Get ready for an exciting twist in Hong Kong's racing scene! The return of superstar jockey Joao Moreira to the city's tracks has everyone buzzing.
Moreira, a four-time champion rider, will be back in action for the final stretch of the season, riding for Caspar Fownes' stable. The Jockey Club's approval of Fownes' application has sparked joy and anticipation among fans and owners alike.
But here's where it gets controversial... Fownes' earlier attempt to secure Moreira's services on a short-term basis was denied due to a full roster of riders. However, this time, with the club's blessing, Moreira is set to ride for Fownes exclusively from April 7 until the season's end on July 15.
Fownes, currently leading the championship race with 36 wins, believes Moreira's return will boost his chances of claiming a fifth trainers' title.
"Who wouldn't be thrilled to have a superstar like Moreira on their team?" Fownes exclaimed. "I'm overjoyed, and I know the fans and owners will be eager to see him back in action. It's going to be an exhilarating ride!"
Under the retainership agreement, a majority of Fownes' stable owners must contribute to Moreira's retainer, ensuring his exclusive services. In return, these supporting owners get priority access to Moreira's riding skills.
Fownes is confident that Moreira, with over 1,200 wins in Hong Kong, will be a game-changer. "He'll be riding most of our horses, and I'm up for the challenge of fighting for the championship with him by my side."
And this is the part most people miss... the retainership agreement also allows Moreira to accept outside rides when not needed by Fownes' stable, ensuring he remains active and engaged.
Meanwhile, in other racing news, Jimmy Ting Koon-ho is gearing up for the Classic Cup with his star horse, Little Paradise. Ting believes the horse's improved demeanor and fitness will handle the 1,800m race with ease, especially after its impressive win in the Classic Mile.
Little Paradise's blistering performance in the Classic Mile, where it broke the race record, has set high expectations for the upcoming Classic Series. With six wins from nine starts, Little Paradise aims to join the elite club of horses that have won both the Classic Mile and the Classic Cup.
The prestigious HK$26 million BMW Hong Kong Derby is just around the corner on March 22, and the racing world is abuzz with anticipation.
So, what do you think? Will Moreira's return be the game-changer Fownes hopes for? And can Little Paradise continue its winning streak? Let's discuss in the comments!
