Peter Murray, a passionate and experienced figure in the racing industry, has been appointed to the board of Thoroughbred Breeders Victoria (TBV).
His journey in the racing and breeding world began early, influenced by his father's interest in racing. Murray fondly recalls attending races at Caulfield, especially on Boxing Day which was also his father's birthday, as the ignition of his passion for the sport.
Having achieved business success in retail, he then purchased a small share in a filly named Porta Rocca with Danny O'Brien. Porta Rocca went on to win the Coolmore Classic at Rosehill, and was later sold to Darley and produced Monterosso, the Dubai World Cup winner. Her success was a catalyst for Murray's broad involvement in the industry.
"My early experiences with my dad and uncles at the races got me hooked on racing at an early age," Murray reflects. "And from there, I was able to take a small share in a filly, which led to more success and deeper involvement in the industry."
Currently, Murray is actively involved in both breeding and racing. He owns a number of broodmares that are currently kept at Three Bridges with the Liston family, who have been instrumental partners and advisors. Murray's operations extend beyond Victoria and Australia, with mares in Kentucky managed by Stone Farm. He also has a number of horses in training with Anthony and Sam Freedman, including the dual Stakes Placed 2YO filly Matisse.
Recently, Murray has added another couple of quality broodmares to his broodmare band – a Savabeel mare named Avebury, who will be bred to I Am Invincible; and Empress of Wonder, who will continue racing before commencing her breeding career. Additionally, he sold two weanlings, a Bivouac filly and an I Am Invincible colt at this year’s Inglis Great Southern Sale, with the latter fetching $300k.
Reflecting on the attractiveness of Victoria for breeding, Murray notes, "Victoria has the best racing and a fantastic climate for breeding. The number of stallions has significantly increased, and big farms are making substantial investments. The VOBIS program offers great incentives, making it an attractive place for breeders."
Murray is enthusiastic about joining the TBV board and is eager to contribute to its ongoing success. He praises the collaborative efforts with organisations like Racing Victoria and the Australian Trainers Association, emphasizing the shared goal of improving the industry in Victoria.
"We're striving to be the best," he says, highlighting the dedication and teamwork within the community. "I'm really excited to join the board of TBV. They've got some great people already, and it's an exciting position. The people that we work with, all the other associations, participants, stakeholders and racing clubs, they're all fantastic. We get on well, and we're all trying to improve what we can here in Victoria."
Peter Murray's appointment to the TBV board marks a new chapter in his journey in the thoroughbred industry, and he looks forward to supporting breeders and promoting the excellence of Victorian thoroughbreds. "It's a great opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of TBV and the broader breeding community.”
