Brighton Racecourse > General Info > Sir Stanley Clarke
Many racing followers will consider Sir Stanley Clarke as a major contributor to the 'commercial revolution' within the industry, following his first acquisition of Uttoxeter Racecourse in 1988.
Having built-up two successful businesses - Clarke Quality Homes and St Modwen Properties PLC - he applied his acumen to an ailing venue and transformed Uttoxeter into an award winning racecourse, with a reputation for customer service and innovation. This template was applied to future acquisitions, as Northern Racing developed a recognizable trademark of revitalizing under-performing racecourses.
Sir Stanley's interest in racing started in the 1960's and, at one stage, he even held a trainer's permit - enjoying winners at Fontwell Park a great many years before it was acquired by Northern Racing.
Along with his wife, Lady Clarke, he also featured prominently on the point-to-point circuit, with good horses such as Mount Argus and Captain Frisk.
Sir Stanley, will be better known, though, for his many top class National Hunt horses, including the Cheltenham winners Rolling Ball and Barton. But his finest moment came in 1997, when Lord Gyllene carried his well known green and black colours to victory in the Grand National.
Awarded a CBE in 1990 and knighted in 2001, Sir Stanley was also a member of the Jockey Club and served as a board member of the Racecourse Association for over ten years.
Sir Stanley's contribution to horseracing, to business and to charity is immeasurable. He was much admired and whenever at the races, would find himself surrounded by race goers, owners, trainers and racing officials - all of whom found him to be a remarkable man.
He will be fondly remembered by all at Northern Racing.
