https://www.scmp.com/rss/517640/feed Jay started his career as a cadet journalist for the Kalgoorlie Miner newspaper in Western Australia in 2008 before joining The West Australian newspaper, where he covered racing, Australian football and other sports for more than 15 years. He joined the SCMP racing team in 2024. en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney PAPAYA BROSE - R4 (1) Followed up debut win with a strong second and can get back to winning ways   Owen Goulding URANUS STAR - R11 (4) Finally draws a barrier and can set sail off the front with his rider's 10lb   Olivia O'Sullivan SUPERB SPIRIT - R5 (7) Has won a trial since his promising debut and can get off the mark today   Phillip Woo STAR FIGURE - R9 (12) On target for a win after an eye-catching 1,400m run last start   Shannon (Vincent Wong) LUCRATIVE EIGHT - R5 (3) Improving... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3353832/scmp-best-bets-lucrative-eight-can-be-profitable-wager-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3353832/scmp-best-bets-lucrative-eight-can-be-profitable-wager-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 16 May 2026 13:52:04 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney ACE WAR - R5 (8) In great form and looks hard to beat once again for Mark Newnham   Owen Goulding TACTICAL COMMAND - R7 (8) 3lb below his last winning rating and crucially has drawn low in stall four   Olivia O'Sullivan ACE WAR - R5 (8) Has a weight turnaround with The Auspicious and his jockey and stable are in form   Phillip Woo STURDY RUBY - R6 (2) Last run in Class Four resulted in a win and is back at that level tonight   Shannon (Vincent Wong) AURIO - R8 (2) Improving youngster... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3353314/scmp-best-bets-ace-war-can-lead-pack-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3353314/scmp-best-bets-ace-war-can-lead-pack-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 12 May 2026 13:40:04 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Dennis Yip Chor-hong has opted to spell Fast Network rather than set him for the Group Three Sha Tin Vase (1,200m), with connections weighing up a tilt at the Group One Sprinters Stakes (1,200m) in Japan later this year. After a brilliant campaign highlighted by a Group Three National Day Cup (1,000m) victory and two Group One placings, Fast Network will be given a break before potentially making his overseas debut in September’s Sprinters Stakes at Nakayama racecourse. “I think he needs a rest... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3353086/japan-likely-option-fast-network-cap-ferrat-confirmed-champions-chater-cup?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3353086/japan-likely-option-fast-network-cap-ferrat-confirmed-champions-chater-cup?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 11 May 2026 03:16:28 +0000 Jay Rooney,Olivia O'Sullivan Jay Rooney,Olivia O'Sullivan Jerry Chau Chun-lok extended his lead in the race for the Tony Cruz Award when he made the most of limited opportunities to boot home a double at Sha Tin on Saturday. Wins on Cody Mo Wai-kit’s Jolly Jumper and the Frankie Lor Fu-chuen-trained Effortless Win boosted Chau’s seasonal tally to 37 – eight clear of the next best home-grown rider, Vincent Ho Chak-yiu. “I had only four rides today, but they have ability and the track today is good for our horses. So, I’m very happy to get the job done,”... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3353005/jerry-chau-extends-tony-cruz-award-lead-double-cody-mo-also-bags-brace?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3353005/jerry-chau-extends-tony-cruz-award-lead-double-cody-mo-also-bags-brace?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 09 May 2026 11:51:58 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Patch Of Stars inflicted Hot Delight’s first career defeat to clinch a massive 1,091-1 double for Manfred Man Ka-leung at Sha Tin on Saturday, with Real Gentleman causing the upset of the season at $158.35. The consistent Patch Of Stars recorded his third win of the campaign when he swooped late under Hugh Bowman to win the feature Class Two Sai Wan Shan Handicap (1,200m), with boom three-year-old Hot Delight only managing fourth as the $2.1 favourite. Touted as a future star of Hong Kong racing... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352999/patch-stars-inflicts-hot-delights-first-defeat-clinch-massive-1091-1-double-manfred-man?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352999/patch-stars-inflicts-hot-delights-first-defeat-clinch-massive-1091-1-double-manfred-man?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 09 May 2026 10:54:25 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney AMAZING PARTNERS - R10 (4) In top form and maps to get a perfect run here   Owen Goulding LUCKY CANDY - R9 (13) Beaten a length or less in both 1,000m runs and is drawn one off the fence   Olivia O'Sullivan GRAND NOVA - R4 (6) Consistent performer who is a course and distance winner from in-form stable   Phillip Woo SUPER DRAGON - R6 (8) Looks a solid chance of opening his win account after four promising starts   Shannon (Vincent Wong) FIGHT TIME - R3 (2) Looks ready to produce his... