Recovered Jockey Bundela Targets 40 Wins in Hong Kong Season Opener
SingTao · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago4 MIN
Summary
Australian jockey Keagan Bundela has completed his recovery from a serious June fall and returned to full training last week, setting his sights on a 40-win season in the upcoming Hong Kong racing term. The accomplished rider, who underwent surgery after falling from Hayate Fumpei in June, spent his rehabilitation period in England maintaining fitness through physical therapy. With the new season opening at Sha Tin on Sunday, Bundela is confirmed to ride the veteran Good Buddy in the Group 3 Chief Executive's Cup, facing a formidable field that includes the champion跑馬地英雄.
Key Points
- Bundela suffered his injury in June when he fell from Hayate Fumpei, forcing an early end to his season with 34 wins, just five short of his career best
- After surgery and two months of recovery in England, he resumed training last week and reports feeling completely recovered with no lingering pain
- His target for the new season mirrors his previous goals: 40 wins, which would establish a new personal record
- Last season highlights included winning the Group 2 Premier Bowl aboard Good Buddy and the Hong Kong Classic Cup with Purple Bauhinia Victory
- On Sunday's season opener, Bundela will partner Good Buddy in the Chief Executive's Cup, where they will face the superstar horse Ka Ying Rising
Why It Matters
Bundela's successful comeback demonstrates the resilience required in professional horse racing, where falls remain an occupational hazard despite improved safety measures. His participation in Sunday's feature race provides an early indicator of his competitive form, while his goal of 40 wins could reshape the upper echelon of Hong Kong's jockey standings this season .
Bundela's successful comeback demonstrates the resilience required in professional horse racing, where falls remain an occupational hazard despite improved safety measures. His participation in Sunday's feature race provides an early indicator of his competitive form, while his goal of 40 wins could reshape the upper echelon of Hong Kong's jockey standings this season .