Ka Ying Rising has prevailed in the tightest Hong Kong Horse of the Year fight in years, with the David Hayes-trained superstar crowned at the Jockey Club’s Champion Awards gala dinner at the Rosewood on Friday night.

Ka Ying Rising’s undefeated eight-win season, which included four Group One victories, was enough to see him get the nod over Voyage Bubble, who also won four Group Ones this term, and globetrotting giant Romantic Warrior.

Ka Ying Rising also scooped the Champion Sprinter and Champion Four-Year-Old awards, while Romantic Warrior enjoyed Champion Middle-Distance Horse honours and Voyage Bubble was named Champion Miler and Champion Stayer.

Mark Newnham’s My Wish won Most Improved Horse, while the 2024-25 Champion Griffin will be announced at next week’s season finale.