Henry Plumptre resigns from Godolphin

Henry Plumptre has stepped down as managing director of Godolphin in Australia as an inquiry into the stable’s failure to report a case of strangles continues.

Plumptre, who has spent 16 years with Godolphin, said the issue had impacted on the organisation’s reputation.

“I have been away for a short period overseas and have had time to reflect on the ongoing issue of strangles that was reported to Racing NSW stewards two months ago,” Plumptre said in a statement.

“In view of the fundamental failure to report the issue at the time, it is the best option for Godolphin if I stand down.

“The reputation and integrity of Godolphin is the most important aspect of what we do and this issue has impacted on that reputation.

“I believe that the best years are ahead of Team Godolphin. The appointment of James Cummings ushers in a new era for the training operation and I wish His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and the whole team well for this spring and the future.”

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An inquiry into the presence of the infectious respiratory condition strangles in Polemic is scheduled to resume on August 4.

At the initial hearing, former head trainer John O’Shea denied he was told of the diagnosis last August.

Stewards adjourned the inquiry to study phone records between veterinary staff and others.

Joe Osborne, the new group chief executive of the global racing and breeding powerhouse, thanked Plumptre for his contribution.

“On behalf of Godolphin I wish to express our appreciation to Henry for the role he has played in the building of the Darley and Godolphin brands in Australia,” Osborne said.

A Godolphin statement said plans for a new managing director in Australia would be announced in the near future.

O’Shea resigned three months ago after three years with Godolphin and said he planned to return to Randwick as a public trainer.