In today's instalment of 2024/2025 Rapid Reflections, we feature a quickfire round with Kane Jones, Bloodstock Sales Manager at New Zealand Bloodstock.
Favourite moment - racing, sales or breeding related - for 2024?
Kane Jones: Lim’s Saltoro winning the Singapore Derby and Triple Crown, becoming only the second horse in history to do so. He’s a horse I co-bred with my parents and sister, Lena. It was a massive thrill, and the subsequent flood of congratulations was overwhelming and extremely humbling.
And favourite non-racing moment?
KJ: Watching my two nieces Annabelle and Gracie grow up. They bring our family so much joy and are a wonderful reminder of what’s important in life.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
KJ: Don’t stress about things outside of your control.
If you could be someone else in the industry for a day. Who would it be, and why?
KJ: Chris Waller is someone I really admire. His journey from very humble beginnings in Foxton, New Zealand is truly inspirational. To run a successful stable at that scale requires a phenomenal level of people management and I’d be fascinated to see how it all works.
Chris Waller | Image courtesy of The Image Is Everything
Favourite day at a racecourse?
KJ: It’s hard to go past Karaka Millions Raceday at Ellerslie. It has grown into a real highlight on the New Zealand racing calendar and something everyone wants to be involved in.
What’s been the most challenging moment in your career, and how did it shape you?
KJ: Stepping into the role as Bloodstock Sales Manager at New Zealand Bloodstock has been a challenge I have really leaned into and enjoyed so far. Working under Danny Rolston was an absolute privilege but owning the role and putting my stamp on things is incredibly satisfying and a real work in progress. This industry is all about relationships and I quickly learned it’s usually not a one size fits all approach that works. Treating people as individuals is key and working out how to best communicate and strengthen relationships is an ongoing challenge but very rewarding.
Kane Jones | Image courtesy of New Zealand Bloodstock
Is there a particular horse you think about often? Why?
KJ: Alpha Pukeko was the first horse I had an ownership share in, close to 20 years ago. My father trained him, and he won six races, got to open class and placed second in the Listed Opunake Cup. He holds a special place in my heart and was definitely a positive introduction into ownership.
What’s the one question you wish people would ask you but never do?
KJ: Not a particular question as such but I do enjoy spending time with young and new industry participants. While I definitely don’t have all the answers, passing on the knowledge I do have is something I find incredibly fulfilling.
Can you tell us about a time when everything went hilariously wrong but somehow worked out?
KJ: A series of cancelled flights, hair-raising taxi rides and a questionable hotel made a return journey from Inner Mongolia one I’ll never forget. It was absolutely diabolical but at least I can look back and laugh about it now.
