Leading European jockey Kevin Darley has scrapped plans to ride in Hong Kong next year. He cited personal reasons for his reason for wanting to end the agreement that would have required him to compete in Hong Kong from January 3 to March 17.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club accepted his request and released him from the obligation, England's Press Association reports.

Darley participated in the International Jockey Challenge at Happy Valley racecourse on December 12 where he finished 11th of 12 competitors.

He also rode in the international races at Sha Tin on December 16.