Te Akau Appoints New Racing Manager - New Zealand

TE AKAU RACING ANNOUNCES THE APPOINTMENT OF TOM MURPHY AS RACING MANAGER (NEW ZEALAND)

The appointment represents an exciting next step for Tom, who has become an integral member of the Te Akau team. Most recently one of our Foreman overseeing the Te Akau Colt Barn, Tom has been responsible for the day-to-day operation of the barn and its team, working closely with our trainers, veterinarians and other professionals across all aspects of horse management and development.

Originally from County Kildare in Ireland, Tom has been immersed in horses from a young age. Growing up on his family’s farm, where his parents were involved in breaking-in and pre-training young horses, as well as training a small number of racehorses, his passion for the thoroughbred industry was established early.

He began working professionally in the industry at just 17 and has since built an extensive and diverse career spanning racing, breeding, bloodstock sales and young horse development across Ireland, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

Alongside his practical horsemanship, Tom graduated from the National University of Ireland Galway with a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Economics and completed the Irish National Stud Thoroughbred Breeding Management Course.

His international racing experience has included working at the Darley Japan Pre-Training Centre, riding work for Tom Clover Racing in the United Kingdom, and serving as Assistant Foreperson for John O'Donoghue Racing in Ireland.

Tom also brings considerable stud and bloodstock experience to the position. He has held Yearling Manager roles at Tinnakill House Stud in Ireland and Sledmere Stud in Australia, where he managed yearling preparation and sales drafts for major Australian sales including Magic Millions, Inglis Classic and Inglis Easter.

Having worked extensively at thoroughbred sales throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, Tom has developed a particular passion for bloodstock and the identification and development of young horses - experience that complements Te Akau's commitment to excellence from the sales' ring through to the racetrack.

Since joining Te Akau, Tom has continued to demonstrate his horsemanship and breadth of industry knowledge, and his progression to Racing Manager reflects both his experience, professionalism and his understanding of the Te Akau operation.

Te Akau Principal Sir David Ellis said:

“Tom has a tremendous grounding in the thoroughbred industry and has gained valuable experience in so many different areas internationally. Importantly, we have also had the opportunity to see first-hand the contribution he makes here at Te Akau.

“We are passionate about developing talented young people and providing genuine pathways for them to progress within our organisation. Tom understands horses, he understands our operation, and he has a real passion for racing and bloodstock. We are delighted to see him take this next step in his career and look forward to the contribution we know he will make as Racing Manager.”

Tom Murphy said:

“I’m really excited to step into the Racing Manager role and continue building my career with Te Akau. Racing and bloodstock are huge passions of mine, so I’m looking forward to working closely with our owners and the wider team and getting stuck into the season ahead.

“One of my biggest highlights from last season was strapping Seize The Day for the Group 1 Sires’ Produce Stakes. Being part of those big race days is what makes racing so rewarding, and it was a very special experience to share with the Te Akau team.

“I really enjoy working alongside Mark, Sam, Reece, David and Karyn as well as our entire team, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue learning from them. I can’t wait to see what the new season brings for the Tangerine.”

Tom's appointment continues Te Akau's focus on developing talented young racing professionals and building a strong team for the future.

Congratulations Tom - we know everyone looks forward to seeing him thrive in his new role!