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352947/scmp-best-bets-fight-time-ready-battle-it-out-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352947/scmp-best-bets-fight-time-ready-battle-it-out-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 08 May 2026 13:18:04 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Ever Luck’s improvement with blinkers on for the first time last start has given James Orman a boost in confidence ahead of the talented sprinter’s return to Class Three at Sha Tin on Saturday. A brilliant winner on debut in October despite running out abruptly on the home turn, Ever Luck relished the major gear change and dropping back to 1,000m when he made all last start in March. Orman was impressed by the performance under top weight of 135lb and the son of Capitalist drops 10lb when he... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352878/james-orman-backs-ever-luck-handle-return-class-three-bid-back-back-wins?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352878/james-orman-backs-ever-luck-handle-return-class-three-bid-back-back-wins?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 08 May 2026 08:27:50 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Harry Bentley has high hopes he can help Hot Delight extend his unbeaten record when he rides the boom three-year-old for the first time at Sha Tin on Saturday. After creating a huge impression in his three starts for Francis Lui Kin-wai, Hot Delight strikes a strong Class Two field in Saturday’s Sai Wan Shan Handicap (1,200m), with his light weight of 115lb paving the way for Bentley to pick up the prized ride from Vincent Ho Chak-yiu. The son of Too Darn Hot’s dominant victories by almost six... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352846/harry-bentley-hopes-make-most-golden-opportunity-unbeaten-hot-delight?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352846/harry-bentley-hopes-make-most-golden-opportunity-unbeaten-hot-delight?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 08 May 2026 04:56:40 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Trainer Ricky Yiu Poon-fai rates Voyage Bubble “doubtful” to defend his crown in the Group One Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup (2,400m) at Sha Tin on May 24. Yiu was keen to give the six-time Group One winner one more run this season, but the capped elbow he sustained in the lead-up to last month’s Group One Champions Mile has needed further treatment. “He went up to Conghua [on Wednesday morning] and they opened up the capped elbow, but doubtful to run him,” Yiu said. “We’ll see in a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352721/ricky-yiu-rates-voyage-bubble-doubtful-defend-champions-chater-cup-crown?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352721/ricky-yiu-rates-voyage-bubble-doubtful-defend-champions-chater-cup-crown?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 07 May 2026 07:22:46 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney LIGHT YEARS GLORY - R5 (2) Has produced two good runs on the dirt and strikes a winnable race here   Owen Goulding CONRAD THE GREAT - R7 (11) Had excuses from a wide draw latest and was narrowly denied start prior   Olivia O'Sullivan AURORA PATCH - R9 (4) Has relished the switch to the dirt and beaten less than a length last two starts   Phillip Woo LIGHT YEARS GLORY - R5 (2) Can salute after producing two solid runs over this surface and trip   Shannon (Vincent Wong) MEGA CAPTAIN -... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352531/scmp-best-bets-light-years-glory-can-be-out-world-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352531/scmp-best-bets-light-years-glory-can-be-out-world-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 05 May 2026 13:45:05 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Two years ago, Francis Lui Kin-wai won four of the final five races at the season finale to spectacularly beat Pierre Ng Pang-chi in a trainers’ championship battle befitting of a Hollywood movie script. That conclusion to a roller coaster fight for championship honours was hailed as one of the most exciting in the history of Hong Kong racing. While that famous night seems hard to top, this season’s exciting title battle appears destined to do just that. Through 68 of the 88 meetings this term,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352331/hong-kongs-most-exciting-trainers-championship-finale-looms-hayes-flags-experimenting-ka-ying?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352331/hong-kongs-most-exciting-trainers-championship-finale-looms-hayes-flags-experimenting-ka-ying?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 04 May 2026 10:30:08 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Francis Lui Kin-wai kept in touch with the leading trainers’ championship contenders with a Sha Tin double on Sunday, courtesy of progressive gallopers Turquoise Velocity and Baby Sakura. The 2023-24 champion trainer moved to 45 wins, consolidating fifth position in what is shaping as an exciting race for the title. Through 68 of the 88 meetings this term, Mark Newnham leads the way on 51 wins from Caspar Fownes (50), Danny Shum Chap-shing (50) and David Hayes (48). “Hopefully more [wins] to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352285/francis-lui-keeps-touch-trainers-championship-leaders-sha-tin-double?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352285/francis-lui-keeps-touch-trainers-championship-leaders-sha-tin-double?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 03 May 2026 12:47:13 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney AUTUMN VIBES - R1 (2) Trialled well for new stable and gets a perfect chance to strike down in grade   Owen Goulding CROSSBORDERPEGASUS - R11 (1) Ran on well after a slow start latest and more to come   Olivia O'Sullivan BABY SAKURA - R10 (14) Up in grade with light weight, step up in trip looks ideal on his last-start third   Phillip Woo AUTUMN VIBES - R1 (2) Gets downgrade and looks ready to strike for his new trainer   Shannon (Vincent Wong) MY MARS - R11 (6) Scored well in his... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352240/scmp-best-bets-punters-can-feel-winning-vibes-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3352240/scmp-best-bets-punters-can-feel-winning-vibes-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 02 May 2026 13:45:08 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney The stars of Hong Kong once again shone bright on the big stage of a memorable FWD Champions Day, Joao Moreira made a successful return to the city and the trainers’ championship heated up again in April. The SCMP analyses the jockeys and trainers who had a month to remember or one to forget, as well as the most outstanding victory and winning ride. Who’s hot? It was a huge month for champion jockey Zac Purton, who racked up 17 wins at a strike rate of 23.6 per cent to surge past 100 wins for a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351994/hong-kong-racing-postscript-whos-hot-whos-not-and-best-win-and-ride-april?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351994/hong-kong-racing-postscript-whos-hot-whos-not-and-best-win-and-ride-april?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 30 Apr 2026 10:00:17 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney COLOURFUL KING - R7 (2) Has raced without luck of late and returns to his best course and distance here   Owen Goulding SUPERB KING - R5 (2) Has finally drawn a barrier over the Valley 1,200m and can take advantage   Olivia O'Sullivan ARMOR GOLDEN EAGLE - R9 (6) Thrived with Valley switch and Purton takes over   Phillip Woo ROMANTIC LAOS - R6 (2) Has performed better in this grade and should map well from his draw   Shannon (Vincent Wong) GAMEPLAYER ELITE - R5 (8) Loves this track and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351748/scmp-best-bets-armor-golden-eagle-can-soar-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351748/scmp-best-bets-armor-golden-eagle-can-soar-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2026 13:42:08 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney All eyes will be on the next release of the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings for 2026 after Ka Ying Rising’s latest record-breaking success, with the champion sprinter’s rating expected to surge to at least 130. Sitting atop the rankings so far this year, Ka Ying Rising became Hong Kong’s highest-rated galloper in history with a figure of 128 last year and has maintained that mark in 2026. Since the last release of the WBRR, the David Hayes-trained superstar has produced another two... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351554/ka-ying-risings-rating-likely-surge-least-130-next-worlds-best-racehorse-rankings?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351554/ka-ying-risings-rating-likely-surge-least-130-next-worlds-best-racehorse-rankings?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2026 10:00:20 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney The record number of tourists who descended on Sha Tin on Sunday were treated to another dominant display from superstar Ka Ying Rising, music from a K-pop star and a race meeting Jockey Club chief Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges called one of the “best ever in Hong Kong”. On a day when the city’s elite proved more than a match for the rest, the 13,000 visitors who made the trip from mainland China watched the horse considered the best sprinter there is take an incredible 20th consecutive victory,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3351494/record-tourist-numbers-flock-one-best-race-meetings-ever-champions-day-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3351494/record-tourist-numbers-flock-one-best-race-meetings-ever-champions-day-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 26 Apr 2026 13:37:27 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney David Hayes hailed Ka Ying Rising “one of the best horses I’ve ever seen” and “one of the all-time greats” after the champion sprinter smashed his own track record again in a 20th consecutive victory in Sunday’s Group One Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1,200m). Extending his record win streak with consummate ease, Ka Ying Rising exploded clear to beat Japan’s top sprinter Satono Reve by four-and-a-quarter lengths in 1:07.10 – 0.02 seconds quicker than his track record set earlier this month. “In the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351483/david-hayes-hails-ka-ying-rising-one-best-horses-ive-ever-seen-after-chairmans-sprint-prize-romp?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351483/david-hayes-hails-ka-ying-rising-one-best-horses-ive-ever-seen-after-chairmans-sprint-prize-romp?