The 2024/25 Hong Kong racing season, set to conclude with its 88th event at 6:30 am on Wednesday, July 16th, has shown a usual pattern with favorites winning about 33% of the time. The average race fields have been nearly 18 horses, with an average winning price of 12.2. This racing season—from modestly rated handicap races to international Grade 1 stakes included in the World Pool calendar—remains a premier gambling spectacle. Races often feature full gates, with 12 starters at Happy Valley and 14 at Sha Tin, and the Hong Kong Jockey Club website offers an almost endless amount of detailed information for fans.
Zach Parton has dominated this season as a leading jockey, boasting a win rate over 23% and securing most wins on various courses including Sha Tin Turf, All Weather, and Happy Valley. At 42 years old, he remains a formidable force, outperforming rivals like Hugh Bowman who trails with an almost 12% win rate. Fellow jockeys Ellis Wong and Britney Wong also had standout years, with 25 and 18 wins respectively, showcasing their growing prowess in the racing circuit.
The trainer competition remained fierce, with John Size emerging as the 13th champion trainer, followed closely by David Hayes, while about ten other trainers achieved around ten wins each. This competitive balance added excitement and unpredictability to the handicapping challenge throughout the season.
On the horse front, Hong Kong racing was highlighted by exceptional performers both locally and internationally. Romantic Warrior stood out with victories in the G1 Hong Kong Cup and G1 Jebel Hatta in Dubai, narrowly missing the $20 million G1 Saudi Arabia Cup but cementing his status as a top money earner globally. Voyage Bubble shone domestically, capturing four Group 1 Stakes including the Hong Kong Triple Crown, while Ka Ying Rising dazzled with an undefeated record of eight wins, including four Group 1 Stakes, and is being prepped for a potential campaign in Australia’s G1 Everest race later this year.
This season demonstrated remarkable depth and strength across the Hong Kong racing scene, with many horses rising through the ranks and promising newcomers ready to step up in the next season. While the summer break offers a pause, anticipation is already building for the upcoming season’s kickoff, keeping fans excited and engaged.
Originally reported by Paulick Report on July 14, 2025.
Fan Take: This comprehensive overview of Hong Kong’s 2024/25 racing season underscores the global prestige and competitive spirit of this premier racing hub. For horse racing enthusiasts, it signals a thrilling future filled with rising stars and intense jockey and trainer rivalries that will continue elevating the sport’s worldwide appeal.
