger ones is working to some degree. Every now and then, I change small things but my approach in general hasn’t changed in training horses, but I have to adapt to different scenarios in order to keep winning and even in 24 years, a lot of things change, so you have to adapt and I’ve managed to survive.” Leading Hayes 66 wins to 60 at the start of the meeting, Size stretched the lead to seven when Sight Dreamer prevailed in the Class 5 Miraculous Handicap (1400m) under Andrea Atzeni before Karis Teetan piloted Raging Rapids to victory in the Class 4 Medic Kingdom Handicap (1400m). Bundle Award shunted Size further clear with a brilliant performance – clocking a searing 21.87s for the final 400m – under Atzeni in the Class 1 The Hong Kong Racehorse Owners Association Trophy Handicap (1600m) to ultimately seal the championship. Zac Purton ended the Sha Tin season as he started with it – with a quartet – after combining with Circuit Mighty, Huge Wave, Bulb General and Tony Cruz’s Beauty Bolt (124lb), who claimed a PP Bonus of HK$1.5 million with victory in the Class 3 All You Wish Handicap (1400m). “It’s always nice to be starting well and finishing well. He’s (Beauty Bolt) a nice horse,” Purton said after taking his seasonal haul to 136 wins. “It’s never easy coming into Hong Kong and adapting like he has with the faster speed and the faster track but, on what he’s shown, he’s promising.” The battle for the Tony Cruz Award for the leading homegrown jockey is set for a cliffhanger finish on Wednesday (16 July) after both Matthew Chadwick and Derek Leung sliced further into Matthew Poon’s lead. With one meeting to go, Poon (36 wins) leads Chadwick (35) and Leung (34) after Chadwick triumphed on Chris So’s Devas Twelve to land the Class 4 Pingwu Spark Handicap (1400m) and Leung followed suit on Jimmy Ting’s Happy Universe in the Class 4 Solar Hei Hei Handicap (1600m). Ting scored a double when Huge Wave clinched the Class 3 Sight Winner Handicap (1600m) under before Douglas Whyte’s Celestial Hero claimed a PP Bonus of HK$1.5 million with success in the Class 3 Joy And Fun Handicap (1200m) for Hugh Bowman. Manfred Man reached a career-best 45 wins in a season when Circuit Mighty (135lb) triumphed in the Class 5 Mr Award Handicap under Zac Purton. Man’s previous best was 44 victories in 2022/23. Ben Thompson celebrated the final Sha Tin meeting of his stint before returning to Australia at season’s end with victory on Yip’s promising three-year-old All’s Well in the Class 4 Big Profit Handicap (1200m). “It felt quite fitting to win this race. My first ride in Hong Kong (Devil And Gold) was for Dennis Yip, so it’s nice to ride a winner for him at my last Sha Tin meeting,” Thompson said. Jamie Richards hopes Bulb General can continue to improve after the three-year-old posted an impressive win in the Class 4 Victory Marvel Handicap (1200m) after recovering colic surgery in February. “Good win, nice horse,” Richards said. “He raced very well in February (when third to Crossborderpegasus) and the form out of the race was strong and, unfortunately, he did get held up with a little bout of colic after his first run. “He’s made a full recovery and it looks like he’s got a few rating points up his sleeve. We’ll let the horse do the talking next season and hopefully he can work his way through the grades.” Hong Kong racing continues with the Season Finale at Happy Valley on Wednesday night (16 July). By Leo Schlink

Using times to find winners can be risky, but in Race 6 at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Tuesday, the clock clearly favours Churchillian over October Storm. Despite soft going, Churchillian clocked 58.71 for his 1000m maiden win, nearly two seconds quicker than October Storm’s 60.36.

Churchillian’s pedigree adds confidence — he’s a full brother to Master Archie, a top-class Grade 1 sprinter. He’s drawn perfectly in gate 1 and always does best over the minimum trip. Aldo Domeyer rides for Candice Bass-Robinson.

October Storm, under Gavin Lerena for Vaughan Marshall, is highly rated too. He’s built to handle testing ground and, as a full brother to Grade 1 winner October Morn, he has potential but may still be maturing.

Marshall has a strong hand throughout the card. Better Man (Race 1) returns as a gelding and is expected to improve. Nightrain (Race 3), a brother to Thunderstruck, should go close after a smart debut. United Front (Race 4) ran well on debut and is one to follow, despite a wide draw.

Promettere (Race 8) could end the day well for Marshall. He was unlucky last time and has the turn of foot to trouble favourite Sugar Mountain.

Stormwatch (Race 2) impressed on debut and can improve further. Pacific Waters (Race 5) comes from the same formline and should stay the extra distance.

Bass-Robinson’s Trip To Maputo looks the pick in Race 7, with Domeyer choosing her over stablemates.

Race 9 looks open — Azzurri can follow up a good comeback, but watch War Chariot and Happy Days.

Race 10 is tough; King’s Quest is improving but faces dangers in Water Dragon and Arbitration.

