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| Staff Writer |
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Fresh from being crowned the Longines World's Best Jockey for 2024, James McDonald is making waves in Hong Kong with seven winners at an impressive 22.6 per cent strike rate. The Kiwi ace, who commenced his short-term contract with doubles at his first three meetings, is maintaining his stellar form through to his scheduled departure on December 22.
Derek Leung Ka-chun transformed his fortune after a frustrating start to the season, securing seven victories including a drought-breaking treble at Sha Tin. The resurgent local rider, however, faces setbacks with careless riding suspensions from three consecutive meetings.
Tony Cruz and rising star Cody Mo Wai-kit have emerged as the month's standout trainers, each notching eight winners. Cruz's remarkable four-timer at Happy Valley propelled him to sixth in the championship, whilst Mo, in just his second season, achieved his maiden treble at Sha Tin, securing seventh position.
Hugh Bowman's November proved challenging with just three winners from 51 rides, though the Australian finally broke through with Gallant Valour at Happy Valley, following up with Rocket Spade on the same card. Meanwhile, Alexis Badel continues seeking his first November success after 45 attempts.
Despite David Hayes' early-season momentum being checked with just two winners, his position remains strong in the championship's top five, trailing leader Pierre Ng Pang-chi by merely five victories.
The highlight of November came through Ka Ying Rising's phenomenal victory in the Gr.2 Jockey Club Sprint (1,200m). The emerging star shattered the track record, eclipsing the mark set by Hong Kong sprint legend Sacred Kingdom - a previous winner who claimed multiple Group One successes including the 2007 Hong Kong Sprint and 2009 Singapore Sprint - by 0.07 seconds with a commanding three-and-a-quarter length triumph.
Andrea Atzeni delivered a tactical masterpiece aboard Beauty Destiny at Happy Valley. Starting from barrier 10, Atzeni orchestrated a perfect trip, settling last on the rail before timing his run to perfection. His decisive move to peel off the fence 400m out proved crucial, as Beauty Destiny stormed home to claim victory by a shorthead. Zac Purton's expert navigation on Super Love Dragon from barrier 12 at Sha Tin also merited recognition as one of November's finest riding displays.