https://www.scmp.com/rss/322432/feed Sam Agars started his career in South Australia before moving to Hong Kong in 2014. He spent three years covering rugby and golf for the Post, before joining the horse racing team in 2018. en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Sam Agars,Stephy Zhang Sam Agars,Stephy Zhang A protester calling for a deeper investigation into the Tai Po fire almost cancelled Hong Kong’s richest horse race on Sunday, but even that could not stop Jockey Club boss Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges calling it one of the city’s “greatest days”. With a record number of tourists making the trip to Sha Tin, and two of the city’s stars cementing their places among the world’s greatest racehorses, not even a drop in turnover could dim the CEO’s delight at the climax of the Hong Kong International... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3336398/hkir-one-greatest-days-hong-kong-racing-despite-scary-incident-track-invader?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3336398/hkir-one-greatest-days-hong-kong-racing-despite-scary-incident-track-invader?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Dec 2025 12:09:58 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Jockey Maxime Guyon, trainer Andre Fabre and owners Wertheimer & Frere snared the Group One Longines Hong Kong Vase (2,400m) for the second time in three years when Sosie stormed to victory at Sha Tin on Sunday. By joining stablemate Junko on the honour roll, Sosie ensured Fabre became the most successful trainer in Vase history with four victories, while Guyon won the HK$26 million contest for the third time. “It’s good for all the team to win the Group One in Hong Kong. All the trainers and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336391/maxime-guyon-and-andre-fabre-deliver-again-sosie-wins-group-one-hong-kong-vase?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336391/maxime-guyon-and-andre-fabre-deliver-again-sosie-wins-group-one-hong-kong-vase?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Dec 2025 10:25:46 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Perhaps the two best horses ever trained in Hong Kong will headline what promises to be an action-packed Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) at Sha Tin on Sunday. The highest-earning racehorse of all time with north of HK$217 million to his name, Romantic Warrior will attempt to win an unprecedented fourth consecutive Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m). Victory in the first seven-runner Cup since 2007 would make Romantic Warrior the only four-time HKIR winner and the market suggests only... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336346/hong-kong-heavyweights-headline-action-packed-international-day-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336346/hong-kong-heavyweights-headline-action-packed-international-day-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Dec 2025 00:00:17 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars HELENE SUPAFEELING - R2 (4) Trials suggest he could overcome a tricky draw   Jay Rooney STAR RISE - R9 (3) Terribly unlucky last start and looks well placed to atone here   Owen Goulding VOYAGE BOSS - R3 (4) Has finally drawn a barrier and recent trial winner remains unexposed   Phillip Woo EVERYONE'S STAR - R9 (2) Comes off two eye-catching runs at Sha Tin this season and should win   Shannon (Vincent Wong) MAJESTIC VALOUR - R3 (1) Scored well in his debut last start and can repeat... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336344/scmp-best-bets-star-rise-can-shine-bright-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336344/scmp-best-bets-star-rise-can-shine-bright-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 13 Dec 2025 13:42:08 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Romantic Warrior will bid to make more history this Sunday when he chases a record-extending fourth straight victory in the Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m). He would also become the first horse to win four times at the Longines Hong Kong International Races. First though, let’s relive the three spine-tingling victories that have ensured one of the greatest gallopers of all time stands on the precipice of the unfathomable. Complete domination As far as absolute brilliance and complete domination... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336139/relive-romantic-warriors-three-spine-tingling-hong-kong-cup-victories?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336139/relive-romantic-warriors-three-spine-tingling-hong-kong-cup-victories?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Dec 2025 01:02:09 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Connections of local superstars Ka Ying Rising and Romantic Warrior walked away from the Sha Tin parade ring happy after the pair drew inside gates for Sunday’s Longines Hong Kong International Races. While it was never going to matter too much which gate Romantic Warrior landed for the seven-runner Group One Hong Kong Cup, barrier two was just about perfect for the champion and should ensure him a smooth passage around the first bend from the tricky Sha Tin 2,000m start. Trainer David Hayes was... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336032/romantic-warrior-set-smooth-hong-kong-cup-passage-ka-ying-rising-draws-one-first-time?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3336032/romantic-warrior-set-smooth-hong-kong-cup-passage-ka-ying-rising-draws-one-first-time?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:18:30 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Christophe Lemaire has identified Embroidery as his best chance of tasting a first Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) success since his win aboard Pride in the 2006 Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m). One of the leading hopes in a jam-packed Group One Hong Kong Mile, three-year-old filly Embroidery is coming off a stunning year that featured victories in two of the three legs of the Japanese Triple Tiara – the Group One Oka Sho (1,600m) and Group One Shuka Sho (2,000m). “Embroidery is... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335875/christophe-lemaire-reveals-pick-his-three-hkir-rides-shes-true-group-one-filly?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335875/christophe-lemaire-reveals-pick-his-three-hkir-rides-shes-true-group-one-filly?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:20:00 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars The Group One Longines Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) has been hit by another withdrawal, with trainer David Eustace confirming Massive Sovereign will not run in Sunday’s HK$40 million contest after suffering a leg injury. After Japanese raider Lord Del Rey came out of the race with lameness on Tuesday, the scratching of last year’s Hong Kong Derby winner reduces the field for the city’s richest race to just seven runners. The last time the Cup was contested by such a small field was way back in 2007,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335826/hong-kong-cup-poised-smallest-field-2007-after-massive-out?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335826/hong-kong-cup-poised-smallest-field-2007-after-massive-out?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 10 Dec 2025 02:19:34 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Twenty years after his father David tasted Longines Hong Kong International Races success with Vengeance Of Rain, Luke Ferraris is dreaming of etching his name onto the honour roll with My Wish. While Vengeance Of Rain won the Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m), My Wish will tackle this weekend’s Group One Hong Kong Mile after a superb start to the Hong Kong season. “These are the races everyone wants to win and if you win one, it puts your name up there with some of the best,” said Luke... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335819/two-decades-after-father-davids-hkir-success-vengeance-rain-luke-ferraris-dreaming-his-own-glory?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335819/two-decades-after-father-davids-hkir-success-vengeance-rain-luke-ferraris-dreaming-his-own-glory?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 22:43:30 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars HONEST WITNESS - R4 (7) Unlucky first up, has since trialled well and can salute here   Jay Rooney CORLEONE - R5 (3) Brilliant winner first up and looks well placed to go on with it tonight   Owen Goulding MR DESIRA - R8 (9) Improving sort who will get the trip and continue on to better things   Phillip Woo STERLING WONGCHOY - R1 (3) Put the writing on the wall last time and can strike   Shannon (Vincent Wong) TSUEN WAN GLORY - R1 (6) Ran a nice second last start and can win from gate... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335807/scmp-best-bets-corleone-cornerstone-punters-ijc-night-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335807/scmp-best-bets-corleone-cornerstone-punters-ijc-night-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 13:55:08 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars He’d hoped to be back in Hong Kong a little sooner but Joao Moreira is ready to make an impact when he heads to Happy Valley for the first time in over three years on Wednesday night. Denied a position on Hong Kong’s packed riding roster after hoping to return as Caspar Fownes’ stable jockey earlier this season, Moreira will ride in the Longines International Jockeys’ Championship (IJC) for the first time since 2021. Victorious in the competition in 2012, Moreira admitted he wasn’t sure if he... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335799/first-international-jockeys-championship-and-then-longer-hong-kong-stint-joao-moreira-hopefully-we?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335799/first-international-jockeys-championship-and-then-longer-hong-kong-stint-joao-moreira-hopefully-we?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:05:29 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars The Group One Longines Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) is down to just eight runners after Japanese raider Lord Del Rey was withdrawn from the race on Tuesday. A $31 outsider for the HK$40 million contest, Lord Del Rey was found to be lame in his right foreleg and he joins Calandagan and Shanwah as withdrawals from the race. Supposed to be ridden by Australian Damian Lane, Lord Del Rey’s scratching reduces Japan’s Cup presence to two runners – Bellagio Opera and Rousham Park. Local hero Romantic Warrior... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335699/hong-kong-cup-reduced-eight-runners-after-withdrawal-japanese-raider-lord-del-rey?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335699/hong-kong-cup-reduced-eight-runners-after-withdrawal-japanese-raider-lord-del-rey?