Pollard to open stable in Brisbane

[Wandering Eyes]

Well-respected Kiwi horseman Todd Pollard will join the training ranks next month after securing boxes at Eagle Farm in Brisbane.

He departs Archibald Racing, where he has worked for the past five years and has led the Queensland operation for more than three-and-a-half years, producing consistent results for the operation.

During his time as assistant trainer, Pollard worked closely with Group One winners Mo’unga, Zaaki, Bois d’Argent and Sunshine In Paris, as well as a number of other stakes performers.

“I am very excited to announce that I am setting up my own training business, Todd Pollard Racing,” Pollard said.

“This has been a long-term ambition of mine, and I have worked hard to reach this point. I have been fortunate to gain experience with a number of top trainers, including the Archibald stable and Stephen Marsh.

“Prior to this, I was lucky enough to be part of the Godolphin Flying Start program from 2016 to 2018, which provided me with invaluable international experience in the racing industry. This included placements with leading international trainers Roger Varian in the UK, Phil D’Amato in the US and Bjorn Baker in Sydney.”

Born and raised in Matamata, Pollard’s interest in racing was sparked early through family involvement, with his aunt Liz Pollard breeding and racing several horses, including Gr.3 Taranaki Breeders Stakes (1400m) winner Rosetti Bay.

“My early interest was from my dad’s auntie, raising horses, and having a couple of handy ones that piqued my interest, but I really enjoyed getting along to the races when I was young and just enjoyed the spectacle of it all,” Pollard said.

“It’s great to be able to live my dream and become a trainer in my own right.”

Pollard is currently in the process of building his stable ahead of February’s launch and will attend all major yearling and online sales, including a trip home to New Zealand for the Karaka Sales, looking to purchase horses to fill his new operation.

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