Champion jockey Zac Purton is planning a brief hiatus from the racetrack in early January 2024, according to an announcement by the Jockey Club. Purton, a six-time champion and record-holder with 11 Hong Kong International Races victories, including his recent triumph aboard Lucky Sweynesse in the Group One Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m), will miss three race meetings scheduled for 4, 7, and 10 January. Despite his upcoming absence, Purton is currently leading the championship with 39 wins, holding a significant advantage over closest rival Karis Teetan.
This weekend at Sha Tin, Purton is set to ride in nine races, with his most notable mount being the David Hall-trained sprinter Invincible Sage in the Class Two Lukfook Jewellery Cup (1,000m). Invincible Sage, unbeaten this season, has shown impressive form, with Purton confident about the horse’s abilities in Class Two. “He’s a talented horse, and he’s up in grade but down in weight,” Purton noted, expressing optimism about Invincible Sage’s prospects.
Invincible Sage, a three-time winner in Australia, has been on a winning streak since his move to Hong Kong. Trainer Hall has praised the horse’s ability to navigate challenging situations and is keen to see how he fares in the upcoming race. While Invincible Sage was considered for the Hong Kong Sprint, Hall opted for a more gradual approach, focusing on the 1,000m race.
Alongside Invincible Sage, Purton and Hall are teaming up with Ka Ying Victory in the Class Three Lukfook Jewellery Beloved Collection Handicap (1,200m). Despite not securing a win together this season, they are hopeful of turning their fortunes around. Ka Ying Victory, transitioning from Griffin races, faces a formidable challenge in the open-age Class
Three category. Purton remarked on the significant jump from Griffin races, emphasizing the need to assess Ka Ying Victory’s performance in the open-age category.
Hall also acknowledged the difficulty of the task ahead for Ka Ying Victory, a three-year-old emerging from Griffin form. The strength of the upcoming race adds to the challenge, but Hall remains curious to see how the young horse will perform.
Purton’s decision to take a break in the new year strategically positions him to maintain his lead in the title race. His absence from three meetings is a calculated move, allowing him some respite while holding a comfortable lead. His return to the track will undoubtedly be eagerly anticipated by racing enthusiasts and followers.
The upcoming races at Sha Tin present a crucial juncture in the racing season. Purton’s rides on Invincible Sage and Ka Ying Victory are particularly significant, as they could potentially extend his lead further before his scheduled break. These races will be closely watched by fans and competitors alike, as they could set the tone for the rest of the season.
Purton’s expertise and experience have made him a formidable force in horse racing. His ability to bring out the best in his mounts, combined with strategic planning, has consistently placed him at the top of the racing world. As he prepares for his brief hiatus, the racing community awaits to see how this strategic move plays out in the ongoing championship race.
The attention now turns to the upcoming weekend at Sha Tin, where Purton’s performance will be critical in cementing his position in the championship. With the excitement building up, all eyes will be on Purton and his mounts as they vie for victory in what promises to be an enthralling series of races.
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