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 26 Apr 2026 11:13:25 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney COOL BOY - R6 (5) Comes out of a strong form race last start and can swoop from a wide gate   Owen Goulding POWER OF VITAM - R8 (3) Had excuses when thundering home latest and has plenty of upside   Olivia O'Sullivan LOVERO - R10 (5) Rejuvenated since joining Crawford, Purton stays on, looks a big hope   Phillip Woo WINNING OVATION - R11 (5) Has returned in terrific form and has the tools to head higher   Shannon (Vincent Wong) AEROINVINCIBLE - R8 (10) Has sterling 1,400m form and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351435/scmp-best-bets-winning-ovation-can-be-crowd-pleaser-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351435/scmp-best-bets-winning-ovation-can-be-crowd-pleaser-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 25 Apr 2026 13:45:07 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Ka Ying Rising and Romantic Warrior headline Sunday’s FWD Champions Day meeting at Sha Tin when the Hong Kong champions bid to extend their unbeaten records this season and repel a strong overseas contingent. First and second in the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings for 2026 so far, Ka Ying Rising and Romantic Warrior will be short-priced favourites to win the Group One Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1,200m) and Group One QEII Cup (2,000m) respectively at the city’s second-biggest race day on... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351427/star-gallopers-ka-ying-rising-and-romantic-warrior-headline-exciting-champions-day-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351427/star-gallopers-ka-ying-rising-and-romantic-warrior-headline-exciting-champions-day-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 25 Apr 2026 11:01:38 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney For a brief moment in December’s Group One Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m), Hugh Bowman thought he was a chance of ending champion sprinter Ka Ying Rising’s winning streak aboard Helios Express. “Mid-race I sort of thought I was travelling so well, I had the track bias in my favour and I started to think I’m going to blouse down the outside and win at the 500m mark,” Bowman said. “Of course, he battled home for fifth. It was probably his worst result since he’s raced against Ka Ying Rising.” That... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351399/hugh-bowman-wont-change-helios-express-usual-pattern-latest-clash-ka-ying-rising?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351399/hugh-bowman-wont-change-helios-express-usual-pattern-latest-clash-ka-ying-rising?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 25 Apr 2026 04:32:42 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Connections of Ka Ying Rising and Romantic Warrior head into Sunday’s FWD Champions Day at Sha Tin with supreme confidence as the Hong Kong superstars bid for record-extending Group One victories. The two highest-rated horses in the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings for 2026 so far, Ka Ying Rising chases a 20th straight victory in the Group One Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1,200m) while Romantic Warrior will bid to win the Group One QEII Cup (2,000m) for a fourth time. Ka Ying Rising can... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351133/confidence-remains-high-ka-ying-rising-and-romantic-warrior-camps-ahead-champions-day?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351133/confidence-remains-high-ka-ying-rising-and-romantic-warrior-camps-ahead-champions-day?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 23 Apr 2026 09:00:17 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Prominent Australian jockey Ethan Brown made a dream start to his short-term stint in Hong Kong when he guided Shooting To Top to victory at Happy Valley on Wednesday night. In his first meeting in the city, the 11-time Group One winner struck with his third ride when he lifted the heavily-backed Shooting To Top to a narrow win in the Class Four Geranium Handicap (1,650m). “It was great, it’s obviously something we all strive to do – to get the opportunity is one thing, but to get a winner... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351052/ethan-brown-makes-dream-start-hong-kong-stint-happy-valley-win-shooting-top?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3351052/ethan-brown-makes-dream-start-hong-kong-stint-happy-valley-win-shooting-top?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:30:26 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney VIGOR EYE - R4 (6) Went close last time out and will get a soft run on the speed from barrier two   Owen Goulding VIGOR EYE - R4 (6) Unlucky to be nabbed latest and can make good use of stall two and Zac Purton   Olivia O'Sullivan VIGOR EYE - R4 (6) Looks well placed to go one better than last start from a perfect draw   Phillip Woo LIVEANDLETLIVE - R8 (1) Racing well and looks the one to catch from gate three   Shannon (Vincent Wong) VERBIER - R2 (8) Back to Happy Valley looks ideal... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350920/scmp-best-bets-beauty-show-can-be-gorgeous-bet-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350920/scmp-best-bets-beauty-show-can-be-gorgeous-bet-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:42:07 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Six-time Group One winner Voyage Bubble and Sunlight Power must pass two veterinary inspections this week to be cleared to run in Sunday’s Group One Champions Mile at Sha Tin. The Jockey Club’s head of veterinary regulation, welfare and biosecurity policy, Dr Bronte Forbes, reported on Tuesday that routine pre-race inspections revealed Ricky Yiu Poon-fai’s gallopers both developed a capped elbow in one of their front legs. “Dr Forbes advised that both horses are currently subject to veterinary... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350848/six-time-group-one-winner-voyage-bubble-and-sunlight-power-under-cloud-champions-mile?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350848/six-time-group-one-winner-voyage-bubble-and-sunlight-power-under-cloud-champions-mile?