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Moreira Returns with Four-Timer as Fownes Draws Level

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Last updated: Wed 08 Apr 2026 16:54

João Moreira marked an impressive return to Hong Kong by clinching four victories at Happy Valley on April 8, partnering with trainer Caspar Fownes. This stunning performance, which sees Moreira's total Hong Kong wins climb to 1,246, includes tactics from both ends of the field, highlighting his versatility. The wins bolster Fownes' standing, tying him with Mark Newnham in the premiership. The Moreira-Fownes collaboration is now a formidable force as the season approaches its climax, promising intense competition in the remaining races.

Bets.com.au Staff 08 Apr 2026
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  • João Moreira wins four races at Happy Valley in a triumphant return
  • Moreira and Caspar Fownes partnership sparks excitement in the season
  • Fownes is now tied with Mark Newnham at the top of the premiership
moreira/fownes news
João Moreira after winning the 2021 Hong Kong Derby aboard Sky Darci for trainer Caspar Fownes. (Getty)

João Moreira has made a stunning return to Hong Kong, riding four winners at Happy Valley on April 8 to launch his three-month stint in dominant fashion, with all victories coming for trainer Caspar Fownes.

The Brazilian star, known as “The Magic Man,” now sits on 1,246 Hong Kong winners following a strong display on Wednesday night.

Moreira showed his versatility across the four-timer, coming from back in the field to salute aboard Decision Link in the opener, while his second victory came in race four aboard Golden Brilliant via another swooping ride.

His final two winners were both produced from the front, firstly with Sky Cap in the opening leg of the quaddie, while Perfect General was the only favourite to salute on the program when “The Magic Man” led throughout aboard the son of Zoustar in the penultimate.
Moreira is one of the most accomplished jockeys of the modern era in Hong Kong, having claimed four jockeys’ premierships (2014/15, 2015/16, 2016/17 and 2020/21) during a period of sustained dominance in the saddle.

After stepping away from full-time riding in Hong Kong in 2022, Moreira has continued to compete at the elite level internationally, riding across Japan, Australia and major global meetings before returning for the closing months of the current season.

Fownes, a four-time Hong Kong Champion Trainer (2006/07, 2008/09, 2013/14 & 2020/21), has drawn now level with Mark Newnham at the top of the premiership, moving to 47 wins for the season.

The immediate success of the Moreira-Fownes partnership adds intrigue to the closing stages of the Hong Kong season, with momentum firmly on their side in a tightly contested trainers’ title race.

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