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Racing giant Yulong Investments have taken the unusual step of sending a text message to Australian racing connections to dismiss rumours about billionaire Chinese owner Yuesheng Zhang’s absence from Saturday’s Cox Plate meeting.
The man behind mega racing operation Yulong Investments will not be at Moonee Valley to watch his Cox Plate favourite Via Sistina defend her crown.
Chinese billionaire Yuesheng Zhang.
Concerns had been raised in racing circles this week that Zhang could not secure an Australian visa in time to make it to Melbourne to watch the race, two sources who wished to remain anonymous told this masthead.
But Yulong confirmed to this masthead on Friday morning that the organisation’s general manager, Jun Zhang, who is the owner’s son-in-law, had sent a text to several people in the breeding industry this week to dispel the concerns.
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“I just wanted to take a moment to address the recent rumours about Yulong – they’re completely untrue,” Jun wrote.
“Thank you all for your concern and support. I’m sorry this kind of talk has been circulating and causing some unnecessary distraction.
“Let’s stay focused on what really matters which is enjoying the racing season and continuing the great work we’re all doing together. Really appreciate everyone’s effort and commitment to Yulong.”
Yulong is a massive racing and breeding industry that operates out of Nagambie.
The operation’s horses race with several leading trainers across Australia such as Chris Waller, Ciaron Maher and the Hayes family’s Lindsay Park.
At a Cox Plate launch earlier this month, Yulong chief operating officer Sam Fairgray said it had been phenomenal for his boss to be trackside to witness Via Sistina’s record-breaking romp last year.
Via Sistina at Altona Beach this month.Credit: Getty Images
“He obviously isn’t here all the time, but to be here, among the atmosphere and the closeness of the Cox Plate, and for her to win the way she did, it was a very, very special moment for him,” Fairgray said.
“I’m sure he’ll remember that for the rest of his life.
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“I’ve been with Mr Zhang since 2018, and he can’t speak English, but he’s gone from someone who’s quite shy and reserved to now making so many friends within the racing industry here in Australia and worldwide, and he absolutely loves it and the thrill of it.
“And, you know, knowledge wise, he would be up there with anybody here in Australia, with knowing what’s going on around the world and here in Australia and the industry.”
Fairgray gave no indication of any impending drama when he explained earlier this week why Zhang, the owner of last year’s Cox Plate winner Via Sistina, would not be at Mooney Valley for Saturday’s race.
“He’s already seen a Cox Plate win – he’s done it once, he doesn’t need to see it again,” Fairgray said.
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