Long-serving Assistant Manager of Tracks & Grounds, Darryn Blinksell, has been promoted to the top job.
In his new role as General Manager of Tracks & Grounds he will oversee the day-to-day management and maintenance of the training and racing surfaces at Kembla Grange Racecourse, ensuring they meet the highest standards of safety, consistency, and performance.
“Darryn has served as the 2IC of Tracks and Grounds for 15 years and has extensive knowledge and a thorough understanding of the intricacies of the Kembla Grange surfaces,” The Illawarra Turf Club CEO Steven Keene said. “He has played an important role in major projects including the reconstruction of the Polytrack and installation of new B-Grass.”
Darryn knew he wanted a career in greenkeeping from a young age having completed work experience at Kembla Grange Racecourse while studying at Dapto High School. He started casual work as a barrier attendant and maintenance assistant before joining the track team as an apprentice in December 2003. In 2015 he was recognised as a rising star at the Australian Racecourse Managers Association Conference.
Darryn takes over from Dave Anderson, who has joined The Australian Turf Club as Royal Randwick Racecourse Manager.
Existing team member, Tom Howle will step into Darryn’s former role as 2IC. Tom came to Kembla Grange as an apprentice while completing Certificate III in Racing Services – Track Management through Racing NSW’s Team Thoroughbred Training Academy. Tom excelled in the two-year course and was nominated for the NSW Government Trainee of the Year Award. He was also one of just two apprentices selected for the 2024 Evergreen Turf VRC Spring Internship. This included the invaluable experience of spending a week learning from the Flemington track team in the lead up to Crown Makybe Diva Stakes Day.
“I have a skilled team around me and am looking forward to the new challenge,” Darryn said. “The track is in fantastic shape less than two weeks out from The Gong.”
