Zac Purton: From Hong Kong dominance to Melbourne Cup dreams

This victory places him alongside racing legends Basil Marcus and Gary Moore, solidifying his status as one of Hong Kong’s most dominant riders ever.

Hong Kong hero 

• 7-time champion: Purton now holds seven Hong Kong Champion Jockey titles, a testament to his exceptional skill and consistency. 

• 1700+ wins: He has ridden over 1700 winners in Hong Kong, placing him among the region's most successful jockeys. 

• Group 1 dominance: Purton has won numerous prestigious Group 1 races in Hong Kong, including the Hong Kong Derby, Hong Kong Sprint, and Champions Mile. 

Reflecting on his recent championship win, Purton said, “It’s a great result. And I was really pleased with the way the season went.” He also acknowledges the challenges of maintaining his position at the top. “It's a very competitive environment here. It’s extremely hard just to ride a single winner.” 

Melbourne Cup aspirations 

Despite his unparalleled success in Hong Kong, Purton still yearns for victory in one race – the Lexus Melbourne Cup.

“The Melbourne Cup is the race that I’d like to win,” he shared. “It would put the cherry on top of the cake and complete my dream.”

Purton is no stranger to Melbourne Cup challenges, finishing fourth aboard Finche in 2018, grabbing a commendable third place on Max Dynamite in 2017, and most recently riding Absurde to seventh place in 2023. These experiences have only fuelled his desire to conquer the iconic race. As he puts it, “with the prizemoney on offer in Australia it’s very hard not to want to be involved in it.” 

He’s also noticed the increasing globalisation of the sport. “The world’s become such a small place, it’s easy to travel horses these days …” This trend allows jockeys like himself to compete in major races across the globe, including flying “in and out to Australia to ride for a weekend.” 

This year, Purton returns to Flemington with a renewed determination. He’s secured the ride on Land Legend, trained by Chris Waller, a proven stayer who recently triumphed in the Group 1 Metropolitan at Randwick and secured his spot by winning The Lexus Bart Cummings. 

Inspired by legends 

Purton has spoken about his admiration for Lexus Melbourne Cup winning jockeys like his father-in-law, Jimmy Cassidy, and Glen Boss, especially Boss’s masterful rides on Makybe Diva. “Phenomenal rides they were,” Purton acknowledged, highlighting the legendary figures who inspire him. 

With his sights set on Melbourne Cup glory, Purton is determined to surpass his previous best finishes. He maintains a hunger for success and a drive to constantly improve. “I enjoy the competition. I enjoy the challenge of turning up every day and trying to improve and get better. And I’m still learning.” 

Will this be the year he finally clinches his ultimate dream and etches his name alongside the legends who inspire him in Melbourne Cup history?