Change of pace and place for Mark Purdon

Champion trainer Mark Purdon is on the move from his Christchurch base, and is stepping away from full-time training.

The Purdon Racing website has announced that the 60-year-old is relocating to Matamata in the near future.

“The move is chiefly for personal reasons. My partner Barbara Hunter is based at Matamata and it will also mean a transition from training on a daily basis. My priorities have changed.” Mark said

Purdon will remain a partner for the immediate future with son Nathan at their Rolleston barn but largely in an advisory role as consultant and supervisor of horses shifting north as necessary.

“I have felt that physically it has become a little harder and maybe I have lost that sharp edge of the enthusiasm you need to run a big team. Nathan is going so well in his own right, and Michael too. It is the right time to step back from a hands-on role”

“I have had a great innings and value the help from many people in a sport that has been very good to me and such a big part of my life. That will continue on a reduced scale but it’s time now for the next chapter with Barbara and I am looking forward to what that brings”

A distinguished veterinary surgeon originally from Canada, Hunter is a partner in the elite New Zealand horse treatment centre, Matamata Veterinary Services, where the pair first met.

Mark Purdon's All Stars operation, in all its iterations in recent years, has won 14 of the last 23 training premierships.

To see the Purdon Racing release click here