Godolphin to establish Australian base with trainer John O’Shea

Jockey Paul Hanagan leads Soft Falling Rain, centre right, to win the Godolphin Mile in the 2013 Dubai World Cup meet, the world's richest horse race, at the Meydan race track in Dubai. AFP PHOTO/MARWShow more

The Godolphin operation, owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, will have a permanent base in Australia with trainer John O’Shea tasked with the job of head trainer.

Horses in O’Shea’s care will race in the familiar royal blue silks from August 1 onwards.

John Ferguson, Sheikh Mohammed’s bloodstock advisor, told www.godolphin.com, “Over the last fifteen years, Sheikh Mohammed has led Darley’s development and investment in Australia with incredible success and this announcement is a natural next step.

“Godolphin represents the crown jewels of Sheikh Mohammed’s horseracing operations and the establishment of a permanent presence in Australia is not only testament to his on-going commitment to the racing industry but also to the country at large.

“We have some fantastic horses in Australia, and with John O’Shea at the helm, we’re in good hands.”

O’Shea, said, “Godolphin is the most prestigious thoroughbred stable in the world and one of the most successful.

“His Highness is a true horseman himself and I consider it an honour to be given this responsibility.

“I look forward to the start of the season and to contributing to Godolphin’s continued global success.”

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