Brett Crawford, one of South Africa’s most accomplished trainers, has been granted a Hong Kong training licence, marking an exciting new chapter in his career.

At 53, Crawford boasts an impressive record, with 38 Group 1 victories and nearly 1,500 career winners. His journey in horse racing began as a child, riding work before moving straight into stable life after finishing school. He gained valuable experience under some of South Africa’s most respected trainers, including the internationally renowned Mike de Kock and champion trainers Eric Sands and Dennis Drier.

Crawford’s career as a trainer officially began in 2001 when he secured a position as a private trainer for Sabine Plattner, one of South Africa’s top thoroughbred owners. In 2010, he transitioned to an open licence, allowing him to train for a broader range of clients. His most successful season came in 2017/18, when he claimed six Group 1 victories.

Based primarily in the Western Cape, Crawford also managed a satellite stable in Johannesburg and trained in partnership with his son, James, during the 2023/24 season. He finished third in the South African Trainers’ Premiership that season, securing 106 winners at an 11.7% strike rate. He began the 2024/25 season in strong form, racking up 29 winners under his own name before officially partnering with James, with the duo adding another 13 wins by late January.

One of Crawford’s standout recent achievements was winning the 2024 Durban July with Oriental Charm, owned in partnership with Greg Bortz, securing his second victory in South Africa’s most prestigious race.

His move to Hong Kong signals a bold new step in his career, where his experience and expertise will be tested in one of the world’s most competitive racing jurisdictions.