Barzalona Adds to French Success in Valley's IJC

Mickael Barzalona delivered a commanding display in the LONGINES International Jockeys Championship (IJC), securing victories in the first and final legs of the four-race series to become only the third French rider to claim the title, following Christophe Lemaire (2009) and Olivier Peslier (1998 & 2006). Barzalona opened his account in thrilling fashion, guiding top-weight Sergeant Pepper to a narrow victory in the 1st Leg over 1000m, snatching the win from William Buick in the final stride for the maximum 12 points. Half an hour later, he appeared poised to cement his dominance aboard Forever Glorious in the 2nd Leg over 1650m, charging to the front and setting himself up as the firm favorite for the HK$1 million prize fund. However, James McDonald, soon to be crowned LONGINES World's Best Jockey for a second time on Friday (6 December), showcased his class in the 3rd Leg. Partnering Douglas Whyte-trained Prince Alex, McDonald secured a thrilling head victory, with Colin Keane finishing strongly to claim third aboard Sure Joyful. Hollie Doyle then took the spotlight in the 3rd Leg as Soleil Fighter edged out the competition in another close finish. Heading into the final leg, four jockeys, including Buick and Karis Teetan, remained in contention to match Barzalona's 18-point total. Yet, Barzalona decisively sealed the championship, steering Pierre Ng-trained Aurora Lady to a dominant win in the 4th Leg over 1200m, drawing cheers from the Happy Valley crowd. Although Barzalona has yet to win any of the four LONGINES Hong Kong International Races, he heads to Sha Tin on Sunday (8 December) with confidence, ready to partner Marquisat in the HK$24 million G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Vase (2400m). Reflecting on his triumph, he remarked, "It's a hyper-competitive jockeys challenge and when you see the major names up there on the roll of honour, I'm delighted to have mine alongside." McDonald and Doyle shared second place overall with 12 points each, while Keane and Vincent Ho were the only other jockeys to score twice across the series.