Breaking Records in Hong Kong Horse Racing: Zac Purton’s Unstoppable Four-Timer Marks Best Season Opening

Zac Purton has taken Hong Kong horse racing by storm, setting a new personal benchmark with an electrifying start to the 2024-25 season. With a stunning display at Sha Tin on Sunday, Purton has rewritten his own record for the best start to a campaign, clinching a remarkable nine wins from the first three meetings.

In a performance that echoed his 2022-23 season record, where he achieved an unprecedented 179 victories, Purton's dominance was evident as he repeated his four-timer from the season opener. This season, however, he has upped the ante, showcasing his unparalleled skill and determination.

Super Infinity

The day kicked off with a bang as Purton steered Super Infinity to a dazzling debut win in the Class Four Kwong Fuk Handicap (1,200m), trained by Mark Newnham. As the $1.7 favorite, Super Infinity wasn’t just popular it was practically a celebrity.

Purton’s strategy was smoother than a silk tie, as he zoomed to the front and left Affirm trailing in the dust at the 200m mark. The horse bolted past King Oberon for a solid length-and-a-quarter win, with Jubilant Winner trailing in third.

Newnham, visibly thrilled, praised Purton’s ride and hinted at further potential from Super Infinity, who had shown promise in his previous outings.

Charmander

Purton's wizardry rolled on as he piloted Charmander to victory, giving trainer David Hall the first half of a winning double in the Class Five Wah Fu Handicap (1,400m). Despite starting from barrier 12 and sitting at the rear early on, Charmander showcased impressive finishing speed to narrowly defeat Perfect Peach by a head. This victory marked Charmander’s first win after 24 starts, a testament to Purton’s ability to extract the best from his mounts.

Hall’s successful day wasn’t over yet. Mr Energia, piloted by Harry Bentley, capped Hall’s double with a fast-finishing victory in the Class Four Hing Wah Handicap (1,200m) on the dirt. Bentley’s expert handling added to Hall’s already fruitful day, marking a promising start to the season.

Purton and So Wai-yin

Purton's winning streak turned into a full-blown race-day party with trainer Chris So Wai-yin. First up was Devas Twelve in the Class Four Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Challenge Cup (1,400m), followed by Super Win Dragon in the Class Three Oi Tung Handicap (1,200m) on the dirt. Notably, Purton has been the driving force behind all three of So’s winners this season, including Go Go Go, who clinched a win in the season opener.

Zac Purton’s extraordinary start to the Hong Kong racing season has set a new standard for excellence. His ability to secure wins on a diverse range of horses and courses highlights his exceptional talent and adaptability. As the season progresses, Purton’s continued success will undoubtedly be a major talking point in the world of horse racing.

With a personal best to his name and an impressive tally already on the board, Zac Purton is poised to make this season one of his most memorable yet. Racing enthusiasts and pundits alike will be eagerly watching to see if Purton can maintain this blistering pace and continue to rewrite the record books.