Champion jockey Zac Purton will ride Land Legend in both the Caulfield Cup and Melbourne Cup, following the horse’s impressive victory in the Group 1 Metropolitan. The Hong Kong-based rider was confirmed after Land Legend’s win last Saturday, which secured his spot in the spring’s biggest races.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club confirmed Purton’s participation in a Tuesday press release, adding that he will return to Hong Kong after fulfilling his riding commitments in Australia. “Jockey Purton will return to Hong Kong immediately following those race meetings to fulfil his riding engagements,” the Club stated.

Land Legend, who is currently listed at $18 with betting sites for the 2024 Melbourne Cup, was handed a 1kg penalty, bringing his weight to 53kg for both races. “Whilst it was only the narrowest of margins, it was a performance that was worthy of a penalty,” Racing Victoria’s David Hegan noted, adding that the penalty aligns with those given to past Metropolitan winners No Compromise and Montefilia.

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