India Breaking News reported Tonycruz assist Codymo has been awarded with trainer license Jockey Club, that after nine seasons of working under various renowned trainers including David Hall, David Ferraris, Benno Yung, and notably Tony Cruz, Cody Mo Wai-kit has stepped up to become a trainer himself, having been granted a trainer’s license by the Hong Kong Jockey Club for the 2023-2024 season.

trainer license Jockey Club

After an extensive apprenticeship that began with his career as a jockey in 1993 and transition to assistant trainer in 2008, Mo is set to transition from his role as an assistant and compete against seasoned trainers like his mentor, Tony Cruz. This comes after the Hong Kong Jockey Club recently announced the introduction of Australian trainer Mark Newnham to the Hong Kong training scene next season.

Mo, who became Tony Cruz’s indispensable assistant in the 2014-15 season, has had a remarkable track record during his nine years with Cruz, including eight Group 1 wins and two Classic victories. Expressing his gratitude, Mo stated, “I would like to sincerely thank the Hong Kong Jockey Club and the Licensing Board for this incredible opportunity. Having been associated with the Jockey Club since 1993, this new chapter as a trainer is an exciting progression in my career.”

Andrew Harding, the Jockey Club’s executive director, remarked on Mo’s readiness for this advancement, noting his consistent hard work and the rich experience he gained under some of the best trainers. The Licensing Committee believed it was the appropriate time for Mo to step into a trainer role and contribute to the sport, especially as the horse population is expected to increase and the club is looking to enhance local talent post-pandemic.

Tonycruz assist Codymo

Meanwhile, the well-known Shaw family of Hong Kong, active in horse racing, is aiming for success at the Epsom Derby with their horse Wippiro, trained by Ed Walker. Wippiro, sired by 2014 Epsom Derby winner Australia, has shown great potential, especially after an impressive performance in Newmarket in April and a strong second-place finish at the Leedsfield Derby Trial in May. The family’s racing manager, Alastair Donald, remains optimistic about Wippiro’s chances against more favored runners, despite concerns about the horse’s temperament at the unique Epsom circuit.

In another development, Frankie Lor Fu-chuen faced a last-minute jockey change for Sword Point in Happy Valley due to Silvestre de Sousa’s disqualification over gambling violations. After considering several top jockeys, Lor secured Karis Teetan for the ride, making Teetan the sixth jockey to partner with Sword Point in Hong Kong.

The Hong Kong racing scene continues to evolve with new trainers and promising horses, setting the stage for exciting competitions and further growth of the sport.