Zac Purton has edged closer to a monumental milestone in Hong Kong racing, sitting just three wins shy of Douglas Whyte's all-time record of 1,813 victories. The seven-time champion jockey added two more wins to his tally at Happy Valley on Wednesday night, guiding Bottomuptogether and Kasa Papa to victory. This brings Purton’s career haul in Hong Kong to 1,810 wins, setting the stage for a potential record-breaking moment on Sunday (19 January) at Sha Tin, where he partners Ka Ying Rising in the prestigious HK$13 million G1 Centenary Sprint Cup (1200m).

Purton’s consistency shone throughout the evening as he registered a second, two thirds, and a fifth from seven rides. His feature win came aboard Frankie Lor-trained Bottomuptogether in the Class 2 Jackson Handicap (1000m). Despite early pressure, the gelding delivered an impressive performance, clocking 56.43 seconds to secure the win and earn a PPG Bonus of HK$1 million. Lor praised Purton’s ride, describing him as "the champion, always busy and the first choice." Purton’s earlier victory with Tony Cruz-trained Kasa Papa in the Class 5 Ice House Handicap (1800m) also showcased his skill, as the seven-year-old finally broke through after five minor placings.

The evening also featured a stellar performance by Hugh Bowman, who secured a treble with victories on Wings Of War, Sky Jewellery, and Charity Gain, boosting his recent form at Happy Valley. Meanwhile, 12-time champion trainer John Size continued his mid-season surge with a double, highlighted by Sky Jewellery’s debut win. Hong Kong racing now shifts focus to Sha Tin on Sunday, where Purton has the chance to etch his name further into history books during a blockbuster meeting featuring two G1 events.