Champion jockey Zac Purton is set to partner the talented Patch Of Cosmo for trainer Manfred Man in a competitive mile handicap at Sha Tin this Friday, 16th January 2026. The pairing, fresh from a midweek double at Happy Valley, will aim to continue their formidable strike-rate in the Tennis 1600m Handicap, scheduled for 9:50am.
A Formidable Partnership Seeks Another Win
The combination of Zac Purton and trainer Manfred Man has been a potent force this season, boasting an impressive 26 percent win strike-rate. They demonstrated their effectiveness just last Sunday with the well-backed favourite Robot Star. Man's stable is in fine form, currently sitting fifth in the championship table with 20 winners and having saddled three victors in the past ten days alone.
Patch Of Cosmo: A Horse with Upside
The New Zealand-bred Patch Of Cosmo showed rapid improvement last year, securing four wins. His victories included a successful seasonal debut and three competitive handicaps before a leg injury in March ended his campaign prematurely. Now fully recovered, his readiness is underscored by Purton having taken the mount in both his recent trials and his final two preparatory gallops.
Having won impressively on his only previous attempt over the mile distance, the gelding appears fit and primed for a strong seasonal reappearance. His proven ability at the trip and clear potential for further progression make him a leading contender.
The Challengers Lining Up
The opposition includes several capable rivals. Ka Ying Attack will attempt the mile for the first time, while King Lotus and Fortune Boy are useful handicappers currently seeking a return to winning ways.
Perhaps the most intriguing threat comes from Stormy Grove. The lightly raced contender is making a quick turnaround after being narrowly denied over seven furlongs last week. Stepping up to a mile could bring about further improvement, positioning him as a principal danger to the favourite.
With Purton in the saddle and the Manfred Man yard firing on all cylinders, Patch Of Cosmo is poised to be very difficult to beat as he makes his much-anticipated return to the track at Sha Tin.
