Van Niekerk ready for Hong Kong

GRANT van Niekerk is looking forward to the Hong Kong season opener on Sunday, September 2, when he will start a new chapter in his racing life.

“I spoke to Basil Marcus, who did very well when riding here, and he gave me some advice. I can already feel how competitive it is among the jockeys here and Basil just told me to work hard and keep pushing and eventually things will turn for me. That’s what I will do – I will just try my best.”

The 10-time Grade 1 winner exuded a calm confidence, upbeat attitude, and warm cordiality as he spoke during a media conference at Sha Tin Racecourse.

“My strength has always been my confidence,” he said. “If things get you down or there’s negativity, just push it to the side and carry on. Confidence, with me, is a big key. Once my confidence is up, it’s all much easier.

“I don’t put any obstacles in my own way. I keep a positive attitude and I just always want to do the best I can. I’ll have to win races to make it here, I know that, but if I get the opportunities, I do believe that I can deliver.”

And the rider expects – like many a jockey before him – to improve his skillset during his time in the city.

“That’s one of the main reasons we travel and ride overseas; it’s to improve as a rider. It’s all about the experience and I’m enthusiastic about that,” he added. “Coming here opens up doors to any jockey. You have to take your chance and make the most of it and that’s what I intend to do.” – Punters.com.au