John Ferguson Joins Jockey Club Council Bringing Wealth of Experience

The UKs Jockey Club welcomes a well-known figure to its council, taking over the position previously held by the respected Luca Cumani. Assuming the post is John Ferguson, a name synonymous with the sport of horse racing. Having donned numerous roles, from groom to conditioner, Ferguson offers a wealth of knowledge. His remarkable curriculum vitae includes a period as assistant conditioner to the iconic Michael Stoute, succeeded by a prosperous independent conditioning career that witnessed him train 287 National Hunt victors. Ferguson’s proficiency extends beyond the training yards, having also served as a bloodstock representative, guiding patrons on breeding and procuring elite racehorses. In 2021, he established Natalma Bloodstock, a firm specializing in bloodstock ventures with mares strategically located across Europe, the United States, and Australia. Adding another accolade to his name, Ferguson acted as a delegate for Darley and Godolphin from 1994 to 2017, esteemed racing entities owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the sovereign of Dubai.

“Horse racing has been incredibly kind to me,” expressed Ferguson. “To have collaborated with such extraordinary individuals throughout my profession has been an honor and a privilege. From my initial days as a stablehand, commemorating my first hurdle triumph at Hexham, to navigating the complexities of breeding, possessing, and trading horses internationally, I aspire to provide a comprehensive viewpoint to represent the concerns of licensed personnel.”

The destiny of equestrian competition rests with us, and we are dedicated to ensuring its longevity and excitement for future enthusiasts,” remarked Joe Saumarez Smith, the head of the British Horseracing Authority, as he enthusiastically welcomed Ferguson to their ranks. He highlighted Ferguson’s vast background not only in conditioning and raising horses but also in senior management within the field, providing him with a comprehensive grasp of its operations.