Jockeys opt to leave Hong Kong

Jamie Spencer, Steven Drowne and Martin Dwyer have all decided to end their contracts in Hong Kong after just a few weeks.

Spencer, who had an agreement to ride from November 11 to March 1, is believed to have been disappointed at the lack of rides in Hong Kong and is currently serving an suspension.

He told the Hong Kong Jockey Club that since accepting his contract he had been appointed retained rider for Aidan O’Brien in Ireland.

The official report on the Hong Kong Jockey Club website said: “He decided to honour his commitment to ride in Hong Kong so as not to disadvantage the Club and since arriving in Hong Kong he has become aware of the considerable preparation that has to be undertaken prior to accepting such a high profile position as the number one rider for the Coolmore organisation including the task of relocating from England to Ireland.”

Both Drowne and Dwyer cited family reasons for wanting to return to England.

Drowne was contracted from November 26 until March 21.

The HKJC report read: “He advised us his wife was unable to travel to Hong Kong with him due to having commenced new employment in the weeks leading up to his arrival in Hong Kong.

“He added he found it difficult to remain in Hong Kong without his wife being present and there were further personal issues involving his family and he wished to return to England to be with his family during this time.”

Dwyer, who was to have ridden from December 8 to March 21, has terminated his contract as his young child has been taken ill.

The HKJC official report read: “Jockey Dwyer has advised us his wife and their young child, who both travelled with him to Hong Kong, have returned to England due to their child being taken ill whilst in Hong Kong.

“He states he wishes to return to England to be with his family at this time.”

Both Drowne and Dwyer will fulfil their riding engagements at Sha Tin tomorrow.

Spencer has had three winners while Drowne and Dwyer have yet to open their account.