Chong (24) registered his seventh career victory when piloting outsider Party Cat to a popular victory for Omakau trainer Murray Hamilton.
But it has been a hard road back for Chong after he ruptured not one, but two ligaments in his left knee when riding Inglesia Bay at Wingatui in early October, 2011.
''I fell off before getting to the starting gates and did a PCL [posterior cruciate ligament],'' Chong said. I finished the race, and got off and my knee kept giving way,'' the Malaysian-born jockey said.
Chong was taken to Dunedin Hospital and it was discovered he had also ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament. It resulted in 12 months between race rides before he resumed in October.
It has taken Chong some time to regain confidence and fitness. He had 36 rides this season before yesterday's win.
''It's been a long process.
''I was back riding in October and dropped back to the bottom [of the list] and improved my fitness all the time.''
Chong was grateful to his employer, Murray Hamilton, who has shown patience with Chong as he worked his way back to success with Party Cat - his first success since What A Find at Wingatui in September 2011.
''He's been pretty quiet since I've been back, just wanting me to take my time and try to get my fitness back,'' Chong said.
''But now he trusts me, and is getting me more rides and better rides all the time, so I'm very appreciative about that.''
Chong's joy was slightly tempered when his small salute 20m before the line earned him a $100 fine.
