The 2022 LONGINES Hong Kong International Races marked the end of a significant career in Hong Kong – that of Joao “The Magic Man” Moreira.
For the past nine years Moreira has dominated the Hong Kong riding scene along with Zac Purton …with the rivalry of these two champion jockeys being a constant stand-out in the already vibrant racing scene … during which time Moreira has become part of folklore to the thousands of adoring fans.
Moreira has won the Hong Kong jockeys championship on four occasions. The highlight would have to be the 2016/17 season where he rode 170 winners and accumulated HK$207 million in prizemoney from the horses he rode. In the same season he set a Hong Kong record riding eight winners on the program on March 5 … a record that will probably stand for some time.
In front of a massive number of loyal fans in the Sha Tin parade ring prior to the first race on Sunday, Moreira choked back tears as he was officially farewelled in relatively a low-key ceremony
“My time in Hong Kong has been outstanding, not just about horse racing but all the good friends I have made,” said Moreira.
“I couldn’t go home without telling all of you that I love you very much. I really appreciate the great opportunity you have given me to ride all these years in Hong Kong. The journey has been outstanding, and the memories will stay in my heart, all the good ones and there have been plenty.
“Thanks to all the public for coming here for my farewell. I just would like to say thank you, I love you all very much.”
Sadly, Moreira has been plagued by a hip injury in the past months which has led to him handing in his license in Hong Kong.
Only 39, Moreira, who now returns to his home town in Brazil, has no immediate, locked-in plans in the saddle, however he has stated that he would like to undertake a mini world-wind international tour to try to ride in as many places as he can to acknowledge the global support for his career and to farewell his fans.
Moreira did announce that he would like to ride in Australia, Japan and in Europe on his goodbye tour, attempting to target feature races and win some more Group 1 races prior to the finally heading for permanent retirement.
In the last race of the day at Sha Tin on Sunday, many hoped there would be a fairy tale ending to such a distinguished career, but, after being held up several times in the straight aboard the Frankie Lor trained Beauty Live, Moreira had to settle for an agonisingly close second place behind the John Size trained Blaze Warrior, ridden by Ryan Moore.
However, he was left in no doubt as to the incredible contribution he has made to Hong Kong racing and the level of popularity he holds there when his loyal fans, standing eight to nine deep on the fence, cheered him as he returned to scale after the last race … for the very last time in Hong Kong.
Goodbye for now Joao – we hope to see you in Australia on your farewell tour.