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Hong Kong racing
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SCMP Editorial
SCMP Editorial

Editorial | Ka Ying Rising’s Sydney victory can lift Hong Kong racing scene

The Hong Kong sprinter’s exhilarating finish reinforced both his reputation and that of the city in the racing world

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Ka Ying Rising (left), ridden by jockey Zac Purton, wins The Everest 2025 race at the Royal Randwick racecourse in Sydney on October 18. Photo: AFP
SCMP Editorial
Hong Kong racehorse Ka Ying Rising was already a superstar when he arrived in Australia for the world’s richest turf race, but the five-year-old’s stunning victory in The Everest in Sydney has confirmed his status as the best sprinter in the sport. The dramatic win has also reinforced the city’s reputation as a leading player in the racing world.
Ka Ying Rising started the race on the back of an impressive run of 13 wins, but he still had to prove the doubters wrong. A horse from overseas had never won The Everest, and the conditions were unfamiliar. Ka Ying Rising spent four weeks in quarantine and was not at his best in a trial in Sydney earlier this month. There were even false social media rumours he might be withdrawn from the race.

But the champion showed his true colours, sweeping to victory before a crowd of more than 50,000 people to collect the A$7 million (US$4.5 million) prize. Congratulations are due to jockey Zac Purton, trainer David Hayes and owner Leung Shek-kong for their outstanding achievement.

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Ka Ying Rising has cemented his place in the Hong Kong hall of fame for racehorses, joining other champions such as Silent Witness and Sacred Kingdom. Romantic Warrior, the highest-earning racehorse of all time, won in Melbourne in 2023 and at the Jebel Hatta in Dubai this January. The star appeal of these serial winners is a big draw for tourists who visit the city for the races. Ka Ying Rising’s appearance in Sydney should also pave the way for more top Australian racehorses to compete in Hong Kong.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club is enhancing race-day facilities to give fans a more enjoyable experience, but it is also improving the environment for jockeys and horses, which is essential if the city is to continue to excel. Upgraded facilities for jockeys unveiled in Sha Tin include a new gym with plunge pools and a steam room. The stables have been renovated, with sheltered walking zones and equine treadmills among features to make the horses more comfortable.
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Ka Ying Rising has made Hong Kong proud. As the city continues to develop its horse racing expertise and entertainment, we can expect more winners to emerge.

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