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 04:42:46 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars He may have been a touch jaded when he left Hong Kong in 2019, but Umberto Rispoli is back in town with a spring in his step and boasting every bit of the infectious energy he’s so well known for. Frustrated by a lack of opportunity after 122 Hong Kong wins across almost eight years, Rispoli packed his bags and headed for the United States. Almost six years to the day, he returns in the midst of his “best year as a rider” after 127 wins including a superb victory aboard Journalism in the Group... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335577/umberto-rispoli-returns-hong-kong-spring-his-step-place-humbles-you?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335577/umberto-rispoli-returns-hong-kong-spring-his-step-place-humbles-you?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 08 Dec 2025 06:48:14 +0000 Sam Agars,Owen Goulding Sam Agars,Owen Goulding Mark Newnham tuned up for the Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) when Notthesillyone continued his fine form on the dirt in the Class Four Austin Handicap (1,200m) at Sha Tin on Sunday. It was Newnham’s fifth win on the surface this season and his backers never had a moment's worry, with Luke Ferraris controlling things from pillar to post on the Super One galloper. Pinging out of gate 10, Notthesillyone was always travelling well on the front end and showed a good burst of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335517/mark-newnham-tunes-hong-kong-international-races-tilt-yet-another-dirt-success?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335517/mark-newnham-tunes-hong-kong-international-races-tilt-yet-another-dirt-success?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 07 Dec 2025 12:11:12 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Little Paradise continued his march towards February’s Classic Mile with a comfortable victory at Sha Tin on Sunday afternoon. Sent off the $2.65 favourite for the Class Three Salisbury Handicap (1,400m) after three wins from six career starts, Little Paradise notched his first win at seven furlongs after finding a nice spot on leader Ka Ying Attack’s back under Zac Purton. “We didn’t want to go in front because the draw was a bit bad. I left it to Zac,” said trainer Jimmy Ting Koon-ho. “He... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335511/little-paradise-continues-march-towards-classic-mile-strong-sha-tin-success?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335511/little-paradise-continues-march-towards-classic-mile-strong-sha-tin-success?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 07 Dec 2025 11:02:28 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars FIT FOR BEAUTY - R5 (3) Looks far too good for Class Four company and can salute again here   Jay Rooney BOTTOMUPTOGETHER - R8 (1) Won only dirt start and can overcome a wide draw here   Owen Goulding WE ARE HERO - R6 (5) Close up despite a nightmare run last start and now drops in grade   Phillip Woo WITH A SMILE - R5 (2) Ran well first up and is ideally drawn to strike over a suitable trip   Shannon (Vincent Wong) AURIO - R3 (1) Has shown a good turn of foot and gets his chance to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335470/scmp-best-bets-beauty-can-deliver-fitting-result-punters-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335470/scmp-best-bets-beauty-can-deliver-fitting-result-punters-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 06 Dec 2025 13:45:08 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars David Hayes has urged Jockey Club officials to think outside the box when it comes to accommodating Hong Kong’s “drastic oversupply” of Class Four horses. Hong Kong’s horse population is in the midst of a sustained period of growth ahead of the start of racing in Conghua, with the Jockey Club increasing ownership permits in recent years. However, until racing on the mainland begins in October next year, there will be an increased number of gallopers looking to race in a similar amount of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335166/jockey-club-must-think-outside-box-accommodate-drastic-oversupply-class-four-horses-david-hayes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3335166/jockey-club-must-think-outside-box-accommodate-drastic-oversupply-class-four-horses-david-hayes?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 04 Dec 2025 06:34:40 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars CHARITY GAIN - R8 (7) Was impressive first up this season and can deliver the goods here   Jay Rooney SILVER SPURS - R5 (2) Racing in top form and should get an easy time in front here   Owen Goulding WONDERSTAR - R7 (3) Can use his blistering pace to lead them all the way from a low barrier   Phillip Woo ETERNAL FORTUNE - R7 (2) Can salute from a better draw after returning with an eye-catching second   Shannon (Vincent Wong) REWARDING BUDDY - R5 (9) Performed well in a recent trial... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334953/scmp-best-bets-wonderstar-can-shine-bright-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334953/scmp-best-bets-wonderstar-can-shine-bright-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Dec 2025 13:50:09 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Last-start winners are few and far between at Happy Valley on Wednesday night, however Douglas Whyte is confident Celestial Hero can lay down a marker for bigger and better things to come in the Class Three Plover Cove Handicap (1,000m). Not seen on the racetrack since a breakthrough Hong Kong victory at start three in July, Celestial Hero underwent knee surgery to remove a bone fragment soon after that success and has been building back to fitness since. Solid enough when running sixth in a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334871/douglas-whyte-hopes-last-start-winner-can-get-rolling-again-hes-very-nice-horse?