World-Class Sprinter Ka Ying Rising Sets New Track Record At Sha Tin

Mike Davey/HKJC

Sha Tin, Hong Kong - Ka Ying Rising broke the 1,200m (6 furlongs)  track record at Sha Tin Racecourse with a time of 1:07.43 on Saturday in the Group 2 BOCHK Private Banking Jockey Club Sprint, reports The Hong Kong Jockey Club.

What made the feat even more impressive was Ka Ying Rising was eased about 100m out by jockey Zac Purton, who blew kisses to the camera as he crossed the finish line. 

“I knew it was a track record, so I thought I would seal it with a kiss,” said Purton, “It’s getting scary how good he’s becoming and how easily he’s doing it. It’s a nice top-up run for the big one next month.”

Ka Ying Rising shot out of the gate but was taken back by Purton, settling into a stalking position behind the two pace setters, Victor The Winner and Copartner Prance. As they straightened out in the stretch, a sudden burst of speed propelled Ka Ying Rising to the lead, where he won comfortably. 

Watch replay here

“It’s a course record held by a superstar (Sacred Kingdom). You’ve got to be pretty good to get the course record at Sha Tin when you see all these wonderful, promising horses racing on fast ground. To have your horse in the book is a bit of a thrill.” said trainer David Hayes, “All he really has to do now is hold his form and I can’t see any reason he won’t. We’ve got 21 more sleeps before the big Group One in three weeks, so we’re really looking forward to it,” 

The Group 1 race that Hayes is referring to is the Hong Kong Sprint, also run at Sha Tin over 1,200m. Ka Ying Rising could also have potential starts in The Classic Mile and The Everest in Sydney next year.

Read more at The Hong Kong Jockey Club