Charlie Johnston, the 35-year-old trainer at the helm of the renowned Kingsley Park operation in North Yorkshire, is navigating a significant chapter in British racing history. Taking over from his record-breaking father, Mark Johnston, in 2023, Charlie is forging his own path while honoring a formidable legacy. Mark Johnston, celebrated as the winningmost trainer in British racing, amassed over 5,000 victories, a testament to his unparalleled dedication and success. Charlie’s current season is shaping up to be a strong one, with over 130 winners, surpassing last year’s performance in both wins and prize money. This positive trajectory is encouraging, though Charlie admits that a few near misses at the highest level, with horses like Lazy Griff and Venetian Lace, have prevented it from being a truly “great” year.
Lazy Griff, who finished a commendable second in the Epsom Derby and third in the Irish equivalent, faced a setback that caused him to miss the St Leger. However, recent surgery appears to have been successful, and discussions for his potential campaigns next spring, whether over a mile and a half or further, are ongoing. The ambition to achieve Classic glory, particularly a Derby win, is a driving force for Charlie, fueled by his own experiences and the profile boost such a victory would bring to the Kingsley Park operation.
Admired Racing Figures and Favorite Venues
When asked about the racing figures he most admires, Charlie’s immediate answer is his father, Mark Johnston. He reflects on his father’s extraordinary journey, from training a handful of horses on a Lincolnshire beach to becoming Britain’s winningmost trainer, an achievement Charlie now appreciates more deeply from his position at the helm. Beyond his father, Charlie expresses admiration for AP McCoy, citing his unwavering will to win and his ability to race through pain.
Charlie’s favorite venue for a social outing is Glorious Goodwood, particularly on a fine day, for its exceptional spectacle and atmosphere, evoking fond childhood memories. However, if considering a race he’d most like to win, the Derby holds significant appeal, especially after his near miss with Lazy Griff this summer. The prestige and impact of a Derby victory are undeniable motivators for Charlie and his team.
Fondest Memories and Future Aspirations
Among his favorite racehorses, Charlie singles out Road To Love, a horse his father trained in the early 2000s. Charlie, who began riding out during that period, recalls a specific instance where implementing a front-running strategy led to a dominant victory at Glorious Goodwood. This personal connection and the discovery of a “key” to the horse’s success make Road To Love a memorable figure.
Charlie’s fondest racing memory is Subjectivist’s victory in the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot in 2021. By this time, he was deeply involved in the training operation. Subjectivist’s win was particularly special given a serious injury sustained earlier that year, making his triumphant return and performance at Royal Ascot a significant feat. He describes it as a great front-running ride by Joe Fanning and highlights the Gold Cup as one of the most prestigious races in the sport.
Proposed Changes to British Racing
If Charlie could change one aspect of British racing, it would be the fixture list. He advocates for fewer but higher-quality races, particularly on Sundays, which he views as an underutilized day in the UK racing calendar compared to international counterparts. He suggests that consolidating better racing on Sundays could allow for a blank day on Mondays or Tuesdays, when racing is typically of a lower standard and attracts less attention.
Charlie Johnston’s leadership marks a new and exciting era for Kingsley Park. With a blend of respect for his father’s monumental achievements and his own fresh perspectives, he is poised to continue the stable’s tradition of excellence while striving for new heights in the competitive world of horse racing.
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