What’s it like to ride the world’s best sprinter? We find out as we chat with Zac Purton who just recently recorded yet another milestone in Hong Kong – a tenth consecutive season of riding 100 winners.
Do you come from a horse/racing family?
No – no one was in racing before me, and no one has followed me in.
Did you always want to be a jockey?
I always loved sport and horses so it was an easy decision to make when the time was right.
What is your first racing memory?
Vintage Crop winning the Melbourne Cup.
Who is your favourite horse and why?
Ka Ying Rising. He’s the best horse I’ve sat on.
What sort of feel does Ka Ying Rising give you compared to other horses?
He seems to float across the ground like he’s on air. It’s hard to explain but it’s like he doesn’t touch the ground.
Who is the best horse you have seen?
Hard question to answer. I’ve seen so many incredible horses.
Your favourite racing moment?
I’ve got a few. Winning my first Hong Kong premiership. Winning the Derby on Massive Sovereign, the International Mile on Beauty Generation. Winning in Japan on Aerovelocity. Winning the Everest on Ka Ying Rising.
Is there a ride you wish you could do again?
Many. All the defeats hurt.
Which horse currently racing would you love to be riding?
Autumn Glow.
Which horse from the past would you love to have ridden?
Almond Eye.
What do you love most about riding in Hong Kong?
The competition.
Do you think horses know they have won?
Yes.
If you time travel into a past racing moment what would it be?
Aerovelocity winning in Japan
Who do you like most about racing?
It brings people from different walks of life together.
What is one change/improvement you’d love to see in racing?
Track work to start at a reasonable hour.
What is your favourite pastime outside of racing?
Golf.
Best concert you’ve seen?
Robbie Williams.
Favourite food?
I don’t crave anything.
Favourite racecourses?
Sha Tin and Randwick.