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334871/douglas-whyte-hopes-last-start-winner-can-get-rolling-again-hes-very-nice-horse?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:16:59 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars While Maxime Guyon would quite obviously love to taste success as early as possible during his short-term Hong Kong stint, the star French jockey understandably already has one eye on next weekend’s Group One Longines Hong Kong Vase (2,400m). In a race he has already won twice thanks to victories aboard Flintshire (2014) and Junko (2023), Guyon partners the impressive Sosie for Andre Fabre in the longest of the four Hong Kong International Races features. “I think I have a chance. Sosie has run... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334864/maxime-guyon-eyes-strong-start-vase-glory-sosie-i-am-really-happy-be-back?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334864/maxime-guyon-eyes-strong-start-vase-glory-sosie-i-am-really-happy-be-back?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Dec 2025 05:15:17 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars The Jockey Club has donated HK$70.2 million to the victims of the Tai Po fire after a subdued afternoon of racing at Sha Tin on Sunday. A minute’s silence was observed before Sunday’s closed-door meeting, which was restricted to owners, stewards, voting members and their invited guests, and there was none of the colour and buzz of a normal Sha Tin meeting. “I want to express my deep condolences to all of those who have been affected by this tragic fire,” said Jockey Club chief executive Winfried... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334678/jockey-club-donates-hk702-million-fire-victims-after-subdued-sha-tin-meeting?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334678/jockey-club-donates-hk702-million-fire-victims-after-subdued-sha-tin-meeting?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 30 Nov 2025 11:55:50 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars EVER LUCK - R4 (1) Produced a remarkable debut success and looks far too good for this grade   Jay Rooney THE GOLDEN KNIGHT - R5 (8) Will relish the mile after two strong runs this season   Owen Goulding SUPER STRONG KID - R9 (6) Progressive sort looked to relish 1,200m last time and remains unexposed   Phillip Woo AUDACIOUS PURSUIT - R5 (5) Looks hard to beat from a better draw   Shannon (Vincent Wong) SUPER STRONG KID - R9 (6) Consistent type who has drawn low and looks primed to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334634/scmp-best-bets-kid-super-strong-chance-punters-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334634/scmp-best-bets-kid-super-strong-chance-punters-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 29 Nov 2025 13:50:10 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars It is sure to be a subdued afternoon at Sha Tin on Sunday, with the card to take place behind closed doors as a mark of respect for the victims of this week’s tragic Tai Po fire. There are 10 races on the card and Sam Agars provides an extended rundown of his selections. Race 1 – Class Four 1,000m Turf Handicap A nice little contest to kick off the card and Packing Glory looks well placed to make a winning debut. While gate two is not ideal down the Sha Tin straight and a couple of key rivals,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334610/who-wins-sha-tin-debut-winner-can-take-luck-out-equation?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334610/who-wins-sha-tin-debut-winner-can-take-luck-out-equation?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 29 Nov 2025 06:35:11 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sunday’s Sha Tin race meeting will be held behind closed doors as a mark of respect for the victims of this week’s tragic Tai Po fire. All gross income from the meeting, which the Jockey Club estimates to be around HK$70 million, will be donated to support those affected by the tragedy, while Saturday’s Mark Six draw has been postponed to next Tuesday. “The Hong Kong Jockey Club is deeply saddened by the loss of so many lives during the tragic fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, as well as the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334404/sundays-sha-tin-race-meeting-be-held-behind-closed-doors-all-proceeds-fire-victims?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334404/sundays-sha-tin-race-meeting-be-held-behind-closed-doors-all-proceeds-fire-victims?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 27 Nov 2025 12:41:18 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Watching big-name Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) runners fall away is nothing new, however the speed at which Calandagan went from in the fields to not coming was quite something. In a turn of events that sparked memories of the time Aidan O’Brien’s Magical was in the Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) field for little more than 12 hours – but never actually coming to Hong Kong – Calandagan was listed in the Cup field by the Jockey Club on Wednesday afternoon before being ruled out... