James McDonald’s Stellar Conclusion in Hong Kong

HONG KONG - Renowned jockey James McDonald concluded his impressive short-term engagement in Hong Kong on a sparkling note by securing four victories at Sha Tin racetrack on December 22. His standout performance included two prestigious Group 1 wins, cementing his legacy in the region while generating a staggering prize money of over HK$72 million (approximately S$12.55 million) for his connections throughout the series of 11 race meetings.

Impressive Statistics and Earnings

McDonald, celebrated as the 2024 Longines World’s Best Jockey, boasted a remarkable set of statistics, achieving four wins alongside a second and a third place finish from nine rides at Sha Tin. His tally for the visit totaled 19 wins and 21 placings from 89 rides, making his overall earnings HK$72,033,605, a figure only surpassed this season by fellow jockey Zac Purton, who amassed HK$81.9 million.

Victories at the Longines Hong Kong International Races

His strike rate was particularly evident at the HK$126 million Longines Hong Kong International Races, where he clinched victories aboard highly regarded horses: the magnificent Romantic Warrior in the HK$40 million Group 1 Longines Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) and the stunning Voyage Bubble in the HK$36 million Group 1 Longines Hong Kong Mile (1,600m). During his final day at Sha Tin, McDonald rode to success on Super Legends ($27), Lady's Choice ($37), Divano ($12), and Johannes Brahms ($14).

Future Plans and Reflections

The celebrated New Zealander has plans to return to Hong Kong to partner with the highly touted Voyage Bubble once again in the upcoming HK$13 million Group 1 Stewards' Cup (1,600m) on January 19, following a seven-meeting suspension due to careless riding stemming from an incident on December 15.

Reflecting on his time in Hong Kong, McDonald expressed his gratitude, stating, "I’ve absolutely loved every minute of it except for last Sunday (Dec 15), which did throw a bit of a downer on the whole trip, but overall it’s been brilliant." Currently, McDonald ranks fourth in the Hong Kong jockeys' championship, trailing behind Purton (51 wins), Hugh Bowman (26), and Vincent Ho (21).

Highlights of the Racing Experience

He noted, "Those horses (Romantic Warrior and Voyage Bubble) have been the highlights, and I really enjoyed every meeting—most meetings, I got winners so it was good." McDonald began his successful day by riding Danny Shum's Super Legends to victory in the HK$1.17 million Class 4 Hibiscus Handicap (1,200m), followed by a victory on Lady's Choice in the HK$1.86 million Class 3 Pok Oi Cup Handicap (1,200m) for trainer Michael Chang. He continued his success with Divano and Johannes Brahms in subsequent races.

Looking Forward to the Future

With such a stellar performance, fans can’t help but wonder what McDonald will bring to the upcoming racing season in Hong Kong! Mark your calendars for January 19 to see him back in action!