Pride takes over training Group 1 winner El Castello

Anthony Cummings’ reigning Spring Champion Stakes-winning colt El Castello has joined Warwick Farm trainer Joe Pride’s stable.

The rising four-year-old, who progressed from a maiden win at Warwick Farm last September to claiming the Group 3 Gloaming and Spring Champion in the space of four starts, did not race during the autumn for his then trainer Cummings.

El Castello had returned to work at Randwick after his fifth in the Victoria Derby last November, but Cummings sent the colt back to the paddock in late January due to some minor issues including bruising.

Cummings subsequently had his trainer’s licence rescinded by Racing NSW and was forced to vacate his Leilani Lodge stables. 

A stable return has been lodged by Pride confirming El Castello is in work at Warwick Farm with the Group 1-winning trainer. Cummings is still listed as the managing owner, according to the Racing Australia website.

Ciaron Maher was recently granted the lease on Leilani Lodge by the Australian Turf Club.