The Australia racing industry has been stunned by news that international racing empire Darley has bought out domestic racing stable Woodlands – and with it the breeding empire of Bob Ingham.
The sale includes the studs farms where stallions Octagonal and Lohnro stand, pre-training establishments and over 1, 000 horses.
Bob Ingham has described the sale of his thoroughbred conglomerate as a “win-win” outcome for both himself and the international racing giant.
“Not only is it in the long-term interest of the company, it also secures the continuation of the bloodstock business and the employment of the team,” he said in an announcement posted on the Woodlands Stud website.
“Further it takes the business under Darley, a global breeding and racing operation, into a new and exciting phase.
"It’s a win-win for all parties.”
Mr Ingham said he hadn’t thought about selling until approached by Darley.
“The sale of the bloodstock business was not something I was contemplating,” he said.
“Once approached by Darley, I decided it was an opportunity that I should accept.”
Sky Channel's Andrew Bensley says this news has come as a complete shock.
He said industry insiders had tipped an expansion of the empire, in the few years since the passing of Bob’s brother Jack.
“Many of us thought it was a case they were gonna get bigger,” Mr Bensley said.
“It is a surprise that Bob Ingham has decided to get out.”
Woodlands Stud’s cerise colours have triumphed in most of Australia’s major races.
Ingham said he would continue to race horses and would retain the racing colours made famous by champions like Octagonal and Lonhro.
The racing and breeding empire also employs 230 people across racing, breeding, pre-training and spelling operations.
It is not known whether all staff will be retained