Hong Kong superstar Ka Ying Rising has cruised through a barrier trial at Sha Tin as he builds towards a return to racing on September 7, where he will attempt back-to-back wins in the HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup Handicap (1200m).
The reigning Horse of the Year showed no signs of rust in his hit-out on the dirt track, strolling to the line more than 14 lengths clear of his rivals. It was another effortless performance from the unbeaten champion.
Regular rider Zac Purton was pleased with the trial. “It’s good to have him back out there going through his routine,” Purton said. “He was on the wrong leg on the corner, it’s a bit frustrating how he does that, but apart from that it was all good.”
Ka Ying Rising has compiled a remarkable record of 12 straight wins, including an unblemished eight-run 2024/25 season highlighted by four Group 1 triumphs and two course records at Sha Tin over 1200m.
After enjoying a refreshing spell at Conghua during the Hong Kong off-season, he returned to Sha Tin last week to continue preparations for his biggest test yet – a first overseas assignment in the $20 million The Everest at Randwick on October 18.
Bookmakers have him as short as $1.60 to extend his unbeaten run against Australia’s top sprinters, underlining the aura surrounding Hong Kong’s new sprint king.
Punters can already find markets on Ka Ying Rising’s Everest tilt at Australia’s leading betting sites.
