Experienced and respected horseman Paul Richards is to join Te Akau Racing.

“Te Akau intends to target all the major racing carnivals in Australia as well as New Zealand and Paul will assume the role of travelling foreman,” principal David Ellis said.

“The calibre of bloodstock that we have in the stable for the new season is formidable and we cannot wait for the season to get underway. 

“Paul is also very skilled in dealing with young people and, with his many successful years in the saddle, he will also be concentrating on guiding and developing our Te Akau apprentices.  This too is an area where he has excelled.”

Richards’ son Jamie is currently training at Te Akau with Stephen Autridge, but will take sole charge at the beginning of the new season.