Bloodstock People: Richard Lancaster - Army man with a commanding role in Shadwell's Classic-winning team.
Name: Richard LancasterAge: 48
Occupation:
Director of Shadwell Stud breeding operation in Britain
How, and when, did you become involved in racing?
I always loved racing as a boy-I rode in point-to-points-and dreamed of training. But my father thought I should do something else, so I joined the army for three years and ended up staying for 13, leaving when I was 31. I went to work at Sandringham, then had spells in America [with Lee Eaton Sales] and Ireland [Killarkin Stud] and did a December Sales season with the BBA. Then I came here as Bobby Dolbey's assistant in 1985, and when he retired in 1994 I was asked by Sheikh Hamdan to take over.
Who was your greatest influence?
Sir Michael Oswald, former manager of the Royal Studs, who told me I was mad to leave the army, but if I was going to be that mad, I could come to Sandringham. He has been a great friend and mentor ever since.
What aspect of your job do you most enjoy?
Seeing the foals develop from their birth into racehorses-I feel so lucky to be part of a big owner-breeder operation.
And least enjoy?
The paper wall that sits on my desk.
What was your best day in the business?
The day Nashwan won the 2,000 Guineas-it was such a fantastic performance by a homebred.
If you intended to spend 500,000gns on a yearling, whose opinion would you seek? And who would you want to train and ride the horse?
I have a great respect for James Delahooke as a judge of a horse. Trainer? Either Sir Michael Stoute or John Dunlop. Rider? At the moment, probably Kieren Fallon, or, failing him, Olivier Peslier.
What would you like to see change in the bloodstock industry?
What Peter Savill and the BHB are working so hard to achieve-the proper funding of racing, so we can look forward to developing the industry and having it on a sound footing, which will benefit everyone.
Who is the most underrated stallion?
Unfuwain, especially after Sunday.
Who do you most admire in racing / bloodstock?
As a youngster, the person I really admired, for the way he handled his horses, was the late Sir Noel Murless. He'd turn these big, backward horses into class performers; he had an intuitive knack.
What is your ambition?
To take Shadwell to new heights of achievement. And on a personal note, for sheer pleasure, to own a horse successful at the Cheltenham Festival.
What advice would you offer a newcomer to the industry?
Do your groundwork-there are no short cuts to getting the experience you need to succeed. Be patient, and build on your experience.
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| Title Annotation: | Sports |
|---|---|
| Author: | Hickman, Janet |
| Publication: | The Racing Post (London, England) |
| Date: | May 10, 2000 |
| Words: | 450 |
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