Zac Purton is confident that Car In Rising made a significant stride toward competing in the HK$28 million G1 Longines Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) scheduled for Sunday, December 14, in Sha Tin, Hong Kong. Car In Rising, who has had strong performances in his last 15 races, is chasing a spot alongside the legendary Golden Sixty, aiming for an impressive 16 consecutive wins—just one short of Silent Witness’s Hong Kong record of 17. On Tuesday morning, Car In Rising was seen trotting calmly around the sand ring and then moving on to the main dirt track, displaying a composed demeanor under Purton’s guidance.
In front of a group of local and international media, Car In Rising showed his usual calmness and passed Purton’s assessment with ease, signaling his readiness to be crowned Hong Kong Horse of the Year for the 2024/25 season. Purton noted how the horse was notably more relaxed than before, freely trotting in areas where he usually prefers to play around. After undergoing a puncture treatment last week, Car In Rising has mellowed and performed better, turning into a different horse altogether. The gelding, known as the Siamese Express, also secured a HK$5 million bonus last season through three Hong Kong Speed Series races during his unbeaten streak, achieving a time of 23.2 seconds in the 400m sprint.
Jockey Purton, a Hall of Fame inductee with 1,923 wins in Hong Kong— the most in the region’s history—has ridden many champions, including the celebrated miler Beauty Generation. He expressed gratitude and excitement working with Car In Rising, praising the horse’s temperament and competitive spirit. Purton contrasted Car In Rising’s calm nature with Beauty Generation’s aggressive personality, noting the former’s composure leading up to races.
Car In Rising will be aiming for victory in his upcoming races, maintaining his strong track record. Last year, he started from barrier 11 in the Hong Kong Sprint and recently won the HK$5.35 million G2 BOCHK Private Banking Jockey Club Sprint (1200m turf) from barrier 10 by nearly three lengths. Purton mentioned that starting positions could affect the race outcome but expressed optimism about drawing a favorable gate.
This story highlights an exciting phase for Hong Kong horse racing, with Car In Rising poised to challenge historical records and elevate the sport’s competitive edge. For fans, it’s a thrilling reminder of the drama and talent that make horse racing a captivating spectacle, promising memorable moments in the lead-up to the prestigious Hong Kong Sprint.
