Andrea Atzeni Seeks to Build on Early-Season Success at Happy Valley
SCMP · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Andrea Atzeni has made a solid start to the 2026-27 Hong Kong racing season, riding seven winners from 84 mounts through early October. The Sardinian jockey, who posted a career-best 63 wins last term, is seeking to continue that momentum at Happy Valley on Wednesday night with several live chances. Atzeni has attracted strong support from trainers and is enjoying a busy schedule that mirrors the workload of the territory's champion jockey Zac Purton. With rides on Wukong Jewellery, Californiatotality and Red Brick Warrior, the former British-based rider is well-placed to add to his early-season tally.
Key Points
- Atzeni has ridden seven winners from 84 rides so far this season, the same number of mounts as champion jockey Zac Purton
- He is targeting to consolidate on last season's career-best tally of 63 winners and is grateful for the support he has received
- At Wednesday night's Happy Valley meeting, Atzeni has rides on Wukong Jewellery, Californiatotality and Red Brick Warrior
- The Sardinian expressed satisfaction with his workload, saying the rides are there and that being busy is how he likes to operate
- Atzeni acknowledged he has missed a few opportunities, noting that competitive racing in Hong Kong presents constant challenges
Why It Matters
Atzeni's early-season form reflects the competitive nature of Hong Kong racing, where established champions like Purton face constant challenges from ambitious international riders. His ability to match Purton's mount count so early in the season suggests the depth of talent in the jockeys' room and sets up an intriguing narrative heading into the winter racing programme at Happy Valley.
Atzeni's early-season form reflects the competitive nature of Hong Kong racing, where established champions like Purton face constant challenges from ambitious international riders. His ability to match Purton's mount count so early in the season suggests the depth of talent in the jockeys' room and sets up an intriguing narrative heading into the winter racing programme at Happy Valley.