JIM Mason - barely known in racing circles - has been given permission to replace Gerald Ryan as trainer of the 60 horses in Hobson's Lodge stables at Flemington. The 31-year-old Mason had his first starters at Flemington yesterday.
Mason, who has been the pre-trainer for Hobson's Lodge for the past three years, was granted a general permit to train by the Victoria Racing Club committee last week. 'There is a clause connected with the licence which prohibits Mr Mason from having any communications with Mr Ryan in respect of the Hobson's Lodge stable of horses,' the VRC's chief executive Brian Beattie later revealed.
Mason is restricted to being a full-time resident trainer for Hobson's Lodge and David Moodie's Contract Racing Syndicate. However, it is understood that even at this earlier stage Mason is uncomfortable with the media exposure and pressure associated with the position. He even had to be bought new clothes before appearing before the committee. Although there is, as yet, no official confirmation Ryan is expected to replace Mason as the pre-trainer for Hobson's Lodge. The 41-year-old Ryan is Melbourne's leading trainer so far this season with 59 winners.
But after an inquiry involving 33 people connected with the stable - and allegations of sexual harassment - Ryan decided to hand-in his training licence to the VRC last Monday. The committee discussed the situation last week and later issued a media release. It said: 'As Mr Ryan had surrendered his trainer's licence and given appropriate undertakings, no further action was necessary in respect of this matter. 'Any application by Mr Ryan in the future to be relicensed under the Rules of Racing would be heard in accordance with the VRC's normal procedure.
'At such time the committee would be required to consider whether Mr Ryan is a fit and proper person to hold a trainer's licence and, on what terms he may hold such a licence.' Sean Mott, who was previously foreman for Ryan at Hobson's Lodge, is on leave. He is expected to transfer to the Flemington stables of Lee Freedman when he returns.
It is believed that Mott has also been approached with an offer from representatives of Randwick-based trainer Gai Waterhouse, who will be expanding her Melbourne operation within the next few months. Former Hong Kong-based jockey Steven King rode a perfectly judged race to win the Group One A$1 million Stradbroke Handicap (1,400 metres) at Eagle Farm yesterday on Danasinga.