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334378/no-calandagan-leaves-hong-kong-cup-wanting-hkir-fields-still-excite?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334378/no-calandagan-leaves-hong-kong-cup-wanting-hkir-fields-still-excite?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 27 Nov 2025 10:20:33 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Two of the world’s very best could do battle in a showdown for the ages in next month’s Group One Longines Hong Kong Cup (2,000m), with the mighty Calandagan still a chance to face local hero Romantic Warrior. The catch, however, is that recently crowned European Horse of the Year Calandagan must first get through this Sunday’s Group One Japan Cup (2,400m) and is considered a slim chance of actually making it to Sha Tin. Whatever happens with Calandagan, Romantic Warrior – who returned from... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334220/calandagan-could-lead-attack-romantic-warrior-first-he-must-make-it-through-japan-cup?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334220/calandagan-could-lead-attack-romantic-warrior-first-he-must-make-it-through-japan-cup?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:59:58 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars AMAZING GAZE - R7 (5) Is working nicely towards a victory and has again drawn well   Jay Rooney AMAZING GAZE - R7 (5) Horribly unlucky not to win last time out and gets his chance to atone   Owen Goulding ROMAN CROWN - R4 (10) Tardy start costly behind all-the-way improver latest and can go one better   Phillip Woo A AMERIC TE SPECSO - R8 (3) Looks ready to strike after two eye-catching Valley 1,650m runs this term   Shannon (Vincent Wong) BITS SUPERSTAR - R3 (6) Unlucky second last... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334137/scmp-best-bets-amazing-gaze-needs-second-look-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3334137/scmp-best-bets-amazing-gaze-needs-second-look-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 25 Nov 2025 13:52:08 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars The Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) lead-up meeting is in the bag and after the mouthwatering events of Sunday, we’re faced with the very real prospect that all four of December 14’s Group Ones could feature the defending champion. We know for certain that, all being equal, we will see at least two local superstars defending their respective crowns after Ka Ying Rising carried on his merry way with a commanding success in the Group Two Jockey Club Sprint (1,200m) and Romantic... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3333947/ricky-yiu-mulls-voyage-bubble-distance-every-hkir-feature-could-boast-its-defending-champ?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3333947/ricky-yiu-mulls-voyage-bubble-distance-every-hkir-feature-could-boast-its-defending-champ?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 24 Nov 2025 09:17:45 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars A “bigger, stronger, better” Ka Ying Rising toyed with his rivals at Sha Tin on Sunday, romping to his 15th consecutive success with victory in the Group Two BOCHK Private Banking Jockey Club Sprint (1,200m). Sent off $1.05 for his first run since muscling his way to victory in the Group One The Everest (1,200m), Ka Ying Rising stopped the clock in 1:07.33 – the second fastest Sha Tin 1,200m time ever and not far outside his track record of 1:07.20. “To the eye, I thought it was probably one of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3333855/bigger-stronger-better-ka-ying-rising-toys-rivals-en-route-hong-kong-sprint?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3333855/bigger-stronger-better-ka-ying-rising-toys-rivals-en-route-hong-kong-sprint?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 23 Nov 2025 11:22:53 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars MY WISH - R7 (7) A class act who should prove far too good for this lot   Jay Rooney SUNNY Q - R2 (9) Just fell short of making it back-to-back wins last start, can go one better   Owen Goulding BLAZING WUKONG - R10 (14) Two big runs off massive weights this season and carries 18lb less here   Phillip Woo NOISY BOY - R4 (3) Gets right trip to salute after two encouraging runs over a mile trip   Shannon (Vincent Wong) MADE FOR LIFE - R1 (11) Trials have suggested he looks hard to beat... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3333809/scmp-best-bets-sunny-q-can-light-sha-tin-turf?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3333809/scmp-best-bets-sunny-q-can-light-sha-tin-turf?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 22 Nov 2025 14:02:07 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Voyage Bubble may get his best chance to topple the mighty Romantic Warrior in Sunday’s Group Two BOCHK Jockey Club Cup (2,000m), with trainer Ricky Yiu Poon-fai confirming his star’s first-up 12th was a complete forgive run. After being asked to work early under top weight and finding trouble in the run, Voyage Bubble never looked comfortable and faded in the straight. “You can just forget about his run with Matthew Poon [Ming-fai] on him. It was rough, very rough,” said Yiu. “Since then I have... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3333615/ricky-yiu-confident-voyage-bubble-can-lift-romantic-warrior-clash-it-was-rough-very-rough?