In 1995, a rule was introduced that retired licensed expatriate trainers at 60. But as of yesterday, they were given equal terms with local trainers and can now work on until they are 65 - assuming all other licensing conditions are met.

Although chief steward Jamie Stier said the change was not aimed at any individual trainer, there's no doubt the prospect of losing five-time premier handler Size (pictured) back to Australia weighed heavily on the collective mind of club management.

"For several years now we have been looking at the issue of the differing retirement ages for trainers and this amendment addresses the discriminatory nature of that anomaly," Stier said.

Size said last night the news would almost certainly see him extend his Hong Kong career.

"I didn't think I'd be ready to give up [training] at 60 and wondered what I might do, so that's good news," Size said. "I've enjoyed the season and I'm managing the workload without a problem, riding the same number of horses in work as I was five years ago, so I can't see any reason why I wouldn't continue. I'm just doing what I love doing."

The club also is scrapping limits on outside rides for a retained jockey. From next season, there will be no limit on outside rides for the two stable-retained riders Weichong Marwing (attached to Ricky Yiu Poon-fie) and Darren Beadman (John Moore).

Andy Leung Ting-wah is understood to be negotiating a retainership as well, with sources predicting a return for British jockey Brett Doyle.