GALAXY PATCH ON HIS WAY TO BETTER THINGS

By Hong Kong Jockey Club (Maddy Playle) | Friday, December 12, 2025

McDonald banking on Galaxy Patch repeat in LONGINES Hong Kong Mile

The stars aligned for James McDonald when he partnered Galaxy Patch for the first time in the G2 BOCHK Private Wealth Jockey Club Mile (1600m) last month, and the rider is hoping a similar scenario can play out in the G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Mile (1600m) on Sunday.

The duo has a perfect record going into the HK$36 million contest after the six-year-old put in a powerful finish up the inside rail to defeat Sunlight Power, Happy Together and My Wish last time. All three runners reoppose at the weekend to form a strong local challenge.

It was Galaxy Patch's first victory since the G2 Sha Tin Trophy Handicap (1600m) in October, 2024, but he has always threatened to develop into a top-level performer and McDonald’s assistance could prove the key.

“I was very impressed with him and his trial afterwards was even more impressive,” the rider said in a press conference at Sha Tin Racecourse. “I thought he was brilliant coming out of that race.

“We’ve always known he’s a very good horse, he just hasn’t had the rub of the green at times due to his racing style, but he’s as good a horse as any of them and he just needs luck to go his way.

“It’s a big field and he’s going to need pace on because he gets back, but he’s definitely capable of running over the top of them. He’s up to this level and he gives you a good feel.”

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