Ka Ying Rising Extends Historic Streak with Dazzling Hong Kong Sprint Triumph

Ka Ying Rising: The Unstoppable Force of Global Sprinting

In the world of horse racing, few names have sparked as much awe and admiration as Ka Ying Rising. On a crisp December afternoon at Hong Kong’s Sha Tin Racecourse, the five-year-old gelding delivered a performance that left little doubt: he is, by any measure, the world’s best sprinter. With a powerful surge down the stretch, Ka Ying Rising claimed his 16th consecutive victory—matching a streak that only a handful of Hong Kong legends have ever achieved.

A Commanding Win at Sha Tin

Entering the Hong Kong Sprint as a 1-20 favorite, expectations for Ka Ying Rising were sky-high. But it wasn’t just about winning; it was about how he won. Guided by seasoned jockey Zac Purton, the gelding broke swiftly from the gates and immediately seized the lead. The pair maintained a relentless pace, and as the field rounded the final turn, Purton stole a glance at the big screen—astonished to find himself so far ahead.

“That’s what everyone wanted,” Purton reflected, his voice tinged with relief and pride. “Obviously after last year, it was a bit flat, but this year I think he showed everyone what he can do.” The gap at the finish—three and three-quarters of a length—was a testament to Ka Ying Rising’s dominance, and a moment that electrified the crowd at Sha Tin.

Chasing History: Equaling a Legendary Streak

With this victory, Ka Ying Rising not only secured back-to-back wins in one of the sport’s richest sprints (with a purse of £2.8 million), but also matched the 16-win streak of another Hong Kong icon, Golden Sixty. Only one triumph now separates him from Silent Witness’s historic record. For trainer David Hayes, the moment was as much about relief as celebration: “I was just relieved he didn’t let our expectations down, and the public’s expectations. He was just superb today.”

Hayes described the win as “as spectacular a win as he’s done,” noting that Ka Ying Rising ran significantly faster than the day’s other races. The field wasn’t short on international class either—Royal Ascot form, top Japanese sprinters, Dubai and Breeders’ Cup contenders—all made to look ordinary by the Hong Kong star.

From New Zealand Roots to Global Stardom

Ka Ying Rising’s journey began far from the bright lights of Sha Tin, on the rolling fields of New Zealand’s North Island. There, breeder and trainer Fraser Auret remembers the gelding as the first foal of broodmare Missy Moo—a mare he had trained to five victories before taking her on as a broodmare. “Nobody could have predicted the heights Ka Ying Rising would scale,” Auret told Horse Racing Nation. “We pride ourselves in selling untapped young horses. We’ve loved every minute of the entire journey.”

Auret, who operates out of the old Marton Racecourse near Palmerston North, recalls Missy Moo as talented but plagued by a persistent leg issue. That same injury ultimately led to her being euthanized after producing just two foals. “We always do the right thing by the horse. The arthritis in her back leg meant the more pregnant she got, the more sore she was getting. We simply did the right thing by the horse, which was our number one priority.”

While Auret could have opted to race Ka Ying Rising himself, he stands by his decision to sell. “Our business only survives on selling good horses,” he explains. “When you pass the baton on to another trainer, it’s out of your hands. I guess my feeling is one of immense pride.” Today, Auret owns seven broodmares, three of which are in foal to Shamexpress, the sire of Ka Ying Rising—a hopeful sign that more champions may be in the making.

Looking Ahead: The International Stage

Ka Ying Rising’s exploits have not been confined to Hong Kong. Last year, he traveled to Australia and won the Everest—one of the world’s most lucrative and competitive sprint races. Although trainer David Hayes downplayed the possibility of an appearance at Royal Ascot, calling it “hopeless,” the gelding’s overseas triumphs have only enhanced his reputation as a truly global champion.

With his 16th win, Ka Ying Rising stands on the brink of history. Hayes is hopeful: “We’re hoping he’s got another 20 races in him.” The Hong Kong public, and fans around the world, will be watching closely as he chases the all-time record.

A Legacy Beyond the Track

Ka Ying Rising’s story is about more than just numbers on a scoreboard. It’s about the quiet pride of a New Zealand breeder, the faith of a Hong Kong trainer, and the electric partnership with a world-class jockey. It’s about a horse who, race after race, proves that greatness isn’t just about speed—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and the ability to rise to the occasion, no matter how high the stakes.

As the dust settles at Sha Tin, one can’t help but wonder: How far can Ka Ying Rising go? With every stride, he carves his name deeper into the annals of racing history, inspiring breeders, trainers, and fans on both sides of the globe.

Ka Ying Rising’s rise is a testament to the global nature of modern racing—where a New Zealand-bred colt can become a Hong Kong legend, and where every win is the product of teamwork, vision, and a touch of the extraordinary. As he stands one victory away from history, the world will be watching, and so will those who helped him get here—from a small stable in Palmerston North to the grandstand at Sha Tin.