Episode 542: Jack Bruce

Jack Bruce quickly made his mark after joining the Queensland training ranks in 2022. The NZ born 35 year old didn’t even contemplate applying for a trainer’s licence until he felt good and ready for the task at hand. Despite being the holder of two notable University degrees, Jack made up his mind early in life that horse training was his ultimate goal. He had early experience at Windsor Park Stud before gaining selection for the Godolphin Flying Start programme. He worked under a succession of leading trainers in his early years- Mike De Kock, John O’Shea, Bjorn Baker, Chris Waller and Maher/Eustace all contributed to his education. He started with only seven horses at Deagon on Brisbane’s outskirts but quickly made a statement. Today he’s working over 60 horses from stables at Deagon and on the Sunny Coast. Jack joins us on the podcast to talk about his exciting journey from the University of Canterbury in Christchurch to the professional training scene in Brisbane. He talks about the benefits of his University studies in managing a big racing operation. Jack talks about the routine he follows in running a dual stable operation. The trainer acknowledges the contribution of partner Lauren who plays a significant role  behind the scenes. Jack takes us back to childhood days in Hamilton (NZ) where his parents owned a lifestyle farm. He talks of his father’s connection to harness horses. He explains that his University studies were completed over two phases. Jack talks of work experience at the famous Windsor Park Stud. He talks about some of the stallions who were in residence during his time on the property. He talks about the thrill of gaining entry to the Godolphin Flying Start initiative which provided two years of invaluable experience. His first assignment was in Dubai with a legendary trainer. During his stay in Dubai, Jack met a young South African jockey whose career had begun in England. Later he got the opportunity to go to Dubai as a resident work rider for De Kock. It wouldn’t be the last time he crossed paths with Jean Van Overmeire.  Jack looks back on his first posting back home- a rewarding stint with John O’Shea who’d just taken over as Godolphin’s head trainer. He looks back on a four year working stint as Racing Manager for Bjorn Baker at Warwick Farm. Jack reflects on an invaluable twelve months with the Chris Waller operation. He assisted Waller’s Racing Manager Charlie Duckworth.   Then came a massive step up when appointed Manager of Ciaron Maher’s 60 horse Warwick Farm barn. Jack was gobsmacked. When he felt fully prepared to launch his own brand, Jack settled on Queensland as the most suitable venue. He talks about his low key start at Deagon. The trainer talks about his reason for launching a second stable on the Sunny Coast. Jack gives a special mention to the horse who provided his first win as a solo trainer.  He talks of a resolve to source tried horses from other stables. One of the earliest acquisitions, a horse called Axe gave him a stakes win at Toowoomba. Jack acknowledges several other “second hand” horses who’ve helped get his career up and running. He talks of three very successful seasons since becoming a trainer in Queensland. Jack pays tribute to the jockeys who’ve helped him to 185 wins in just three years.