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3333615/ricky-yiu-confident-voyage-bubble-can-lift-romantic-warrior-clash-it-was-rough-very-rough?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:49:13 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars MR DESIRA - R5 (2) Good run in defeat from wide draw latest and retains potential   Jay Rooney SAMARKAND - R4 (1) Should go one better than last start with the aid of barrier one   Owen Goulding SAMARKAND - R4 (1) Collared on the the line latest, now drops in grade with the inside barrier   Phillip Woo SAMARKAND - R4 (1) Looks a wire-to-wire threat from gate one after back-toback minor placings   Shannon (Vincent Wong) SAVVY TWINKLE - R6 (11) Not beaten far last start and should go... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3333306/scmp-best-bets-samarkand-super-chance-punters-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3333306/scmp-best-bets-samarkand-super-chance-punters-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 18 Nov 2025 13:48:08 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars SPARKLING FELLOW - R4 (12) Did everything but win first up and looks suited here   Jay Rooney BEAUTY BOLT - R10 (5) Big run last start and looks the one to beat from a far better draw today   Owen Goulding HARRY'S HERO - R2 (14) Desperately unlucky when blocked late last time out and can make amends   Phillip Woo SPARKLING FELLOW - R4 (12) Is ready to break through after a solid second fresh   Shannon (Vincent Wong) SPARKLING FELLOW - R4 (12) Looks a good chance after catching the eye... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332877/scmp-best-bets-fellow-can-sparkle-punters-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332877/scmp-best-bets-fellow-can-sparkle-punters-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 14 Nov 2025 13:46:07 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars After making a fast start to her short-term stint in the city with a winner with just her fourth ride, Hollie Doyle has picked up a couple of Group Two mounts at next weekend’s Longines Hong Kong International Races lead-up meeting. Doyle will ride Divano in the Group Two Jockey Club Sprint (1,200m) and Sunlight Power in the Group Two Jockey Club Mile, two gallopers she is familiar with. Doyle partnered Divano in a loaded Sha Tin all-weather trial on Friday morning, with Francis Lui Kin-wai’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332760/hollie-doyle-bags-group-two-rides-she-continues-settle-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332760/hollie-doyle-bags-group-two-rides-she-continues-settle-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 14 Nov 2025 05:20:09 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars David Hayes is confident Ka Ying Rising is a better horse for his Group One The Everest (1,200m) expedition after the world’s best sprinter breezed through a Sha Tin trial on Friday morning. Trialling for the first time since his comprehensive success in the world’s richest turf race at Randwick in Sydney last month, Ka Ying Rising cruised home first in a star-studded dirt hit-out featuring My Wish and Helios Express. “It was an upper-class trial with some of Hong Kong’s best horses and he did... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332727/ka-ying-rising-breezes-through-sha-tin-trial-trip-has-brought-him?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332727/ka-ying-rising-breezes-through-sha-tin-trial-trip-has-brought-him?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 14 Nov 2025 02:49:49 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars After cutting his teeth as a cadet steward for the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Joseph Chan Nim-him has relished the hands-on nature of his first season as a British Horseracing Authority (BHA) stipendiary steward. The first Hong Kong-trained steward to branch out and work in another major racing jurisdiction, Chan has been plying his trade in the United Kingdom since March this year. “After more than six years as a cadet stipe at the Jockey Club, I wanted to see some more horse racing around the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332619/hong-kong-product-joseph-chan-relishing-hands-nature-stewarding-britain?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332619/hong-kong-product-joseph-chan-relishing-hands-nature-stewarding-britain?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 13 Nov 2025 07:46:52 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars There was carnage for punters at Happy Valley on Wednesday night, with not one favourite saluting and the season’s longest-priced winner headlining a string of blowout results. Team Team Folks caused the biggest upset of the season so far when defying his $83.5 quote to win the second section of the Class Four Fat Tseung Handicap (1,200m). After failing to fire on three starts for Michael Chang Chun-wai last term, the son of Super Seth struck on his first start for new trainer Jimmy Ting Koon-ho... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332550/carnage-punters-happy-valley-83-shot-headlines-raft-roughies?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332550/carnage-punters-happy-valley-83-shot-headlines-raft-roughies?