James Cummings is preparing to wrap up his tenure as Godolphin’s Australian head trainer, marking the end of a significant chapter before the stable adopts a public training model from August 1.
“There are mixed emotions,” Cummings told SEN radio.
“There is passion for the horses and when those horses start getting on trucks and moving to different stables, it is tinged with some sadness.”
Cummings, who took the helm in 2017, will take a year off before beginning a new chapter in Hong Kong for the 2026–27 season.
This Saturday, he oversees his final Godolphin runners, including three in the Group 3 Bletchingly Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield—led by Kin, who was a Listed winner in Queensland and recently finished fifth in the Sir John Monash Stakes (1100m).
“She enjoys being held up but then getting to the outside… I’d like to think she’s got some chance,” Cummings said.
Stablemates Kallos and Inhibitions also line up, while in Sydney, Tarpaulin contests the ATC Thank You Trainers Handicap (1100m).
Cummings also expects a strong spring from Tom Kitten, now with Anthony and Sam Freedman. Top filly Tempting and stayer Zardozi head to Ciaron Maher.