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 21 Apr 2026 07:27:38 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney David Hayes has no concerns about the prospect of a rain-affected track for Ka Ying Rising as the champion sprinter bids for a record-extending 20th straight win in Sunday’s Group One Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1,200m) at Sha Tin. The Hong Kong Observatory has predicted showers and occasional thunderstorms on Thursday and Friday, with more showers forecast on Saturday. At this stage, the unstable weather is tipped to clear on Sunday. Ka Ying Rising, who currently sits atop the Longines World’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350698/prospect-wet-track-no-concern-david-hayes-ka-ying-rising-bids-20th-straight-win?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350698/prospect-wet-track-no-concern-david-hayes-ka-ying-rising-bids-20th-straight-win?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:00:21 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Docklands and Royal Champion were the first of the internationals set for FWD Champions Day to arrive in Hong Kong on the weekend, but there were two absentees from the travelling party after the withdrawals of Andreas Vesalius and Native Approach. Docklands and Royal Champion arrived from Britain on Saturday night, with Japan’s six representatives following soon after in the early hours of Sunday morning. Group One winners Masquerade Ball, Jantar Mantar and Satono Reve headline the Land Of The... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350636/champions-day-raiders-arrive-hong-kong-caspar-fownes-reclaims-championship-lead?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350636/champions-day-raiders-arrive-hong-kong-caspar-fownes-reclaims-championship-lead?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 19 Apr 2026 12:45:45 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney AEROVOLANIC - R9 (4) Progressive type who looks hard to beat again in pursuit of a hat-trick   Owen Goulding PATCH OF COSMO - R11 (4) Ran huge races in the Classic Series and can gain a deserved win   Olivia O'Sullivan WINNING WING - R11 (3) Group One placed last start, better suited here and should be flying home   Phillip Woo ARMOUR WAR EAGLE - R7 (1) Racing well and gets golden chance down in grade   Shannon (Vincent Wong) EVERYONE'S STAR - R9 (3) Had a good recent trial with Joao... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350590/scmp-best-bets-winning-wing-can-fly-clear-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350590/scmp-best-bets-winning-wing-can-fly-clear-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 18 Apr 2026 13:55:08 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Perched on 98 wins for the season, Zac Purton hopes to reach his annual benchmark at Sha Tin on Sunday as he looks to build momentum ahead of FWD Champions Day next week. The eight-time champion Hong Kong jockey boasts a strong book of seven rides as he pursues the 100-win milestone for the 10th consecutive season and 11th overall in his glittering career. “To ride 100 winners in a season, you’ve had a great season so it will be good to get there again,” Purton said. “Then we’ve still got a few... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350569/zac-purton-reunites-patch-cosmo-sha-tin-he-seeks-10th-straight-century?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350569/zac-purton-reunites-patch-cosmo-sha-tin-he-seeks-10th-straight-century?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 18 Apr 2026 08:09:59 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Mark Newnham and Zac Purton were rapt with Hong Kong Derby (2,000m) hero Invincible Ibis and Little Paradise’s trials at Sha Tin on Thursday as they prepare to defy history in next week’s Group One Champions Mile. In his first major hit-out since a strong victory in last month’s Derby, Invincible Ibis ran on under little pressure from jockey Hugh Bowman to finish third in a 1,200m dirt trial, which was won by Little Paradise. Newnham was pleased with the performance and has high hopes the son of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350278/invincible-ibis-and-little-paradise-please-mark-newnham-and-zac-purton-ahead-champions-mile-test?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350278/invincible-ibis-and-little-paradise-please-mark-newnham-and-zac-purton-ahead-champions-mile-test?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:00:16 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney FANTASTIC FUN - R3 (1) Went close last start and looks poised to go one better here   Owen Goulding DO YOUR PART - R5 (4) Near miss in a strong race last start and can gain a deserved win   Olivia O'Sullivan FANTASTIC FUN - R3 (1) Went down narrowly latest and this track and distance specialist is the one to beat   Phillip Woo FIVEFORTWO - R8 (5) Should get a race run to suit and can make it a hat-trick of wins over this Valley trip   Shannon (Vincent Wong) RAINBOW SEVEN - R7... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350084/scmp-best-bets-fantastic-fun-can-get-punters-smiling-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3350084/scmp-best-bets-fantastic-fun-can-get-punters-smiling-happy-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 14 Apr 2026 13:32:07 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney The much-anticipated Group One QEII Cup (2,000m) has been reduced to a field of nine after the withdrawals of Japan’s Museum Mile and a trio of locals on Monday. Connections of dual Group One winner Museum Mile confirmed to the Jockey Club on Monday that he won’t take his place. Reports in Japan on the weekend indicated connections had been told by the Jockey Club he was unlikely to pass a Hong Kong vet inspection, based on videos of his gait. Classic Cup (1,800m) winner Stormy Grove has also... