‘A Once-in-a-Lifetime Champion’: James McDonald Reflects on Romantic Warrior’s Remarkable Performance

Champion jockey James McDonald has maintained his impressive streak, securing two additional Group 1 victories at Sha Tin on Sunday night (AEDT).

The 32-year-old recently emerged from a remarkable Melbourne Cup Carnival, where he shattered his own record for the most wins, and is now continuing to claim victories overseas.

McDonald was set to ride the well-fancied Romantic Warrior in the Hong Kong Cup and showcased his skills as the $1.28 favourite triumphed with flair.

The six-year-old, a prior winner of last year’s Cox Plate, aimed for a third win in the 2000m race and charged home with McDonald in the saddle.

Romantic Warrior’s win ignited a tremendous response from the audience at Sha Tin, reinforcing its status as one of the globe’s premier horses.

“That was incredible, I’m so proud of this horse,” McDonald remarked.

“He’s simply outstanding, and it’s a tremendous achievement by Danny [Shum] and his team.”

“The Japanese pushed him, but luck wasn’t on their side. He’s the best, forget the rest, he is unmatched. He’s been performing brilliantly, and anyone could ride him because he’s that straightforward, but I’m the lucky one.”

“He’s the horse of a lifetime. This was our chance to make history, and it felt like I was gearing up for the winning kick for the All Blacks. It truly was a pinch-me moment.”

These accolades come from McDonald, who recently guided Via Sistina to several headline races during the spring carnival in Australia.

Additionally, McDonald guided pre-race favourite Voyage Bubble to victory in the Group 1 Hong Kong Mile, while Aussie-based galloper Antino faced difficulties, finishing in 12th place.

The Kiwi star was also named the world’s best jockey this week following an outstanding 2024.

Aussie jockey Zac Purton piloted heavily-backed Ka Ying Rising to win the Hong Kong Sprint, which was one of the other Group 1 features of the event-filled day.

2023 Melbourne Cup victor Without A Fight struggled to make an impact, finishing out of the placings in the Hong Kong Vase.