A big week for Ka Ying Rising is poised to get even bigger as the world’s best sprinter chases a record-equalling 17th straight win in Sunday’s Group One Centenary Sprint Cup (1,200m) at Sha Tin.
Fresh from being crowned Timeform’s Horse of the Year and the joint second-best horse in the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings, the David Hayes-trained superstar will bid to equal Silent Witness’ Hong Kong record of consecutive victories on the weekend.
Hayes said Ka Ying Rising remains in peak form after his sensational victory in last month’s Group One Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m).
“I’m looking forward to it. He’s in great shape and if we can win, it will be a privilege to equal Silent Witness’ record,” Hayes said of the record which has stood since 2005.
“To win those awards through the week, that was wonderful and it looks like he’s held his form, so I’m expecting a good run.”
Ka Ying Rising’s eight wins from as many starts in 2025 were recognised in the release of the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings on Tuesday, with the son of Shamexpress rated the world’s best sprinter and Hong Kong’s highest-rated galloper in history.
His rating of 128 surpassed the figure achieved previously by Hong Kong legends Able Friend (127), Beauty Generation (127) and Golden Sixty (126).
He was second only to French star Calandagan, who was rated 130 after an outstanding year highlighted by Group One victories in the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud (2,400m), King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2,392m), Champion Stakes (1,993m) and Japan Cup (2,400m).
Can he do it...!? 👀
— HKJC Racing (@HKJC_Racing) January 22, 2026
Following the footsteps of the great Silent Witness, Ka Ying Rising will aim to match his predecessor's 17-race unbeaten streak on Sunday at Sha Tin! 🚀#SpeedSeries | #LoveRacing | #HKracing pic.twitter.com/m12OcQ4IfL
Facing six rivals on Sunday, Ka Ying Rising will jump from barrier four with champion jockey Zac Purton again on board.
The Centenary Sprint Cup is one of two Group One features at Sha Tin, with the much-anticipated clash between champions Romantic Warrior and Voyage Bubble in the Stewards’ Cup (1,600m) another highlight.
Romantic Warrior joined Ka Ying Rising in the top 10 of the World’s Best Racehorse Rankings, rated equal seventh on a mark of 127.
While there will be plenty of action on the track, there will also be excitement off it on the annual Gentlemen’s Raceday, including a performance by popular singer Jay Fung and a Best Dressed Award contest.
