NEWS

First-phase dual-site trainers named for Conghua Training Centre

01/11/2017 14:20

The Hong Kong Jockey Club announced today, Wednesday, 1 November, the nine trainers allocated stables at its Conghua Training Centre (CTC), opening in Q3 2018.

Dual-site trainers for the first phase of CTC are:

  • Tony Cruz
  • Caspar Fownes
  • John Moore
  • Paul O’Sullivan
  • Danny Shum
  • John Size
  • Chris So
  • Me Tsui
  • Dennis Yip

Operations at CTC will gradually increase, with more trainers to be designated as dual-site operators in subsequent phases.

Mr Anthony Kelly, Executive Director, Racing Business and Operations, said: “The Conghua Training Centre is one of the most significant projects in the Club’s history and it is exciting to share the names of the dual-site trainers, which will be the first to operate a stable based in the Chinese Mainland. The Club has engaged with trainers throughout the many stages of planning and design to ensure CTC fits their needs in training Hong Kong horses. It will truly be a world-class venue for thoroughbred training.

“Eventually, the vast majority of Hong Kong trainers will have horses at Sha Tin and Conghua,” Mr Kelly continued, “with much consideration given to a phased implementation of the site. This model will also enable significant renovations to commence within the existing Sha Tin stable complex, which has operated at full capacity for decades.

“Owners of horses based with dual-site trainers will likely have some questions about CTC and we have a series of informational sessions planned for them in the coming weeks.”

Dual-site trainers will be permitted to increase their stable strength from 60 horses to 70 horses upon the opening of CTC. A horse’s stable base will be determined by the trainer’s assessment of the individual needs of each horse and can be changed on an as-needed basis. Twice weekly scheduled horse movements will transfer horses between the two locations.