Derek Leung Ka-chun became the fourth home-grown jockey to reach 500 winners after a last-gasp win on Regal Gem in the Class Three Harbour View Handicap (1,200m) at Happy Valley on Wednesday night.
The 37-year-old, who has claimed Group One victories on Beauty Generation and Victor The Winner, joined Vincent Ho Chak-yiu, Matthew Chadwick and Tony Cruz after an aptly stellar ride on Regal Gem.
Settled ahead of midfield, the three-year-old was forced to swing very wide into the straight, but was galvanised by Leung to lead 50m out and fend off a late challenge by Never Too Soon by a short head.
“First, thank you to the Hong Kong Jockey Club and Apprentice School for looking after me and helping me with everything,” said Leung. “I need to thank all the owners and trainers for their support of me.
“It’s great to get 500 winners and be the fourth local jockey [to achieve that]. I hope to keep it up and keep riding winners.
