London // Simon Crisford has announced his intention to become a trainer following his departure from Godolphin earlier this year.
The former Godolphin racing manager has been working as the global racing adviser to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, after he departed Godolphin in February, having worked for the Dubai-based operation since 1994.
Crisford, 52, will continue in that capacity but will also operate a small yard out of Clive Brittain’s Carlburg stables in Newmarket. He said he hopes to be up and running by the start of the European flat season in April.
“It is something I have always wanted to do and I am delighted to have the opportunity to realise that ambition now,” Crisford said.
“My immediate plans are to start structuring my new business and to recruit some talented staff.
“I will be operating as a public trainer, but I also hope that the Maktoum family might consider supporting me.”
Before Crisford was appointed by Godolphin, he had worked as assistant trainer to John Dunlop, with whom Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid had horses, and Sir Mark Prescott.
Crisford has yet to apply to the British Horseracing Authority for a licence and will need to go through the lengthy qualifying process to satisfy the regulatory body.
“Should we receive an application it will be considered in the normal manner, in light of the standard criteria set out in the application guidance notes,” BHA spokesman Robin Mounsey said. “These criteria include the completion of all relevant modules of the training programme.”
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