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349875/japanese-star-museum-mile-and-trio-local-hopes-withdrawn-qeii-cup?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349875/japanese-star-museum-mile-and-trio-local-hopes-withdrawn-qeii-cup?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 14 Apr 2026 02:00:16 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Ka Ying Rising could race at Conghua in November as the Hong Kong Jockey Club considers a bold proposal to introduce the world’s best sprinter to fans across the border. HKJC boss Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges said the Group Two Jockey Club Sprint (1,200m), the key lead-up race to December’s Group One Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m), could be moved to Conghua for the mainland racecourse’s second meeting of the season. Regular racing at Conghua, a northern district of Guangzhou, will be launched later... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349853/ka-ying-rising-race-conghua-jockey-club-could-showcase-champion-sprinter-mainland?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349853/ka-ying-rising-race-conghua-jockey-club-could-showcase-champion-sprinter-mainland?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 13 Apr 2026 06:00:09 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Prominent bloodstock agent David Price was proud as punch after celebrating the major milestone of 1,000 Hong Kong wins after He Was Me and Elite Golf struck at Sha Tin on Sunday. Founded in 1997, Price’s Price Bloodstock operation has sourced a plethora of outstanding winners such as champion sprinter Silent Witness and fellow Group One victors Contentment, Ivictory and Beauty Eternal. “It’s one of those things that’s hard to get your head around, really. It’s something that went from an... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349807/bloodstock-agent-david-price-celebrates-1000-hong-kong-wins-museum-mile-doubt-qeii-cup?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349807/bloodstock-agent-david-price-celebrates-1000-hong-kong-wins-museum-mile-doubt-qeii-cup?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 12 Apr 2026 11:41:02 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney ENDUED - R8 (4) Will get a perfect run from gate one and can go one better than last start   Owen Goulding ENDUED - R8 (4) Can take up the perfect position behind the leaders and pounce late for glory   Olivia O'Sullivan INVICTUS DRAGON - R4 (7) Consistent sort has placed in three of his last four starts and is due a win   Phillip Woo GHORGAN - R9 (8) Trending the right way and gets a golden chance to win in this race   Shannon (Vincent Wong) GOOD FORTUNE - R2 (1) Drops into Class... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349758/scmp-best-bets-endued-can-show-his-quality-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349758/scmp-best-bets-endued-can-show-his-quality-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Apr 2026 13:42:07 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Buoyed by three winners at the past four meetings, Richard Kingscote hopes his commitment to ride Rising Force at a light weight on Sunday will be vindicated with a Class Two victory. The British jockey lifted his seasonal tally to 12 winners after a dirt double last week and a Class Three triumph on Rising Force, who steps up in grade in Sunday’s Class Two Pilkem Handicap (1,200m). “It’s not easy but I think I’ve done OK, I’m keeping a few of my supporters happy,” Kingscote, who has also ridden... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349737/richard-kingscote-hopes-lightweight-ride-will-be-force-again-im-happy-squeeze-lemon-bit-horse-him?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349737/richard-kingscote-hopes-lightweight-ride-will-be-force-again-im-happy-squeeze-lemon-bit-horse-him?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Apr 2026 07:10:03 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Hugh Bowman has made the tough call to ride My Wish over Hong Kong Derby (2,000m) hero Invincible Ibis in the Group One Champions Mile, with superstar jockey James McDonald replacing him on the latter in the HK$24 million feature. Despite guiding the Mark Newnham-trained Invincible Ibis to an emphatic victory in last month’s Derby, Bowman sided with stablemate My Wish after his fast-finishing second to Lucky Sweynesse in Monday’s Group Two Chairman’s Trophy (1,600m). “It was a tough call. I had... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349481/hugh-bowman-opts-ride-my-wish-champions-mile-james-mcdonald-his-replacement-invincible-ibis?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349481/hugh-bowman-opts-ride-my-wish-champions-mile-james-mcdonald-his-replacement-invincible-ibis?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:51:41 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Hong Kong champions Ka Ying Rising and Romantic Warrior will bid to extend their record-breaking successes against strong international opposition at Sha Tin this month, after the Jockey Club confirmed the expected fields for the three FWD Champions Day features. Ka Ying Rising, who topped March’s first edition of the 2026 Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings, will chase a record-extending 20th straight victory when he defends his Group One Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1,200m) crown on April... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349355/ka-ying-rising-and-romantic-warrior-set-face-strong-overseas-rivals-champions-day?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349355/ka-ying-rising-and-romantic-warrior-set-face-strong-overseas-rivals-champions-day?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 08 Apr 2026 07:10:15 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney PERFECT GENERAL - R8 (4) Unlucky last start but can bounce back with a better draw and Moreira on   Owen Goulding SKY CAP - R6 (2) Won last start the hard way and can repeat the feat with a kinder trip   Olivia O'Sullivan MIGHTY COMMANDER - R9 (4) In good form and looks poised to strike for Moreira   Phillip Woo SKY VINO - R7 (2) Does tick the right boxes on his return to his favourite Valley 1,650m   Shannon (Vincent Wong) MIGHTY COMMANDER - R9 (4) Looks ready to win with Moreira... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349296/scmp-best-bets-mighty-moreira-can-deliver-punters-valley?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349296/scmp-best-bets-mighty-moreira-can-deliver-punters-valley?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 07 Apr 2026 13:30:12 +0000 Jay Rooney,Olivia O'Sullivan Jay Rooney,Olivia O'Sullivan Brett Crawford’s reputation for rejuvenating out-of-form gallopers from other stables went to another level when Mugen snapped a 652-day winning drought at Sha Tin on Monday. In arguably the best training feat of his first season in Hong Kong, Crawford helped the Australian import notch his first victory since the Group Three Premier Cup (1,400m) in 2024 for Pierre Ng Pang-chi when he stormed home to claim Monday’s Class Two Barker Handicap (1,400m). Mugen had lost form since his Group One... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349187/brett-crawford-keeps-stable-transfer-momentum-rolling-mugen-while-mark-newnham-bags-bittersweet?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349187/brett-crawford-keeps-stable-transfer-momentum-rolling-mugen-while-mark-newnham-bags-bittersweet?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 06 Apr 2026 12:58:42 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Continuing a dream first week in the saddle in Hong Kong, apprentice Nichola Yuen Hang-yiu drew high praise from Douglas Whyte after booting home the former champion jockey’s sprinter Fast Responder at Sha Tin on Monday. Fresh from her successful Hong Kong debut when guiding PI Legend to victory on the Sha Tin dirt on Wednesday night, Yuen landed her first Sha Tin turf triumph when she lifted Fast Responder to a thrilling success in the Class Four Bluff Handicap (1,000m). Fired to the front from... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349186/apprentice-nichola-yuen-draws-high-praise-douglas-whyte-after-first-sha-tin-turf-winner?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349186/apprentice-nichola-yuen-draws-high-praise-douglas-whyte-after-first-sha-tin-turf-winner?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 06 Apr 2026 12:41:51 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney LUCKY RANGER - R4 (2) Smart last-start winner who has the tools to head much higher   Owen Goulding SIX PACK - R10 (8) Will get the box seat behind a searing pace and can atone for a near-miss latest   Olivia O'Sullivan GLOWING PRAISES - R6 (1) Lost out by a nose last time despite widest draw and has much better gate here   Phillip Woo GLOWING PRAISES - R6 (1) Is the one to beat on the back of two solid runs over this track and trip   Shannon (Vincent Wong) LUCKY RANGER - R4... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349096/scmp-best-bets-lucky-ranger-can-be-good-omen-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349096/scmp-best-bets-lucky-ranger-can-be-good-omen-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 05 Apr 2026 13:33:08 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Having broken Silent Witness’ Hong Kong record of 17 consecutive wins, David Hayes has a more simple target up next for his champion sprinter Ka Ying Rising. “We’d just like to go two-and-a-half years undefeated,” Hayes said ahead of Ka Ying Rising’s bid for a 19th straight victory in Monday’s Group Two Sprint Cup (1,200m) at Sha Tin. “Two undefeated seasons in a row – it’s a very special horse, isn’t it? If he can win two Speed Series and The Everest in between, that would be wonderful.” Fresh... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349075/another-undefeated-season-prime-aim-david-hayes-champion-sprinter-ka-ying-rising?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349075/another-undefeated-season-prime-aim-david-hayes-champion-sprinter-ka-ying-rising?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 05 Apr 2026 07:00:21 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Leading trainer Mark Newnham has high hopes the drop back to 1,600m and Group Two level can propel My Wish to victory in Monday’s Chairman’s Trophy (1,600m) at Sha Tin. Touted as a Group One winner in waiting after a top four-year-old campaign, the pint-sized son of Flying Artie started his current season on fire with victories in the Group Three Celebration Cup (1,400m) and Group Two Sha Tin Trophy (1,600m). However, since rising to level weights and then Group One company again, he has found... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349022/mark-newnham-hopes-return-mile-and-group-two-level-propels-my-wish-chairmans-trophy-glory?