Racing: Hong Kong jockey outrides critics

Photo / iStock

Hong Kong's champion jockey Joao Moreira has brushed off criticism of his recent Sydney riding record in emphatic fashion, steering McCreery to a Group Three win at Rosehill.

Moreira, who has ridden major winners around the world, said when he rode in Sydney in the autumn, the tracks were unsuitable for the horses he was on.

"If horses can't perform on wet tracks they can't win," Moreira said.

"I love Australia and I'm happy to be back."

Moreira rode Chris Waller-trained McCreery in the Kingston Town Stakes (2000m) at 54kg.

He had McCreery in a good position early and pounced when the field straightened up for the run home. McCreery surged to the front and had too much in reserve, holding off Sir John Hawkwood and favourite Allergic.