Brit Plumptre to guide Cambridge Stud
Vastly-experienced British thoroughbred identity Henry Plumptre is to play a leading hand in the future of powerhouse New Zealand nursery Cambridge Stud.
He will assume the role as the farm’s chief executive when new owners Brendan and Jo Lindsay take control in April of next year from Sir Patrick and Justine Lady Hogan.
In a coup for the New Zealand industry, Plumptre boasts a distinguished global career spanning three continents and more than 40 years’ experience in bloodstock, stud farms and racing operations.
“Henry Plumptre has overseen some exceptional achievements during his career,” Brendan Lindsay said.
“He has built world-class brands and brings vast international experience to this new role. Jo and I are delighted that he has agreed to be a key component of the new Cambridge Stud team next year.
“Having a man of Henry’s calibre at the day-to-day helm of Cambridge Stud is a huge vote of confidence in the future of the stud and his willingness to re-locate to New Zealand with his wife, Michelle, also speaks volumes about the reputation of our industry. He brings a huge wealth of knowledge to this new role.”
Marcus Corban, who has played such an important role in the success of Cambridge Stud, will remain in his role as general manager.
The English-born Plumptre will also act as racing manager for the Lindsays, who have their private operation at Karaka under trainer Lance Noble’s guidance.
“To oversee the future success of Cambridge Stud is a once in a lifetime opportunity and is one that I simply could not turn down,” he said.
“The stud stands tall world-wide and to be part of its future is a real privilege. I have always held Cambridge Stud in the highest esteem and Sir Patrick and Lady Hogan’s ‘passing of the baton’ has gone to exactly the right people in Brendan and Jo Lindsay.
“I have been involved in many international thoroughbred operations and there is no doubt in my mind that this role will be very rewarding. New Zealand may be small in size, however its thoroughbred industry is magnificent in stature and Cambridge Stud has always been a pivotal part of that prominence.”
Plumptre’s bloodstock expertise has included major leadership roles with Widden and Arrowfield Studs in Australia.
As an independent bloodstock agent, he was responsible for the purchase of racing superstars such as eight-time group one winner Mahogany, Golden Slipper winner Merlene, Hong Kong champion sprinter and three-time group one winner Charming City as well as group one Dubai winner Sterling City.
His sharp eye also identified threetime group one winner Lashed.
As managing director of Darley/ Godolphin, he led the integration of the acclaimed Woodlands Stud into that operation following its purchase by the group.
During his nine-year tenure, Godolphin recorded 328 stakes’ winners, including 41 at group one level and celebrated three Champion Sires’ titles with Lonhro, Exceed and Excel and Street Cry.