Video Stars Race 1 No 1 EURO ROCKS His most recent run doesn’t reflect his true ability, having been caught wide throughout and left with nothing in reserve upon straightening. A closer look at his prior form reveals a fast-finishing fourth and a solid sixth four and three starts back, respectively. Dropping into Class 5 company for the first time, he meets a more manageable field and could surprise at value. Race 11 No 4 SOUTH STAR He had no luck last start, travelling smoothly early before striking traffic from the 400m to the 250m. Once clear in the concluding stages, he battled on gamely to finish fifth, beaten just two lengths over this track and distance. Having shown consistent form of late, he appears well placed to make amends with a smoother run this time. Sectional Stars Race 3 No 2 GOLDENTRONICMIGHTY Drawn wide last start, he was restrained early and settled well off the speed before flashing home late to grab third over this track and distance. With the race run at a crawl — allowing the winner to dictate from start to finish — his closing effort was all the more impressive. Race 9 No 2 MICKLEY He nearly caused an upset in Class 2 company last time out, unleashing the fastest final 400m to finish a close second, beaten only a head over 1400m. Dropping to Class 3 this week, he shapes as a strong contender despite a notable rise in weight.

By PA Sport Reporters Charlie Appleby’s Notable Speech is to have his first race over six furlongs in the Al Basti Equiworld July Cup at Newmarket on Saturday. Last year’s 2000 Guineas winner impressed connections enough in a gallop over the weekend to earn his place in the premier sprint. A post on Godolphin’s X account read: “Update from Moulton Paddocks: Following a very pleasing piece of work over the weekend, the decision has been made to supplement Dubawi’s 2,000 Guineas hero Notable Speech for the G1 July Cup @NewmarketRace.”

Since he made his debut on the all-weather in January 2024, Notable Speech has been campaign exclusively over a mile, with his career highlight coming on the Rowley Mile last May. At the time he was still unbeaten and while he has found things tougher since then, he did win the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood. This season he has been fourth in both the Lockinge Stakes at Newbury and the Queen Anne at Royal Ascot. Notable Speech features among 16 contenders for the July Cup following the confirmation stage and is one of two supplementary entries for owners Godolphin, with Sheikh Mohammed’s operation also stumping up the required £36,000 to add John and Thady Gosden’s Jersey Stakes runner-up Spy Chief to the field.

The Godolphin blue could also be carried by Notable Speech’s stablemate Symbol Of Honour, who has won four of his five starts this year and was last seen edging out Arabian Dusk in the Group Two Sandy Lane Stakes at Haydock in May. Andrew Balding’s Flora Of Bermuda, who finished third in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot, is one of three potential runners for Wathnan Racing along with the Tom Clover-trained Rogue Lightning and Night Raider from Karl Burke’s yard. The latter faltered after making much of the running in the King Charles III Stakes at the Royal meeting and his trainer hopes he can fare better over a furlong further this weekend.

Six is the ideal trip, whether he’s up to a Group One at this stage of his career we’ll find out on Saturday

Burke said: “Night Raider is a very quick horse, there’s no doubt about it, but I think he’s a horse that likes to get into a rhythm and he’s more chance of getting into that rhythm over six furlongs than he does over five. “I think over five at the top level they jump and go so hard early and he’s a horse that likes to jump and get into a nice rhythm, which I think he has more chance of doing over six and he obviously can stay seven as well. “Six is the ideal trip, whether he’s up to a Group One at this stage of his career we’ll find out on Saturday.” Other leading hopes include Kevin Ryan’s Inisherin, Aidan O’Brien’s Whistlejacket and top-class mare Believing, who is in foal to Frankel and is set to make her final career start before retirement for trainer George Boughey.

By Mark Lydeamore Sunday’s highlight will be the running of the time honoured Group 1 Perak Gold Vase and with the straight course out of action permanently due to a recent land sale, the vase will be contested over the 1100m trip on the short course for the first time. The 2025 edition may not be as strong as previous years however, a strong contingent from Selangor has ensured that the event does contain some classy performers. SUPER SALUTE, a G2 and G3 winner originally from Singapore heads the weights while the country’s most progressive performer in recent months, FILIAL DRAGON appear to be the main contenders.  SUPER SALUTE has the advantage with two runs on the Ipoh circuit, including a 1300m win with the benefit of a 4kg apprentice claim back in April. The Penang Farewell Trophy winner has maintained good form since and does possess the class factor hence he will be the testing material under the set weights conditions.  FILIAL DRAGON has a golden opportunity to win the Group 1 contest and his recent displays suggest he is capable of going four in a row despite his first visit to Ipoh. The five-year-old is in career best form since making his Malaysian debut with a rating of 64 and four months later, has risen to 83 points on the CRS with four wins from ten local starts. Jockey Troy See has the perfect record from two mounts aboard the gelding and will be a major player. WITNESSIMPACT has finished outside the placings in two races won by FILIAL DRAGON this preparation but has changed stables recently and improvement is expected. MAN OF ACTION is building a handy resume with three wins from five Malaysian starts and appears best of the local chances with the 54kg. On the odd occasion a horse imported from overseas arrives in the country as a maiden performer but is capable of breaking its maiden status against Class 4 opposition and WILSING may fit into that category in the 1100m Class 4 contest (Race 8). Placed on its local debut as an odds-on favourite here on June 14, the former New Zealander was parked outside the leader throughout in finishing 3rd, a neck behind the winner. The booking of KC Wong should enhance its chances and looks on track to break the maiden tag on Sunday. The Kevin Coetzee trained two-year-old O THRYLOS will get his chance to break through in the 1100m Restricted Maiden (Race 10). The juvenile covered extra ground when debuting here two weeks ago and had a tendency to hang inwards when trying to chase down the eventual winner, Authority. O THRYLOS may still be green but should gain plenty of benefit from his debut performance. SPEEDY SAMURAI will find this a much easier assignment compared to his debut run when finishing unplaced in the 1200m 3YO Sprint Championship in KL on June 1. The three-year-old has since trialed well and is also capable of breaking through at his second race start.