South African rider Lyle Hewitson dazzled Sha Tin on Monday with a remarkable treble, while Australian star Zac Purton clinched his seventh Hong Kong jockeys’ championship, with four meetings still to go. 

Hewitson began his successful day by winning two consecutive races for trainer Chris So Wai-yin. He then capped off his achievements with a victory on Ching in the Class Three Better Future Handicap (1,600m). He warmed up the Hong Kong World Pool punters for the weekends Acton at Greyville for the Durban July. A reminder to all of the talent that exists in South Africa. 

Despite some challenges throughout the 2023-24 season, the 26-year-old Hewitson expressed his joy at securing his first three-timer since Boxing Day. He spoke to SAHorseracing.COM earlier today. 

"It was a great day. I went into the meeting with what I thought was a competitive book of rides that I looked forward to, without anything being outstanding—but things unfolded beautifully and it was great to get the treble. Great day especially before the end of our season," Hewitson said.

"The season in general I can say has been a lot more competitive with more jockeys getting support and doing well, so the 40 mark for winners I am pleased with but naturally never satisfied! There have been some bumps in the road but here we are and pushing forward. I’m grateful mostly for the support from numerous different trainers this season which bodes well for the future."

Attention from a World Pool perspective turns to Greyville on Saturday for the two big Grade 1 races, the Durban July and the Garden Province Stakes. 

Image Hong Kong Racing