Cummings Legacy Comes to a Close at Iconic Sydney Stables Following Trainer’s Licence Cancellation

The illustrious Cummings dynasty at Randwick’s Leilani Lodge may be coming to an end following trainer Anthony’s decision to withdraw his licence appeal.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Cummings, son of legendary trainer Bart Cummings, officially cancelled his appeal to Racing NSW on Tuesday.

The regulatory authority has cancelled his licence, demanding he vacate the renowned stables situated in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, amid reports claiming his business is encumbered with debts totalling $2 million.

Bart Cummings, who holds the record for training 12 Melbourne Cup winners, was based at Leilani Lodge, which has been in the family’s possession for over 50 years.

The stables could retain the Cummings name only if one of Anthony’s sons—either Edward or James—takes over the lease.

However, it appears unlikely that James will make the move, as he is currently training for the prominent Godolphin stable at a private facility located north of Sydney.

Edward currently trains horses at Hawkesbury, also to the north of Sydney, and has submitted a request to Racing NSW to upgrade his licence from provincial to metropolitan status.

The Herald indicates that the Australian Turf Club has approved Edward relocating to Leilani Lodge, but he is still awaiting Racing NSW’s approval for his licence upgrade before he can make a potential move to Sydney’s east.

Previously, Edward and Anthony collaborated as a training partnership.

Just last month, Anthony expressed his frustration regarding Racing NSW’s decision to take his licence and evict him from Leilani Lodge.

“The training business is functioning profitably and we’ve had a string of recent winners,” Cummings stated to News Corp.

“However, it’s challenging when your career lies in the hands of others.

“I’m perplexed by the entire situation. I haven’t done anything wrong or breached any rules, and I simply don’t understand it.”

Currently, Cummings has over 50 horses in training at Leilani Lodge.

Any horses under his management will need to be reassigned to another trainer.