The heat regarding the movement of thoroughbreds between countries has been turned up with Australia’s announcement that it will ban entry of Hong Kong horses from October 2.In an unprecedented move, the Australian agriculture department informed its Hong Kong counterpart that it intends to suspend horse movements between the two jurisdictions.The department said that Hong Kong horses could not be transported directly from Hong Kong to Australia for participation in racing events or for retirement. Hong Kong horses transported to Australia via New Zealand would require 180 days residency in New Zealand.The sudden ban follows on Australia’s requirement of a review of biosecurity controls in the equine disease-free zone between Hong Kong and Conghhua on the Chinese mainland. The response from the Hong Kong Jockey Club was immediate, with the club stating Australian horses would not be permitted to travel to compete in Hong Kong international races.A number of Australian runners usuall...
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