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The Board of Tamworth Jockey Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Jack Penfold to the position of General Manager commencing 21 February 2023.

Mr Penfold was selected following an extensive interview process which saw a large number of applicants submit their interest for the position. He is currently the Chief Executive Officer at Manning Valley Race Club (Taree).

Tamworth Jockey Club's new General Manager, Jack Penfold

A product of Tamworth High School, Penfold’s introduction to the racing industry began as a part-time Steward under the tutelage of former Hunter & North-West Racing Association Chief Steward, Shane Cullen.

Opportunities to further develop his skill set saw Penfold move to Sydney where he served a two-year cadetship with Racing NSW Stewards, before returning to Tamworth as Deputy Steward under Cullen.

In 2018, Penfold was appointed Chief Steward for the Mid North Coast Racing Association and was based out of the Port Macquarie office, gaining invaluable experience, before an opportunity came up to take the reins of Manning Valley Race in 2022.

TJC President, Keith Harris said: “The Board is pleased to appoint Jack Penfold to the position of General Manager and we look forward to his start in late February.

“Jack will join with a wealth of racing industry knowledge, and the fact he was born and raised in Tamworth, means he has existing relationships with locals and racing participants that he can further build on.”

Mr Penfold said: “My family and I are very excited on returning to Tamworth. It’s a great opportunity to be part of a successful team and build on the Club’s recent successes. I’m looking forward to the new challenge.”

Michael Buckley announced his resignation as General Manager in December last year and vacates the role following Saturday’s Ladies Day race meeting at Tamworth.

“We thank Michael for his efforts over the past two years. The Board wish him all best at Racing NSW Country," Harris said.

"It is a real plus to have Michael in Druitt Street (Racing NSW Head Office) continuing to oversee the Club and ensure we put our best foot forward.”