Brian has gained extensive experience within the horseracing industry. Growing up in his home county of Tyrone, Northern Ireland, Brian spent his youth obsessed with all things horsey. During his teenage years it became apparent his future was only ever going to follow one path, so at the age of 19, with all the confidence of youth on his side he booked a one way ticket to Australia where he remained for 4 years. Hard work and sheer determination took him from ranch work to stud work in which he saw his natural horsemanship flourish.
From here he travelled to America where he worked as a Groom in Florida for the hall of fame trainer Claude (Shug) Mcaughey. His strict attention to detail and high standard of care for his horses did not go unnoticed and he was hastily promoted
from Groom to Assistant Trainer to James Gulick based at Arlington Park, Chicago. Brian’s love for American Racing was obvious, serving 10 years in the states before his mind began to wander to the Bloodstock side of the industry.
Exuding ambition he successfully applied for a position at the world renowned Highclere Stud, Berkshire. Owned by Lady Carolyn and John Warren (racing advisor to HRH The Queen) Highclere Stud boasts a reputation such that places it at the echelons of the industry. Very quickly Brian’s talent was spotted and he experienced a rapid rise to yearling manager and then stud manager. Brian spent 9 years at Highclere and is recognised as a key force in the success achieved by the Stud especially at the Tattersalls annual yearling sales in October, enjoying top consignor status countless times.
Numerous high class horses were under Brian’s tutelage. Among his pupils were undefeated champion 2 year old and triple Classic winner, Camelot (GB) and Postponed (GB) record breaking European champion and winner of 4 Group 1’s.
Brian is also a keen breeder in his own right. His first attempt proving a success with a colt called Galileo Gold (GB) who went on to be a multiple Group and Classic winner, and in 2016 won the 2000 Guineas and St James Palace Stakes.
Brian decided it was time for a new venture, and in January 2015 opened the gates to his own business – Brian O’Rourke Bloodstock Ltd. Since then, Brian could not be happier with the success enjoyed by the yard and hopes that with the teams unwavering high standards, passion and commitment will only go from strength to strength.
