Horse racing news: Star Hong Kong jockey Angus Chung set for first UK ride at Windsor Racecourse

Hong Kong rider Angus Chung will take his first ride in the UK this evening aboard the Craig Benton–trained Dreamcrafter at Windsor Racecourse (7:35pm).

He arrived in the country recently and will be based with Ralph Beckett during his three-week stay.

Chung’s inspirational journey

In an interview at Beckett’s Kimpton Down yard, Chung explained his decision to become a jockey: “Before I was riding, I was a semi-professional football player in Hong Kong. My dream was to be a professional footballer, but I think I was a bit small.

“When I was 21, I saw the Hong Kong Jockey Club program for jockeys. I was pretty late [in terms of age] but the jockey club gave me lots of opportunities to help me learn how to be a jockey.

“In seven years, I’ve made such a big improvement, both physically and mentally. I trained hard to ride horses for two years during trackwork and then I went to Australia for three years.”

Last year, Chung passed the 70-winner mark in Hong Kong, meaning he graduated to the senior riding ranks and opened up the door to competing internationally.

“Last year, when I finished the season, I wanted to come to the UK to ride, but I still had the P-licence in Hong Kong so I couldn’t travel everywhere in the world. This year, I’ve got a full licence so I can travel everywhere,” he clarified.

Asked about the racecourse he would most like to ride at, the star jockey was clear: “I’d say Ascot. There’re a lot of big races there and good jockeys and trainers. If I can ride there, that would be perfect!”

READ MORE: Horse racing news: Eight World Pool fixtures in eight days upcoming from the UK, South Africa and Germany

UK jockey idolised

Chung is hoping to learn plenty about a different style of racing while in the UK and has already caught up with a weighing room idol.

“I always wanted to travel and see the world. The UK was my first option because a lot of good jockeys are from the UK. I want to see a bit more about the different racing styles around the world,” the 28-year-old admitted.

“In the UK, I really like William Buick. He came to Hong Kong and sat opposite me in the jockeys’ room and we chatted a little bit. I messaged him when I came here and chatted to him on Saturday [at Newbury].

“He’s an excellent rider, with good hands and good style. I really respect him – I think he’s my idol.”

Despite a relatively late start, Chung has tasted success in a short time in Hong Kong.

In the 2023/24 season, he won the Tony Cruz Award, awarded to Hong Kong’s leading homegrown jockey, following his return from Australia.

Then, last campaign, Chung rode 20 winners to take his tally in Hong Kong to 97 wins.

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