Zac Purton became the first jockey to ride 2,000 winners in Hong Kong on May 31, 2026, at Sha Tin aboard Rising World, marking a landmark achievement in his career [1, 2]. The milestone came in his 11,229th ride in the city, demonstrating his consistency and skill over nearly two decades of competition [1, 2].
Purton extended his record to 2,001 wins just three races later by riding Oldtown on the same day [1, 2]. Purton, 43, hails from Lismore, New South Wales, and first won in Hong Kong in September 2007 when he rode Elfhelm to victory at Happy Valley [1, 2].
He is an eight-time Hong Kong champion jockey and has won nearly all the major races in the city except the Group 1 Hong Kong Classic Mile [1, 2]. Purton previously became the jockey with the most Hong Kong wins on January 22, 2025, surpassing the previous record with 1,814 winners [1, 2].
Reflecting on the milestone, Purton said, "At least I’m not going to have to go home tonight and listen to Cash say ‘why didn’t you have a winner today, Daddy?’ so we’ve had the winner and he’s got the trophy – so it’s job done" [1]. He also called the achievement "wonderful," acknowledging the support he has received from owners, trainers, and the Hong Kong racing community: "I’ve been very fortunate and, of course, I couldn’t do anything without the support that I get from the owners, trainers, and Hong Kong’s been such a great place for me" [2].
Purton’s record 2,001 wins came after nearly 19 years of competing at Hong Kong racecourses. He reached the previous major milestone of 1,814 wins 16 months before the 2,000 mark [1, 2]. His rapid ascent cements his status as one of the top jockeys in Hong Kong history.
The Hong Kong racing season continues, with Purton expected to add to his record tally in upcoming races at Sha Tin and Happy Valley [1, 2].