Callan Knocks Back HKJC Approach

Jockey Neil Callan is returning back home to his family in the United Kingdom rather than remaining in Hong Kong for another season. The Hong Kong Jockey Club gave Callan an extension for his application after an administrative hiccup saw him not receive his contracts, however Callan still declined and stayed committed to returning to his wife and two of his four sons in England. “After extended discussions, we have decided that unfortunately it would not be the right decision for our family [to reapply] at this late stage,” Callan told scmp.com. “But I am thankful for being given the opportunity to reapply and under different circumstances, would have strongly considered it.” Callan will finish up after seven seasons of being a full-time rider with 276 wins in his Hong Kong career, and intimated he is willing to return for a stint if offered an opportunity in the winter months.