Marcus Corban has announced his resignation as General
Manager of Cambridge Stud, in his 40th year as a key figure at the
Cambridge thoroughbred nursery.
“It is with both sadness and pride that I announce my
departure from Cambridge Stud,” Corban said.
“After an incredible career managing the farm through a successful and
iconic period in New Zealand’s breeding history, the time has come for me to
explore other opportunities.”
“I am appreciative to Brendan and Jo Lindsay for the
opportunity to operate as General Manager for the last two years under their
ownership. I am sure the team at
Cambridge Stud will continue to honour and grow the farm’s legacy.”
Cambridge CEO Henry Plumptre said “A 40-year tenure, with 30
as General Manager, at any major thoroughbred nursery is a unique achievement
and something that Marcus has managed with great skill and tact. I was lucky enough to know him well during
his time with Sir Patrick and I have nothing but admiration and respect for the
manner in which he conducted himself during that time.”
“For myself, Brendan and Jo, his continued presence at
Cambridge after the takeover in April 2018 allowed us the flexibility to get on
with a major refurbishment of the farm, at the same time as running a
commercial operation. His intimate
knowledge of the farm, its client base and local contractors was instrumental
in us being able to complete a major renovation, cover 350 mares per season for
the past two years and prepare two successful yearling drafts for Karaka. We will be sad to see him go, but wish him
and Catherine the very best for the future.”
Corban began his storied legacy at Cambridge Stud in 1981,
the year of Sir Tristram’s second crop to race.
That year, the Cambridge Stud consignment at the Trentham Sale reached
an aggregate of $1 million.
Over the following decades under Sir Patrick Hogan and Lady
Justine’s ownership with Corban as Stud Manager, Cambridge Stud developed into
New Zealand’s greatest thoroughbred breeding success story, standing
breed-shaping stallions Sir Tristram and Zabeel and grossing over $250 million
at yearling sales.
Corban reflects on his highlights over this period, “the
Karaka yearling sale in 2000 is one that was particularly memorable, with the
Zabeel colt from Diamond Lover selling for $3.6 million – a record that has
still not been broken. It was satisfying
to see him go on and win the G1 AJC Derby as Don Eduardo when trained by Lee
Freedman.”
“I am incredibly grateful to Sir Patrick Hogan for giving me
my start at Cambridge Stud and guiding me into the leadership role as Stud
Manager at a young age.”
“I have worked with some amazing horses and people during my
time at Cambridge Stud and formed many friendships that will last a
lifetime. I look forward with excitement
to the next stage of my career.”
