George Bolton grew up riding horses but his future in Thoroughbred racing became reality when he met Bill Farish, son of Lane’s End Farm’s William S. Farish III while attending the University of Virginia. He earned a degree in economics by 1985 and began his business as an investment advisor. George bought his first horse in 1989 through Bill Farish. His ownership endeavors remained at one or two horses annually for nearly a decade. Farish introduced George to bloodstock agent, John Moynihan who connected him with the late Jess Jackson and Satish Sanan in the acquisition of Curlin following his debut victory in 2007. Curlin’s career earned several Eclipse Awards including 2008 Horse of the Year, 2008 Champion Older Horse, 2007 Horse of the Year and 2007 Champion 3 Year Old Colt.
Bolton credits the leadership of Farish and Moynihan for the level and quality of participation he enjoys in the industry. The relationship with Stonestreet continued with a partnership on Graded stakes winner Astrology, My Miss Aurelia- winner of the Grey Goose Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies and 2011 Two-year-old Champion Filly and current racing interests with Barbara Banke.
George likes to maintain a tight, high-end “boutique” operation with partners enabling them to play in the upper levels of the sport and purchasing higher quality horses to compete at those levels. Sharing his love and knowledge of Thoroughbred racing with friends is not only fun and exciting but keeps the investment risk in check. Many of his partnerships include two to three friends or family as he believes there is nothing more enjoyable than involving family to share in the excitement of racing and the love of horses. Ownership has provided George with opportunities to enjoy and embrace horse racing around the world. He has raced in the UK, Australia, and Hong Kong noting that exciting new international racing festivals and events are developing continually. George has won three Eclipse Awards and a Cartier Award.
He keeps 10 to 12 mares for breeding and about 24 horses in training while purchasing new stock annually to replace those who may not fit his racing or breeding program thereby keeping the size of the stable consistent. George believes this is a business model that can be operated at any level. He has also kept interests in the stallions Astrology, Dominus and The Factor as well.
His advice is to connect with knowledgeable people, manage your stable as a business, move stock when necessary to keep operation numbers consistent and sell when the price is right.
