Hollie chooses Hong Kong over Japan, short term stint stats at Happy Valley on Wednesday

Hollie Doyle has made the “difficult” decision to choose Hong Kong over Japan this winter and the British jockey is raring to go as her latest stint in the city gets underway at Happy Valley tonight.

Doyle, who spent the past three winters riding in Japan, told The Standard she is hoping her decision to ride here for seven weeks can pay dividends immediately thanks to a relatively strong book of rides at the city track.

“I do love Japan, but we can’t be in two places at once and this opportunity came up at a great time,” Doyle said. “I have seven rides with support from a range of trainers, which is nice. Hopefully I can have some good results on the first evening because I love Happy Valley and I’ve had experience there before.”

Of those rides, the last looks most promising, with the Ricky Yiu Poon-fai-trained Victory Sky holding strong claims in the closing Class 3 contest over 1,650 meters.

The five-year-old gelding ran with plenty of credit when third over 1,200m last time out and steps up to the extended mile for the first time. 

“He’ll probably be my best ride of the evening,” Doyle said. “He’s up to the 1,650 meters, which could bring about a bit more improvement, and we have a nice draw in barrier three. Let’s hope I can get his head in front.”

While her compatriots Richard Kingscote and David Probert are yet to record a win this season from 81 and 70 rides, respectively, Doyle hopes her previous experience at the International Jockeys’ Championship and exposure to Hong Kong racing can hold her in good stead.

“I’ve had a good taste of Hong Kong racing in the past,” she added. “I’m lucky to have traveled the world and got used to adapting to the different jurisdictions, but obviously it’s always very different here in Hong Kong. It’s tactical, it’s tight and sharp.”

While her husband Tom Marquand will be busy riding in Japan on a seven-week contract, Doyle is determined to make the most of her time here.

“Look, of course I want to ride as many winners as I can. But, it’s so competitive over here, so I’m grateful for any winners I can have,” Doyle said.