Apprentice jockey Angus Chung Yik-lai is set to make a much-anticipated return to racing at Happy Valley on Wednesday night. After a brief hiatus, where he absorbed the thrills of the International Jockeys’ Championship as a spectator, Chung is eager to get back in the saddle and pursue more victories.
Chung, currently holding an impressive fourth position in the premiership with 19 wins, strategically chose to serve his careless riding suspension during Hong Kong’s premier racing week. “It was an incredible experience watching top jockeys like Ryan Moore and Maxime Guyon in action, and witnessing the prowess of Hong Kong’s equine stars,” Chung shared, reflecting on his time away from racing. Despite enjoying the spectacle, he expressed his excitement to return: “I’m really looking forward to my next win.”
The young jockey’s comeback aligns with several promising rides at the upcoming midweek meeting. One of his notable mounts is Atomic Energy, trained by Tony Cruz. Chung has previously secured two victories from eight rides with this four-year-old and is optimistic about their chances in the Class Three Choi Wan Handicap (1,000m), especially after Atomic Energy’s commendable second-place finish in his last start under jockey Alexis Badel. “I believe Atomic Energy has a strong winning potential in this race,” Chung stated, hoping for a favorable midfield position from gate one.
In addition to Atomic Energy, Chung has notable opportunities in two Class Five events. He will partner with Happy Horse, trained by Manfred Man Ka-leung, in the Ngau Tau Kok Handicap (1,000m) and Cruz’s Regency Happy Star in the Sau Mau Ping Handicap (1,650m). Happy Horse, coming off a recent win, is a ride Chung feels particularly confident about. “The field isn’t very strong, and with the pacifiers helping him settle last time, I think Happy Horse stands a good chance of repeating his success,” he explained.
For Regency Happy Star, Chung is hopeful of a stronger performance, attributing the horse’s recent underwhelming outings to an unfavorable pace. “This race should have a quicker pace, which will suit Regency Happy Star better,” Chung remarked.
Chung’s roster for the evening also includes rides on Serangoon, Up And Up, You’remyeverything, and Superb Capitalist, providing him with multiple opportunities to showcase his skill and add to his impressive tally of wins. With his sights set on continued success, Chung’s return to Happy Valley is eagerly anticipated by racing enthusiasts and promises to add an exciting dynamic to the event.
READ MORE: