PURTON LOOKING TO SET ANOTHER RECORD IN HONG KONG AS HE STRIVES FOR A FOURTH IJC SUCCESS

By Tim Clayton | Wednesday, December 10, 2025

Zac Purton is no stranger to standing on the winner’s podium at the LONGINES International Jockey Challenge.

Purton has previously won the prestigious IJC three times in 2017, 2020 and again in 2021, but he has not been able to add to that run of success since then. However, in 2025 it looks like his fortunes have changed.

Purton has enjoyed a very successful 2025, breaking the Hong Kong record for most wins in a season, securing his eighth Hong Kong Jockey’s Championship in June this year … as well as being inducted into the Australian Racing Hall of Fame.

Purton will face his toughest test in the IJC as this year’s line-up is arguably the best ever!

I spoke with Zac at the IJC press conference, about his chances on Wednesday night.

“It is great to have everyone in town. It is probably the strongest lineup of jockeys that I think we have had in the series, so it is not going to be easy for anyone,” said Purton.

“Looking at the fields, I think there's great depth through the runners in the races. I think many of the riders have got a good, solid chance.”

Purton conceded that Happy Valley is a fickle place to get success let alone against some amazing talent.

“It's just going to come down to who gets the right run on the day,” continued Purton. “It really announces our special week of racing … International races week here in Hong Kong at Sha Tin with the IJC at Happy Valley.

“It's a great night. Everyone can feel the vibe. It's very exciting. It's good to be part of it again”

Will Purton continue his momentum and claim a record fourth IJC crown?

If so, he will rewrite the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s record books once again as the only rider to have ever claimed the that landmark LONGINES IJC title victory.

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