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 12 Nov 2025 15:42:36 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars LOOKS OUTSTANDING - R6 (5) Was enormous on seasonal return and can salute again   Jay Rooney AMAZING GAZE - R3 (4) Has impressed on his two starts and looks poised to strike tonight   Owen Goulding AMAZING GAZE - R3 (4) Has gone close in both his starts and has no excuses from barrier one   Phillip Woo STAR FIGURE - R5 (7) Can salute after an unlucky second when first up this term   Shannon (Vincent Wong) AMAZING GAZE - R3 (4) Ran well when second to Sturdy Ruby and looks the one to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332389/scmp-best-bets-star-can-figure-prominently-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332389/scmp-best-bets-star-can-figure-prominently-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 11 Nov 2025 14:12:08 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars LITTLE PARADISE - R9 (2) Resumed in fine fashion and can carry on winning   Jay Rooney LUCKY SAM GOR - R9 (13) Can make it three in a row with a light weight up in class   Owen Goulding LIGHT YEARS CHARM - R10 (2) Looked the real deal last season and will come on from Group Three return   Phillip Woo AUDACIOUS PURSUIT - R4 (9) Can salute with a step up to 1,600m sure to suit   Shannon (Vincent Wong) PERFECT PEACH - R1 (3) Two solid runs over C&D this term should salute from inside... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332065/scmp-best-bets-perfect-peach-can-be-fruitful-wager-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332065/scmp-best-bets-perfect-peach-can-be-fruitful-wager-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 08 Nov 2025 14:00:14 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars David Eustace will wheel out the three highest-rated horses in his stable this weekend and the trainer hopes at least a couple of them can give him reason to think big as the season progresses. Still searching for his first victory since his 2024 Hong Kong Derby (2,000m) success, Massive Sovereign is second up in the Group Three Sa Sa Ladies’ Purse (1,800m) after a strong fourth in last month’s Class Two Panasonic Cup (1,600m). That was only the galloper’s second run since undergoing fetlock... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332038/david-eustace-wheels-out-big-guns-sha-tin-his-first-run-was-excellent?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332038/david-eustace-wheels-out-big-guns-sha-tin-his-first-run-was-excellent?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 08 Nov 2025 08:18:29 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars It’s one of the more competitive editions in recent memory and Sunday’s Group Three Sa Sa Ladies’ Purse (1,800m) features a pair of former winners of the race, two Hong Kong Derby heroes and a host of other gallopers hoping to stake their claim for next month’s Longines Hong Kong International Races. The 2023 Ladies’ Purse victor, Encountered, and reigning champion Ensued chase repeat successes at Sha Tin this weekend, while the past two Derby winners, Massive Sovereign and Cap Ferrat, remain in... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332021/former-winners-hong-kong-derby-heroes-do-battle-intriguing-ladies-purse?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3332021/former-winners-hong-kong-derby-heroes-do-battle-intriguing-ladies-purse?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 08 Nov 2025 04:04:59 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Shanwah will set out on what trainer Douglas Whyte hopes is a path to the Hong Kong Derby (2,000m) when he has his first start in the city at Sha Tin this Sunday. Third behind Aeliana and Firm Agreement in April’s Group One Australian Derby (2,400m) at Randwick when trained by Ciaron Maher, Shanwah makes his Hong Kong debut in the Class Two Santa Monica Handicap (1,400m). “He raised the flag with his third in the Australian Derby and we persevered and fortunately enough we got him,” said Whyte... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331740/group-one-placegetter-makes-hong-kong-debut-sha-tin-hes-lovely-horse?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331740/group-one-placegetter-makes-hong-kong-debut-sha-tin-hes-lovely-horse?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 06 Nov 2025 06:40:49 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Superstars Joao Moreira and Christophe Lemaire will compete in December’s Longines International Jockeys’ Championship (IJC) for the first time in years, while the injured Ryan Moore remains a chance to feature for the 17th straight season as he recovers from a leg injury. Reigning IJC champion Mickael Barzalona, Kiwi gun James McDonald, William Buick, Hollie Doyle, Rachel King and Hong Kong fan favourite Umberto Rispoli were also among the newly configured line-up confirmed by the Jockey Club... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331597/joao-moreira-and-christophe-lemaire-return-international-jockeys-championship-line-while-injured?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331597/joao-moreira-and-christophe-lemaire-return-international-jockeys-championship-line-while-injured?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 05 Nov 2025 06:53:58 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars SILVERY BREEZE - R9 (5) Big first-up run and should prove too strong for this lot on Happy Valley debut   Jay Rooney BIENVENUE - R8 (5) In top form and maps to get an ideal run in the box seat here   Owen Goulding THUNDER PRINCE - R7 (2) Unlucky not to get up on stable debut and can go one better with a clearer run   Phillip Woo CONSPIRACY WITNESS - R4 (9) Can go one better after an eye-catching recent second   Shannon (Vincent Wong) REWARDING BUDDY - R7 (9) Big run last start when a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331529/scmp-best-bets-say-bienvenue-another-happy-valley-win?