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3349022/mark-newnham-hopes-return-mile-and-group-two-level-propels-my-wish-chairmans-trophy-glory?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 04 Apr 2026 05:17:41 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Could all three winners of this year’s Classic Series features add another layer of intrigue and excitement to the Group One Champions Mile on April 26? That could certainly be the case with connections of Hong Kong Derby (2,000m) hero Invincible Ibis, Classic Cup (1,800m) victor Stormy Grove and Classic Mile winner Little Paradise setting their sights on the HK$24 million feature. The four-year-old series is the most talked about group of races in Hong Kong every year and is the launching pad... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3348814/classic-mile-winner-little-paradise-bound-champions-mile-while-sosie-confirmed-qe-ii-cup?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3348814/classic-mile-winner-little-paradise-bound-champions-mile-while-sosie-confirmed-qe-ii-cup?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 02 Apr 2026 09:58:07 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney SPEEDY SMARTIE - R4 (2) Has thrived on the dirt this season and trialled nicely since his last run   Owen Goulding TOURBILLON GOLFER - R6 (1) Should get a soft lead from gate one and won his last Class Four start easily   Olivia O'Sullivan ACE POWER - R6 (8) Closing second on first start for new stable latest, blinkers on and will fly home   Phillip Woo ONLY U - R1 (3) Good form across both surfaces this term and deserves a win   Shannon (Vincent Wong) VICTORY SKY - R8 (4) Big run... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3348572/scmp-best-bets-speedy-smartie-can-live-his-name-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3348572/scmp-best-bets-speedy-smartie-can-live-his-name-sha-tin?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 31 Mar 2026 13:20:07 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Andrea Atzeni’s massive month saw him surpass Zac Purton’s winning haul in March, while two trainers stood out from the rest of their peers and Invincible Ibis stormed to victory in the Hong Kong Derby (2,000m). The SCMP analyses the jockeys and trainers who had a month to remember or one to forget, as well as the most outstanding victory and winning ride. Who’s hot? Atzeni fired in 14 winners from 73 rides at a strong strike rate of just over 19 per cent, with the Sardinian notching his best... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3348388/hong-kong-racing-postscript-whos-hot-whos-not-and-best-march?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3348388/hong-kong-racing-postscript-whos-hot-whos-not-and-best-march?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:00:09 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Frankie Lor Fu-chuen has plenty of reason to be excited about the future with Salon S after the three-year-old extended his unblemished record in style at Sha Tin on Sunday. After opening his career with three front-running victories, the Zousain gelding went to another level when he overcame top weight of 134lb and a wide draw in gate 10 in the Class Three S.H. Ho Alumni Handicap (1,400m). Sent to the front again by Matthew Poon Ming-fai, Salon S justified $1.2 favouritism when he kept on... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3348305/boom-three-year-old-salon-s-lights-sha-tin-turf-again-extend-unbeaten-streak-four?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3348305/boom-three-year-old-salon-s-lights-sha-tin-turf-again-extend-unbeaten-streak-four?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 29 Mar 2026 11:26:17 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Jay Rooney GALACTIC VOYAGE - R9 (11) Looks well placed to handle the rise to Class Two and score a hat-trick   Owen Goulding GENEVA - R10 (2) Ran a cracker off an injury layoff and a big step forward is expected   Olivia O'Sullivan RELENTLESS PURSUIT - R7 (8) Ran on well on debut and strips fitter second up   Phillip Woo GALACTIC VOYAGE - R9 (11) Exciting prospect has the tools to make it three on the bounce   Shannon (Vincent Wong) SALON S - R8 (1) Progressive youngster won three times in a row... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3348263/scmp-best-bets-galactic-can-take-punters-voyage-sha-tin-success?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3348263/scmp-best-bets-galactic-can-take-punters-voyage-sha-tin-success?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 28 Mar 2026 13:56:07 +0000 Jay Rooney Jay Rooney Romantic Warrior continued his preparation for next month’s much-anticipated Group One QE II Cup (2,000m) with an impressive trial win at Sha Tin on Thursday, while Hugh Bowman reserved special praise for My Wish after his victory in a separate heat. Headlining a strong contingent of Champions Day contenders trialling on the dirt, Romantic Warrior pleased trainer Danny Shum Chap-shing and Bowman when he tracked the speed and cruised to victory by a length in 1:10.70 over 1,200m. “I’m very happy;... https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3347950/romantic-warrior-warms-qe-ii-cup-trial-win-while-my-wish-impresses-hugh-bowman?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/racing/article/3347950/romantic-warrior-warms-qe-ii-cup-trial-win-while-my-wish-impresses-hugh-bowman?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 26 Mar 2026 05:25:13 +0000