The Hong Kong Jockey Club is sad to learn that Brian Kan, one of the most successful trainers in Hong Kong racing history, has passed away.

Born in Hong Kong, Kan was one of city’s most iconic racing figures, winning five trainers’ championships across his time with 844 wins in total – a record at one time. The last trainers’ championship he won in 2001 was particularly impressive as he had a keen competition with international trainers in Hong Kong.

Paying tribute, The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges said: “Brian was not only a remarkable trainer with outstanding training records, but also a good teacher with strong commitment to nurture home grown racing talents, particularly trainers and jockeys for the next generation. They include Dennis Yip, also a champion trainer, Me Tsui and Jimmy Ting. All of them are seasoned trainers in Hong Kong. It is unquestionable that Kan had played an important role in the development of Hong Kong racing.

 “On behalf of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to his family.”

Throughout his time as a trainer in Hong Kong, Kan was best known for successfully nurturing five Hong Kong Derby winners – Superior Gold (1985), Yuno When (1986), William’s Coach (1989), Sound Print (1992) and Industrial Pioneer (2001).

He won the very first edition of the Hong Kong Cup – formerly known as the Hong Kong Invitation Cup – with Flying Dancer in 1988; he was synonymous for the handling of Industrialist, winner of the Hong Kong Gold Cup and Queen Elizabeth II Cup in 2000.

Kan claimed two Hong Kong Horse of The Year titles with Yuno When (1985/86) and Flying Dancer (1986/87).