Australian jockey Zac Purton has rocketed into third place in the Hong Kong jockeys’ premiership courtesy of a winning treble at Happy Valley.

Purton opened his account with a win aboard Industrial Legend before adding to his tally with victories on Wind Damper and Charity Spirit, who took out the feature Victoria Racing Club Trophy at Wednesday night’s meeting.

The hoop has now ridden 24 winners this season, one less than fellow Australian Brett Prebble.

Purton and Prebble trail runaway premiership leader Douglas Whyte who has ridden 49 winners.

Champion jockey Darren Beadman is sixth in the title race with 22 wins.

Purton could also be in for a big day at Sha Tin on Sunday after picking up the mount on Little Bridge in the Group One Chairman’s Sprint Trophy (1200m).