Freedman stands down

Prominent Australian handler Lee Freedman has stood down as head trainer of his Markdel stables in Victoria.

Freedman will remain involved in the day-to-day operations at the yard, but has handed over the reins to his brother, Anthony, with immediate effect.

He said: “After a great deal of thought, I have made this decision to allow me the time to reassess our business.

“I am not satisfied with how things have been over the past few years and the time is right for me to have a good look at every aspect of how we do business.”

Freedman, 53, first took out a licence in 1983 and has trained 124 Group One winners, including five triumphs in the Melbourne Cup.

He added: “Anthony has served a 25-year apprenticeship and will bring great skill and a fresh approach to an ever-changing business.

“We feel this is the best way to rejuvenate the business.

“I am sure Anthony will be a great success and I will derive a lot of pleasure from assisting him to achieve that.”