Lyle Hewitson’s recent fine run in Hong Kong in which he won five races in six rides has been received with a lot of fanfare in SA, whose sports fans are always supportive of their stars, and this is sure to have not gone unnoticed by the reigning SA Champion jockey.

His treble on Friday at Happy Valley came through three consecutive front-running rides.

He said yesterday to Turf Talk, “I’m thrilled – it is very rewarding especially considering the long road I have had to endure to get this type of success. I’m grateful for the support.”

His first win was for Ricky Yiu on World Famous (Reliable Man) in a class 4 event over 1650m.

He then scored twice for Douglas Whyte, both in class 4 1200m events, on Valiant Elegance (Salade) and Xponential (Equiano).

It was the third time he had won on Valiant Elegance.  

He would have likely been a longshot for the Jockeys Challenge on the day because he only had five rides but he walked away with it as he scored three wins and two seconds to emphasise just what fine form he is in.

He had said to the South China Morning Post after the wins, ““Things are going well. It took one or two (winners) just to get my confidence back up and, fortunately, I’m getting lots of rides that are worth coming to the course for and making the most of it.”

He continued, “It’s been fantastic, and I’ll never take anything for granted any more. I’m just going to keep accepting those opportunities and make the most of them until the end of the season and come back in good spirits for next season.”

Whyte was full of praise for his rider and backed him to continue his recent run of good form.

“Lyle is a hard worker and is riding very well,” he said. “It was only a matter of time before things fell into place and he found his place among the winners. He’s certainly on a roll and it shouldn’t stop. He’s riding well.”

Hewitson had spoken of the fitness regime he keeps up seven days a week after his double on Sunday and it is clear this dedication is also paying dividends.

Only a superbly fit jockey would have been able to pull off such rides which were characterised by vigorous driving from the entrance to the straight all the way to the line.

His nutritional requirements are also well catered for in Hong Kong.

He said, “I am very open minded when it comes to food so have no issues here but mostly we buy groceries that we can make meals at home that we are accustomed too. The jockey club does have a nutritionist and sports scientist who works in accordance with us and is there for any questions or advice needed.”.

Picture above: Hewitson thrilled after a fine treble on Wednesday (hkjc.com)