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| Staff Writer |
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Last weekend, Hong Kong racing witnessed what could be considered the greatest individual performance in its history, captivating an audience of sixty-five thousand people. The victory of Golden Sixty in the Group One Mile was so extraordinary that it is highly likely that thousands more will soon join the conversation, claiming to have been present at the event, as Hongkongers continue to discuss and marvel at the wonder horse in the years to come.
On Sunday, Golden Sixty won a Group One race in Hong Kong, beating Voyage Bubble by one and a half lengths. It was a historic moment, as Golden Sixty became the seventh horse to win a Group One race in Hong Kong at the age of eight or older.
The race was held in front of a packed Sha Tin enclosure, with racing fans appreciating the equine greatness on display. Golden Sixty's victory is especially notable because he won from the outside gate and in his first race in 224 days, beating a world-class field.
Golden Sixty's achievement is even more impressive when compared to the other six Hong Kong racing legends who won Group One races at the age of eight or older. Oriental Express, Collier Hill, Viva Pataca, Able One, Joy and Fun, and Aerovelocity all achieved this feat, but Golden Sixty has surpassed their records. Golden Sixty's final Group One victory was especially remarkable as he won it from the outside gate or first up.
Australian jockey Luke Currie was less fortunate during his time in Hong Kong. He left Hong Kong with 20 wins and 39 placings from 508 starts. Some punters may argue that Currie failed in Hong Kong, but according to the starting prices of his 508 rides, his results were consistent with market forecasts.
Currie's shortest-priced conveyance was US$3.90 second elect Reward Smile when the John Size-trained sprinter ran second to US$2.25 winner Lucky Encounter on May 21. Hopefully, Currie will have better luck in Australia and will receive a reasonable opportunity to succeed.