With mixed emotions, Marcus Corban has announced his resignation as Cambridge Stud General Manager, ending a near four decade-long association with the famous New Zealand nursery.
“It is with both sadness and pride that I announce my departure from Cambridge Stud,” he said. “After an incredible career managing the farm through a successful and iconic period in New Zealand’s breeding history, the time has come for me to explore other opportunities.
“I am appreciative to Brendan and Jo Lindsay for the opportunity to operate as General Manager for the last two years under their ownership. I am sure the team at Cambridge Stud will continue to honour and grow the farm’s legacy.”
Marcus Corban
Corban began his Cambridge Stud career in 1981 and that year the Cambridge Stud consignment at the Trentham Sale reached an aggregate of NZ$1 million.
Over the following decades under Sir Patrick Hogan and Lady Justine’s ownership with Corban as Stud Manager, the farm developed into New Zealand’s greatest thoroughbred breeding success story.
It was home to breed-shaping stallions Sir Tristram (Ire) and Zabeel (NZ) and grossing over NZ$250 million at yearling sales.
“The Karaka yearling sale in 2000 is one that was particularly memorable, with the Zabeel colt from Diamond Lover selling for NZ$3.6 million. It’s a record that has still not been broken,” Corban said.
“The Karaka yearling sale in 2000 is one that was particularly memorable, with the Zabeel colt from Diamond Lover selling for NZ$3.6 million.” – Marcus Corban
“It was satisfying to see him go on and win the G1 AJC Derby as Don Eduardo when trained by Lee Freedman.
“I am incredibly grateful to Sir Patrick Hogan for giving me my start at Cambridge Stud and guiding me into the leadership role as Stud Manager at a young age.
Sir Patrick Hogan and the breed-shaping Zabeel (NZ)
“I have worked with some amazing horses and people during my time at Cambridge Stud and formed many friendships that will last a lifetime. I look forward with excitement to the next stage of my career.”
Cambridge Stud Chief Executive Officer Henry Plumptre paid tribute to Corban’s yeoman service and achievements.
“A 40-year tenure, with 30 as General Manager, at any major thoroughbred nursery is a unique achievement. It’s something that Marcus has managed with great skill and tact,” he said.
“A 40-year tenure, with 30 as General Manager, at any major thoroughbred nursery is a unique achievement.” – Henry Plumptre
“I was lucky enough to know him well during his time with Sir Patrick and I have nothing but admiration and respect for the manner in which he conducted himself during that time.
“For myself, Brendan and Jo, his continued presence at Cambridge after the takeover in April 2018 allowed us the flexibility to get on with a major refurbishment of the farm, at the same time as running a commercial operation.
Under the guidance of Marcus Corban, Cambridge Stud has undergone major refurbishments over the past two years
“His intimate knowledge of the farm, its client base and local contractors was instrumental in us being able to complete a major renovation, cover 350 mares per season for the past two years and prepare two successful yearling drafts for Karaka.
“We will be sad to see him go, but wish him and Catherine the very best for the future.”
