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  • Magic Man Cruises to Final HK Meeting

    Monday, 5th July 2021

    The result is no longer in doubt, all that matters is the margin. Joao ‘Magic Man’ Moreira has turned the clock back to draw level with nemesis Zac Purton in Hong Kong, and he’s done it with ease. Heading into the final HKJC meeting on Wednesday-week at Happy Valley, Moreira’s winning treble on Sunday at Sha Tin (taking him beyond 150 seasonal victories) put him a proverbial street in front for the coveted riding crown, one which has rarely looked in doubt from early in the season. According to hkjc.com, Moreira said, “It’s a very meaningful win for me, especially because I have been on the bench for three seasons in a row now and I had to find ways to ignite the flame within myself.” This term, Moreira has amassed over HK$210 million in earnings for his mounts, including a pair of Group 1s aboard Hot King Prawn in the 2021 Centenary Sprint Cup (1200m) and the 2021 Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (1400m) atop Waikuku. He also joined an exclusive club as just the third rider in the history of Hong Kong racing to have ridden 1,000 winners in the jurisdiction – alongside only Douglas Whyte (13 consecutive titles) and Zac Purton. Moreira also snared Hong Kong’s most prestigious contest for the second time this term, claiming 2021 BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) aboard Sky Darci, who under a superb ride from the 37-year-old overcame stamina doubts to claim the HK$24 million ‘blue-riband’. Admittedly burnt out and eager for a break, Moreira has already begun planning for next season as he embarks on a fifth title in Hong Kong after drawing level with Purton to boast four titles each.

    Joao Moreira

    Brazilian ace Joao Moreira has claimed his fourth title (pic: hkjc.com)