As the Hong Kong racing season approaches its conclusion, respected trainer Benno Yung prepares to step away from his professional duties, marking the end of an admirable chapter in his career. After over a decade of operating his own stable, Yung will officially retire following the Season Finale at Happy Valley on July 16. His journey through Hong Kong racing has been nothing short of remarkable, not just for the results but for the friendships and bonds built along the way.
Since being granted his training license in the 2013/14 season, Yung has delivered consistent results year after year, accumulating 359 winners to date. His stable has been recognised for its reliability, and his own story of resilience has inspired many, especially his determined comeback after his battle with acute myeloid leukaemia last year.
Reflecting on his career, Yung acknowledges the unwavering support he’s received from his owners — relationships that evolved beyond business, becoming true friendships. That loyalty, both given and received, has defined his time in the sport.
Yung’s career statistics speak for themselves. In most seasons, his win tally never fell below the 20-mark, with six campaigns producing 30 or more victories. Among the horses who left a lasting impression under his guidance are the powerful Pingwu Spark, Hong Kong Derby-placed Romantic Touch, Hinchinlove, Son Pak Fu, and Precision King, who notably defeated champion Rapper Dragon early in his career.
Yung’s path in racing began humbly, starting as an apprentice jockey in the 1970s. Over time, he climbed the ranks, serving as assistant trainer to Christopher Cheung, followed by two seasons under Tony Millard, and later becoming an integral part of John Size’s highly successful stable. Yung played a crucial role in Size’s first seven trainers’ championships, an experience he fondly recalls as a period of growth and learning under one of the sport’s sharpest minds.
John Size himself expressed admiration for Yung’s dedication, highlighting the harmony and professionalism they shared during their 12-year partnership — a bond built on mutual respect, with Yung providing steadfast support, particularly in navigating the complexities of the Hong Kong Jockey Club environment.
Yung’s early years in the sport weren’t easy. He developed his craft at Sha Tin’s Apprentice Jockeys’ School, later joining the stable of Tam Man Kui, a dual Hong Kong Derby-winning trainer. Those days were highly competitive, with multiple apprentices in each yard battling for limited opportunities, whether in trackwork or race riding.
Among Yung’s standout horses, none made an impact quite like Pingwu Spark. Known for his imposing size, the towering grey required careful management but rewarded patience with impressive performances. Pingwu Spark notched five wins from his first seven starts in Hong Kong, including multiple Class 2 triumphs, and placed third behind Beauty Only in the prestigious 2018 G2 Chairman’s Trophy. His career earnings surpassed HK$8.75 million, and his highest rating of 119 remains the peak for any horse trained by Yung.
As his career winds down, Yung remains actively engaged with promising runners still under his care. At Sha Tin’s upcoming meeting on July 1, Yung saddles Tourbillon Prince, a consistent performer set to contest the competitive Hong Kong Reunification Cup Handicap over 1400 metres, with jockey Matthew Poon aboard.
That same race features rising star Light Years Charm for trainer David Eustace, seeking a third consecutive victory under champion jockey Zac Purton. Eustace’s stablemate, Swift Ascend, will also line up, aiming to make his presence felt.
Meanwhile, Straight To Glory, a promising three-year-old from Yung’s yard, returns to the shorter 1000-metre trip after a bold showing at long odds last time out. The colt, partnered by James Orman, is expected to relish the drop in distance, with Yung optimistic about his potential.
With only five race meetings remaining before his retirement, Yung’s impact on Hong Kong racing — both in performance and the respect he commands — is sure to be celebrated by many across the industry.
