3 minute read
Changes are afoot for leading New Zealand outfit Te Akau Racing.
Jamie Richards is set to join the training ranks in Hong Kong while Singapore-based Mark Walker is returning to New Zealand after 11 years.
Walker is set to return to New Zealand early next year while Richards is expected to depart for Hong Kong in May to prepare for the opening of the new season later in the year.
Principal David Ellis said Te Akau Racing was delighted on two fronts.
"Firstly, it is an honour that Te Akau's New Zealand trainer Jamie Richards has been invited to train in Hong Kong on the back of his success with Te Akau Racing," Ellis said.
"Jamie commenced his training career in May 2015. It all started with Te Akau, and I am certainly very proud that his, and the stable's success has been recognised internationally.
"It's an incredible and rare opportunity for this young New Zealander and we all wish him every success as he pursues his dream of being the world's best trainer."
Richards said he owes so much to the team at Te Akau that has surrounded him with wonderful personal and the very best in bloodstock.
"I can't wait to fly the Kiwi flag and be the very best ambassador possible for our industry in Hong Kong," Richards said.
Walker is a five-time champion New Zealand trainer and four-time Singapore champion and returns to as head of the Te Akau training after 11 years in Singapore.
He said he was excited to be returning home and being able to work with young horses again having had 'ready-made' horses come his way in Singapore.
Walker has been closely linked to Te Akau Racing since he left school and is a partner in the operation.
"I have remained closely involved in Te Akau's New Zealand operation while being in Singapore and with the quality of horses David buys, it's wonderful to be involved with the New Zealand industry again," Walker said.
Te Akau Racing will still have a significant presence in Singapore with New Zealander Donna Logan taking over the Te Akau and Fortuna horses at Kranji.
