Horse racing news: Celebrated jockey Hugh Bowman to join Karis Teetan at Ascot’s Shergar Cup
Hugh Bowman has confirmed he will participate in the Shergar Cup at Ascot on 9 August when fellow Hong Kong–based rider Karis Teetan captains the Rest of the World team against outfits representing Great Britain & Ireland, Asia, and Europe in the invitational series.
For his part, Bowman is looking forward to the meet, saying: “I was invited to ride in that [Shergar Cup], so plans are being made around that so that will keep me honest in the middle [of the Hong Kong off-season].”
Australian secures personal-best tally
Preparing to join Teetan at Ascot next month, Bowman slotted a treble at Happy Valley on Wednesday night, 9 July, to soar past 70 winners for the season and reach a Hong Kong personal-best.
The Australian, 44, netted a race-to-race double to open the card with Notthesillyone for Mark Newnham and Douglas Whyte’s Shinkansen – both geldings triumphed by a short head – to eclipse the 69 victories he posted last season, when he finished second to Zac Purton in the jockeys’ championship.
Bowman then partnered Jumbo Legend to a spectacular victory in the Class 2 Begonia Handicap for Caspar Fownes to cap an outstanding evening.
With only two race meetings left this season, Bowman (71) sits second behind Purton (132), well clear of third-placed Andrea Atzeni (55).
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Bowman still seeking improvement
“It helped not being injured,” Bowman reflected upon reaching the 70-win mark.
“I spent a lot of time injured and being suspended last season, so time in the saddle might be the key, but I’ve had a good season, a good support base and I think I’ve had a good consistent year.
“I feel like I can do better but I’m satisfied with how we’ve gone this season, and I would like to build on it next year.”
Hong Kong racing will continue on Sunday 13 July at Sha Tin with the final twilight meeting of the 2024/25 season.
Follow @HongKong_Racing for all the latest news from the world-class racing scene in Hong Kong and watch Sunday’s races live on Sky Sports/At The Races.
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