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331529/scmp-best-bets-say-bienvenue-another-happy-valley-win?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 04 Nov 2025 14:04:11 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Could we see one big-name Longines International Jockeys’ Championship (IJC) winner replace another for December 10’s showpiece event at Happy Valley? With Ryan Moore a very real chance to miss next month’s event for the first time since 2008 as he recovers from a leg injury, the Jockey Club may well need to look elsewhere to maintain the level of star power the event attracts annually. One man who fits that bill is four-time Hong Kong champion jockey Joao Moreira. Moreira hasn’t featured in the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331366/could-it-be-ryan-moore-out-joao-moreira-international-jockeys-championship?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331366/could-it-be-ryan-moore-out-joao-moreira-international-jockeys-championship?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:35:16 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Vincent Ho Chak-yiu started his Sunday by taking part in the torch relay for the upcoming National Games and ended it with a Happy Valley winner after saluting aboard Brave Star at the city circuit. Ho was one of nine torch-bearers from the Jockey Club, with chairman Martin Liao Cheung-kong and chief executive Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges also among the contingent, and the rider carried the flame through Tsim Sha Tsui. It was Ho’s first time taking part in the relay and an experience he will... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331243/vincent-ho-carries-national-games-torch-saluting-happy-valley-its-my-honour?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331243/vincent-ho-carries-national-games-torch-saluting-happy-valley-its-my-honour?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 02 Nov 2025 12:35:31 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars COLOURFUL KING - R9 (3) Will be fitter for first-up second and rise in trip looks suitable now   Jay Rooney COLOURFUL KING - R9 (3) Big run on return and can overcome the outside draw here   Owen Goulding LUCKY PLANET - R8 (10) Back to best latest and welldrawn front runner has no weight to carry   Phillip Woo BRAVE STAR - R8 (1) Can strike down in grade over his preferred course and distance   Shannon (Vincent Wong) ALL'S WELL - R2 (2) Can salute from a proper draw after running a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331192/scmp-best-bets-lucky-planet-can-be-world-apart-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331192/scmp-best-bets-lucky-planet-can-be-world-apart-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 01 Nov 2025 13:55:07 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Britney Wong Po-ni’s road to Happy Valley has been longer than most apprentice jockeys in recent times, but the 26-year-old is confident she now has the street smarts needed to negotiate the tight-turning city circuit. Initially hesitant to tackle the testing track where staying cool and calculated in heavy traffic is a must – jockeys must be given approval to ride at the course by Jockey Club management – Wong’s self-belief has built gradually through 249 rides and 23 winners at Sha Tin. Buoyed... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331150/excited-britney-wong-confident-she-has-tools-handle-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3331150/excited-britney-wong-confident-she-has-tools-handle-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 01 Nov 2025 03:39:16 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Hong Kong superstar Romantic Warrior could lock horns with April’s Group One QE II Cup (2,000m) victor Tastiera in the city’s richest race, the HK$40 million Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m). The Jockey Club confirmed on Thursday that Tastiera is one of 50 Japanese entries for December 14’s Longines Hong Kong International Races, with the likes of Satono Reve, Lugal, Win Carnelian, Soul Rush, Jantar Mantar, Embroidery, Croix Du Nord and Stellenbosch also in the mix from the Land of the Rising... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3330937/hong-kong-international-races-entries-packed-big-name-internationals?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3330937/hong-kong-international-races-entries-packed-big-name-internationals?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:41:25 +0000 Sam Agars Sam Agars Sam Agars MR ENERGIA - R8 (5) Impressive last-start winner looks well placed to strike again   Jay Rooney HAPPY ACTION - R5 (9) Can go one better after an encouraging dirt debut earlier this month   Owen Goulding WONDER KIT - R7 (1) Better run latest and has slipped to a handy mark with extra 5lb taken off   Phillip Woo DOUBLE BINGO - R2 (12) Has been knocking on the door and is drawn to get his chance   Shannon (Vincent Wong) FASHION LEGEND - R6 (6) Ran well on the dirt last start and can... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3330807/scmp-best-bets-happy-action-can-get-punters-smiling-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3330807/scmp-best-bets-happy-action-can-get-punters-smiling-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 29 Oct 2025 13:53:13 +0000