It has taken Jose de Souza 21 rides to get back into the winner’s circle in his comeback to racing after being out for more than a year through suspension.

The Brazilian spent 11 successful years in Malaysia before heading to Mauritius where his stay was cut short by a suspension.

De Souza has spent much of the last few years on the sidelines and he is hoping that his win on Jing Jin in the final event at Sungai Besi today, the The Shore Shopping Gallery Stakes (Rebound Stakes – 1300m), will kick-start his career again for the former champion jockey.

Jing Jin jumped best and went straight to the front. But Magnitude joined him at the 800m and they matched strides till the top of the straight where Jing Jin started to pull away soon after.

Jing Jing was a clear leader ahead of Magnitude and Per Incrown coming to the 200m. Jazz Band joined in the chase of the leader shortly after.

Jazz Band made a vain bid to catch Jing Jin in the closing stages but to no avail, going down by a neck. Pacific Soldier finished third.

“Firstly, I want to thank the connections, the trainer, the owner, who supported me. This win is very much appreciated,” said De Souza.

“Now that I got my first win coming back, I look forward to more wins ahead.”

“It’s been a long time between drinks for this horse (Jing Jin),” said trainer Richard Lines.

A maiden win Singapore, the Capitalist galloper has won twice since coming under  R Lines in Malaysia. But his last win was 12 months ago, in January last year.

“He showed that he was coming back to form last start (when he finished second). It’s just the Jose De Souza ride that made the difference today. Great to have him back.”

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