Thrilling jockeys' title battle just one story in a busy year off the track

The Hong Kong season was momentous on many fronts and true to the definition of that adjective given what may be to come in 2018-2019.

The region’s racing year was as much about the people and events as the horses, with the news on that front led by the battle for the jockeys' championship. Other notable events included the official opening of the Conghua training complex in mainland China, record turnover and the continued growth of commingling.

Zac Purton dared to usurp the Magic Man, Joao Moreira. First-season trainer Frankie Lor performed admirably in attempting to do likewise to his mentor John Size. Nash Rawiller, alas, dared to tempt fate and may pay a heavy price.