This year Peter and Philip Vela’s Pencarrow Stud is celebrating Leon Casey’s 25th anniversary as Stud Manager, a role he commenced with Pencarrow in 1988.

In that time, Leon has contributed to two Mercedes Breeder of the Year titles, four New Zealand Bloodstock Filly of the Year titles, a world class Group 1 double by Australasian turf star Ethereal, and a multitude of other accolades. Leon has also raised his own family at the Stud, with his son Michael born there 23 years ago.

Leon’s association with Pencarrow Stud began long before he took the position of Stud Manager as he led a young Vice Regal filly through the Trentham sale ring as a yearling in 1982. That filly went on to be Richebourg, a foundation mare for the farm.

Richebourg is the dam of Romanee Conti (Sir Tristram), the dam of Ethereal (Rhythm), and also of Grand Echezeaux (Zabeel), the dam of Darci Brahma (Danehill), all bred at Pencarrow Stud.

Pencarrow Stud Co-Owner Peter Vela says that it has been a highly successful 25 years for Pencarrow with Leon managing the stud.

“Leon has made a wonderful contribution to the development of the stud from the very early days right through to the success being experienced on the track and in the sale ring today,” said Peter Vela.

“It has been a pleasure having him be part of Pencarrow’s journey for all these years and we hope very much that he will have many more years with us yet.”

Leon’s contribution to the thoroughbred industry was recognised last year at Waikato’s 30th Annual Group One Dinner where he was presented with the Personality of the Year Award.