Chester Race Company appoints industry leader Gary Middlebrook as Non-Executive Director

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26 Feb 2026

Chester Race Company is delighted to announce the appointment of Gary Middlebrook as a Non-Executive Director from 1 March 2026. Mr Middlebrook succeeds Lisa Hancock on the Board, bringing a wealth of commercial and racing experience to the organisation.

Following an extensive selection process, Gary was appointed in recognition of his long-standing commitment to racing and his deep expertise in the thoroughbred breeding and bloodstock sectors.

Gary is an experienced thoroughbred breeder with a deep and enduring passion for horseracing and the bloodstock industry. His time on the Haydock Racecourse Committee has provided him with an excellent understanding of the operational and strategic requirements of a successful racecourse. This insight, combined with his commercial acumen, will bring invaluable perspective to the Board as Chester Race Company continues to build on its strong performance and ambitious future plans.

In addition to his racing interests, Gary has significant experience in property development and business management. His practical and balanced approach to both racing and commercial matters will support the Company’s strategic growth and contribute positively to its governance and oversight.

Ian O’Doherty, Chair of Chester Race Company, said:
“Gary’s appointment brings a rare and valuable combination of industry knowledge and commercial understanding. His experience within the racing community, and particularly his work at Haydock, will be instrumental as we drive forward our ambitions for Chester Racecourse. We are pleased to welcome him to the Board and look forward to benefitting from his insight and leadership.”

Gary Middlebrook added:
“I’m honoured to join the Board of Chester Race Company at such an exciting time for the business. The Company has a proud heritage and a strong reputation across its racecourses and wider operations, and I’m looking forward to supporting the continued growth and long-term success of the organisation both on and off the track. It’s a privilege to contribute to a team that plays such an important role in British racing and in its local communities.”

“The Company has a proud heritage and a strong reputation across its racecourses and wider operations, and I’m looking forward to supporting the continued growth and long-term success of the organisation both on and off the track.”