Reigning Hong Kong champion jockey Zac Purton is poised to surpass a significant seasonal milestone this Wednesday at Happy Valley, armed with a powerful book of seven rides. This comes fresh off the back of a stellar Sunday at Sha Tin, where he piloted both Ka Ying Rising and Voyage Bubble to Group One victories.
Purton's Path to Fifty
With his winning double at the weekend, Zac Purton has already amassed 48 wins for the current Hong Kong racing season. The eight-time champion requires just two more victories to break through the half-century mark, and his card for the midweek meeting at the city track presents several golden opportunities.
The Australian jockey, affectionately known as 'The Zac-Man', is set to partner runners in seven of the nine races. Among his most compelling chances is Top Time, who carries top weight and is considered overdue for a win in the Lark Handicap over the extended mile. Later, Thunder Prince is tipped for a change of fortune in the Hong Kong Golf Club Centenary Cup sprint over six furlongs.
Key Rides and Redemption Seekers
Purton will also reunite with the talented but frustrating China Win in the Swiftlet Handicap. This four-year-old has been consistently hampered by wide draws in recent outings. However, an all-important inside barrier (gate one) finally gives the horse a clear chance to showcase his true ability over nine furlongs.
The most intriguing narrative of the day, however, surrounds Purton's mount in the Sea Eagle Handicap. He remains loyal to South Star, a horse that let down favourite-backers last month when finishing a disappointing seventh behind Super Unicorn and others.
South Star's Chance for Atonement
Analysts believe circumstances were firmly against South Star in that last run. Drawn in the outside gate, the horse was forced wide, raced too keenly in the early and middle stages, and never settled into a comfortable rhythm.
The picture looks markedly different for this assignment. Drawing gate four is a major advantage, allowing Purton to position the horse much closer to the early pace without expending excessive energy. If he can get South Star to relax, the horse's known powerful finishing kick could prove decisive in the closing stages of the extended mile contest.
Pointers: South Star (2.50pm, Happy Valley).
