Michael Banahan, Director of Farm Operations at Godolphin's Jonabell Farm, has been named the 2019 Ted Bates Farm Manager of the Year, the Kentucky Thoroughbred Farm Managers' Club (KTFMC) announced.
“It is the committee's unanimous belief that Michael exemplifies all the criteria set forth for Farm Manager of the Year: excellence in farm management, service to the KTFMC, and service to the community,” a release from the organization read. “Michael takes a hands-on approach by going into the field with the mares, foals, and stallions. Michael has been a role model for many in the industry and gives back to the community that has given so much to him.”
A native of County Meath, Ireland, Banahan worked at Coolmore Stud in Ireland and at Ashord Stud in Kentucky before breaking yearlings at Juddmonte Farm and working with trainers Colin Hayes (Australia), Guy Harwood (England) and Bill Mott (U.S.). He began his stint at Darley/Godolphin 26 years ago, initially working at Dalham Hall Stud in Newmarket under Liam O'Rourke. Subsequently promoted to manager of Raceland Farm–Darley's original U.S. farm–he was eventually elevated to overseeing Godolphin's farm operations in the States at his current post.
Banahan resides at Jonabell with his wife Kathryn and their three children, Grace, Brian and Laura. He serves on the board of directors of Central Kentucky Riding for Hope and the Kentucky Equine Management Internship and is Vice Chair of the Gluck Foundation.
“I am delighted to hear of this fitting accolade for Michael,” said Liam O'Rourke, Director of Studs, Stallions & Breeding at Godolphin's Dalham Hall Stud. “He has been a key team player for the company going back to the early nineties. He is a person of great qualities–a leader, a talented and thoroughly proficient all-around horseman and an equally great family man. His in-depth industry knowledge has been gained from several working placements around the globe during his formative years. He remains as unassuming as ever and I cannot think of a more deserving recipient of this most coveted award for industry professionals.”
Godolphin Chief Operating Officer Dan Pride said: “Michael has served Darley and Godolphin for over 25 years in various capacities. He dedicates himself to not only manage and develop horses and people for our operation, but also believes strongly in giving back to the community and serves on numerous industry boards. He takes a keen interest in the Godolphin Flying Start program and works closely with the trainees during their time in Kentucky. We are very fortunate to have him on the Godolphin team.”
Jimmy Bell, President of Godolphin, added: “It is wonderful to see that Michael's peers in the KTFMC feel as strongly about Michael as we do here at Godolphin. His dedication to our horses, personnel, and farm sets him in perfect company with past recipients. Michael has been a valued friend and colleague during my tenure at Godolphin. He represents Godolphin well in all his endeavors.”
The KTFMC will honor Michael Banahan as the 2019 “Ted Bates Farm Manager of the Year” at its annual Dinner Dance on Friday, December 6th at Distillery Square in Lexington. More information about the Dinner Dance can be found by visiting ktfmc.org.
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