Ka Ying Rising wins NZ-bred Star Performer Award(May to June 2024)

In recognition of the support of Hong Kong horse owners for New Zealand-bred horses and the outstanding performances of New Zealand-bred horses in Hong Kong, NZB has established the "NZ-bred Star Performer Award" sponsored by New Zealand Bloodstock (NZB). The aim of this award is to encourage award-winning horse owners and trainers to continue purchasing excellent horses from New Zealand.

The latest winner of the "NZ-bred Star Performer Award" (May to June 2024) went to the David Hayes-trained Ka Ying Rising. 

The Shamexpress four-year-old started his racing career in Hong Kong in 2023/2024 racing season. He finished his rookie season with five wins and two seconds from just seven starts to be acclaimed Champion Griffin. He also won the Most Improved Horse at the Champion Awards. The gelding capped his campaign with victory in the G3 Sha Tin Vase handicap (1200m), getting the better of a group of older rivals including Flying Ace.

Ka Ying Rising continued to make impact in the 2024/2025 racing season. He defied history and testing track conditions with a record-breaking success in the HK$3.72 million Class 1 HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup Handicap (1200m) at Sha Tin on September 8, 2024.

The award presentation took place on September 19, 2024, at the New Zealand Consulate General in Hong Kong. Mr. Peter Lund, the New Zealand Consul-General in Hong Kong, and Mr. Pete Frost, Trade Commissioner - Southern China at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, presented the Award to Mr. See Ching Chuen & Mr. Ip Chi Ming, representative of Ka Ying Syndicate, owner of Ka Ying Rising. Also, Mr. Mike Kneebone, Director of Business Development of NZB, presented jackets printed with the name of Ka Ying Rising to the winning connections.

Ka Ying Rising has amassed six wins and two seconds from eight starts in Hong Kong, winning more than HKD 10 million in prize money for his connections.