"Hope I am winning on a horse next week," Leung and Orman take season's first silverware on foot

Derek Leung Ka-chun knew he was in with a big chance of winning the annual Jockey Sprint at the owners carnival at Sha Tin on Saturday when he was drafted to run with James Orman in the tag-team event. 

“I was confident – I’ve finished second and third before – and when I was told I was teaming up with James I thought we could win – he looks pretty fast – he has long legs,” Leung said. 

Sure enough, the duo took out the season’s first silverware – Leung providing a solid start through the first half of the 200 meter sprint, before passing the giant carrot ‘baton’ to the big-striding Orman, who finished fast for a narrow victory. 

“I was faster than I thought I was,” Orman said. “I can’t remember the last time I ran so I didn’t know what to expect. It’s not to get a win and a trophy, hopefully I am getting one on a horse next week at the season opener.” 

Leung and Orman were presented with trophies and a $5,000 cheque after beating second-placed team Ellis Wong Chi-wang and Brenton Avdulla and third placegetters Hugh Bowman and Jerry Chau Chun-lok. 

Inclement weather early in the day didn’t deter a strong turnout at Sha Tin, the crowd enjoying a range of activities, food stalls and turf barrier trials that featured some of Hong Kong’s best horses. 

The world’s highest rated sprinter Ka Ying Rising was center of attention in the first turf trial as he warmed-up for his return at Sunday’s season opening meeting. 

Gates open at 11am on Sunday for a day that includes a performance from MC Cheung in the parade ring at 11.40am.