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Former SA Apprentice Off The Mark in Hong Kong

Nichola Yuen.
Nichola Yuen. Picture: HKJC

Former South Australia apprentice Nichola Yuen wasted no time announcing herself in Hong Kong, saluting at just her second ride at Sha Tin on Wednesday night to headline a meeting that also delivered a historic milestone for training great Tony Cruz.

Yuen, one of the Hong Kong Jockey Club's newest apprentices, rode a polished tactical race aboard Dennis Yip's PI Legend to land the second section of the Class 4 Ma Tau Wai Handicap (1200m) at Sha Tin's all-dirt meeting, notching her first Hong Kong winner in style.

The 25-year-old, who banked 77 wins overseas – 61 in Australia, 10 in New Zealand and seven in South Africa – as part of her preparation for riding in Hong Kong, allowed PI Legend to find his rhythm from a wide draw before taking control and never surrendering, stopping the clock in 1m 08.68s.

"It's very unbelievable. I'm really grateful to have the opportunity from Mr Yip and to be able to ride comfortably and confidently," Yuen said.

"I can't believe that at my first meeting here in Hong Kong, I've got a win straight away. I've been waiting for this for quite a while, so it's been very emotional."

Having finished fourth on debut earlier in the night, Yuen showed no hesitation three races later despite drawing barrier 12.

"It was a tricky gate and my horse is an on-pace horse, but the horse gave me a very good feeling after the jump," she said.

"He gave me the momentum to slide across, get to the front and control things. We both saved our energy and he gave a very nice kick at the end."

Yip was full of praise after watching Yuen follow instructions to the letter.

"Dropping in grade with Nichola's 10-pound claim, I hoped it would be easier," he said. "She did everything perfectly – she'll be a good jockey in time."

The victory capped a significant night for homegrown talent, with Yuen's win combining with Britney Wong's later success for Tony Cruz to mark the first time since the turn of the century that two Hong Kong-trained female apprentices have ridden winners on the same card.


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