Hong Kong’s So Bloodstock secures Japanese owners’ permit

Hong Kong-based So Bloodstock has secured one of international racing’s most tightly held prizes after being granted an owner’s licence by the Japan Racing Association, allowing the operation to race horses in Japan under the name So Chun Hung.

The approval marks a significant milestone in the gradual internationalisation of Japanese racing, with non-resident ownership permitted only on a highly selective basis since 2009, and underscores the JRA’s strict requirements regarding financial standing and integrity.

So Bloodstock’s entry into the jurisdiction follows an invitation from Northern Farm after attending the JRHA Select Sale, where the group purchased a well-bred filly by Silver State out of Reve D’Olive, who will be trained by Yoshitake Hashida at the Ritto Training Centre and is expected to debut in late 2026.

The licence provides access to Japan’s lucrative racing program, elite sales and globally influential bloodstock, as well as a platform for So Bloodstock to further its international breeding ambitions across its existing interests in Hong Kong, Australia, Europe and New Zealand.

So Bloodstock, under the management of Chris So, his wife Mandy Kwan and their son Alex, have had a long-term relationship with Australian agent John Foote, who has assisted in the purchase of the majority of their horses.

They have horses in training with Patrick Payne, Joe Pride and Cliff Brown in Australia, as well as Joseph O’Brien in Ireland.

So Bloodstock joins a select group of international owners to gain access to the Japanese system, with prominent global figures, including John Magnier of Coolmore, also holding a permit to race horses in Japan.