3 minute read

Syndicator and bloodstock trader Jen Campin is still on a high following the success of Wyndspelle in last Saturday’s Gr.2 Darci Brahma Waikato Guineas (2000m).

“This is a great result for the people who have come on board with me,” Campin said, following the win of the Iffraaj three-year-old, in which she is a part-owner and syndicate manager.

Joining Campin in the ownership of the talented colt is long-time family friend Neil Randles, from Brisbane, in addition to Shirley and Gary Hanna — along with Shirley's brother John Frew.

“Shirley got in touch via my Facebook page and we have become great friends,” Campin said.

Group One-placed as a juvenile, Wyndspelle has been plagued by wide barriers and bad luck in running, but put that all behind him when guided to a comfortable victory at Te Rapa by Jason Waddell.

The well-related colt has been set on a path towards the $1 million Gr.1 Vodafone New Zealand Derby (2400m) on March 3 by conditioners Donna Logan and Chirs Gibbs and he is rated a $9 chance.

Wyndspelle, out of the winning High Chaparral mare Western Star, was purchased by Campin in conjunction with bloodstock agent Phill Cataldo for $75,000 at the 2015 New Zealand Bloodstock Select Yearling Sale.

“Every year, Phill Cataldo and I prepare a list of horses we are keen to inspect. He knows what I’m looking for, which makes my job easier when it comes to inspections and making final decisions,” Campin explained.

“It is hard work and we do our best not to miss anything and always look outside the square. Phill has an expert eye and we have an excellent relationship that has stood us in good stead for years.”

Campin was again in action during the 2017 New Zealand Bloodstock Yearling Sales series.

“We had a very busy week from the Premier Sale through to the Festival Sale. We bought five yearlings in total and I couldn't be happier with our purchases,” she said.

Campin’s website celebrates the fact that she and her clients have been involved with over 36 Group One winners during her lengthy time in the industry, and she says that winning feeling never gets old.

“Oh, gosh no! I clearly remember the feeling I had when [late husband] Jim Campin and I won our first Group One race together. It is a feeling that you never forget.

“In fact, winning any race with a horse that you own or share in is so exciting.

“To see people thoroughly enjoying themselves — cheering, laughing, sometimes even crying — that's what racing is about.”

While proud of her Australian heritage, Campin is pleased to have long called New Zealand home.

“New Zealand has been very good to me. I’ve established my own boutique bloodstock company as an advisor, investor and syndicator here,” she said.

“It has been a labour of love, frustration, and the desire to succeed that has kept me here.”