Purton Poised for Pre-HKIR Confidence Boost at Sha Tin
Racing fans in Hong Kong are set for a diverse treat this Sunday, 7th December 2025, with a ten-race card at Sha Tin featuring five contests on turf and five on the all-weather track. The meeting serves as a crucial final tune-up before the prestigious Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) take centre stage next weekend. With stables and jockeys eager to secure a confidence-boosting victory before the big event, all eyes will be on the man in irresistible form: eight-time champion jockey Zac Purton.
The Zac Purton Factor: A Jockey at His Peak
Confidence is seldom in short supply for Zac Purton, and his current form provides ample justification. The Australian rider, known as the 'Zac-Man', is widely regarded as the best in the business in Hong Kong. He is riding at the peak of his powers, demonstrated by a remarkable haul of 16 winners in November alone. His ability to pick and choose the best mounts makes his Sunday book of rides a significant pointer for punters and racing enthusiasts.
Key Mounts for the Champion Jockey
Purton has two particularly interesting engagements on the Sha Tin programme. The first comes in the Mody Handicap (9.15am) over an extended mile on the all-weather surface, where he partners the Danny Shum-trained Allcash. This former prolific winner in Brazil finally opened his Hong Kong account with a victory at Happy Valley recently. Having won four times on dirt in his homeland, he appears expertly targeted for this contest. Purton, who is riding close to his minimum weight, has previously won on stablemates like Excellence Value and Reliable Profit, adding further credence to the selection.
Purton has caused a notable stir with his second key ride. In the Salisbury Handicap (9.50am) over seven furlongs, he deserts the Chris So-trained Top Dragon, a horse he has ridden to three victories. Instead, he opts for the top-weight Little Paradise. This son of Toronado was a beaten favourite when third under Purton last month, but had valid excuses after over-racing in a slowly run race. With a stronger gallop anticipated here, Little Paradise is expected to show significant improvement.
Building Momentum for the International Stage
While Purton may feel some pressure ahead of riding the unbackable Ka Ying Rising in the Longines Hong Kong Sprint next week, his self-assurance is well-founded. Sunday's races offer him the perfect opportunity to fine-tune his rhythm and enter the HKIR week on a high. For connections and followers of the sport, his selections provide fascinating clues. The performances of Allcash and Little Paradise will be closely watched as indicators of both the horses' potential and Purton's readiness for the international challenges that lie ahead.
