Michael Cox One thousand, eight hundred and twelve wins down ... two to go. Jockey Zac Purton heads to Happy Valley tonight on the brink of history. The Australian is just one victory behind Douglas Whyte's all-time record of 1,813 wins in Hong Kong and he has a high chance of breaking the mark tonight. Purton's name will top a list of champion riders who have competed here during the professional era. "It's quite humbling to see the names on that list and it will be a real honor to move into first place," Purton told The Standard. "It's an exciting moment but at the same time, I just focus on doing my best to win each race." Perhaps lost in the excitement of Purton's push toward history is his outstanding record this season: he is surging to an eighth championship, his fourth straight, and he has 72 wins from 40 race meetings, more than double that of second-placed Hugh Bowman (33 wins). The Jockey Club installed a bell that Purton rings every time he has ridden a winner during the countdown to the record and he has been joined by his children Roxy and Cash to help him celebrate on occasion. "I've been enjoying ringing the bell and I'll only get to do it two more times," Purton said. "It's been a lot of fun, especially with the kids there." Purton's only regret is that he could not break the record at Sha Tin last Sunday so that his children could be in attendance. People under 18 can attend the races at Sha Tin with special permission but not at Happy Valley. It might take until late in the meeting for Purton to break the record. He does not have a ride in the first two races but he has a series of strong chances through the middle part of the card. Purton's rides from race three to seven are first or second favorite in their respective events. Sight Happy could be the horse Purton breaks the record on after he drew barrier two in Race 5, the Kowloon Park Handicap. "His runs have been very good recently, he comes back to 1,200 meters and if we can get ourselves into a reasonable spot in the race he has a good chance." Purton said. michael.cox@singtaonewscorp.com
