Lyle Hewitson, the comeback kid of Hong Kong racing after a less than stellar start to his career, has decided not to ride in the World Pool Champions Cup meeting.

The former South African champion had a treble a few meetings back to make the most of his Hong Kong Opportunities after finishing 8th this season with a healthy 40 winners. De Melo, in his first season, was less successful with 21 winners. Hong Kong is a tough place to ride and any winner there is a huge deal. De Melo amassed just over HKD 39m (R90m) in stakes with Hewitson on just over HKD 73m (R168m).

De Melo will take a large book of rides including in the main event mainly for Justin Snaith on Champions Cup Day. 

The Champions Cup is shaping up nicely as well with Dave The King to renew rivalry with Cousin Casey from the Gold Challenge.

Kannemeyer has signalled an intent not to run Green With Envy again this season.