Darby Dan Ranch announced on October 20 the newest addition to its management team with the hiring of Stuart Fitzgibbon as stallion director. Fitzgibbon brings a wealth of international industry experience to the post, having served as seasoned sales manager at world-class facilities such as Ashford Stud and Coolmore, and as general manager of commercials at Castleton Lyons.
Fitzgibbon said: “I am delighted to be joining the Darby Dan team led by John Phillips. “Darby Dan has a very well-known history in the world of horse racing and bloodlines and continues to provide breeders with great stallions. Dialed and Tapiture That has been proven on the track. This is an exciting time to be a part of this venture with newer additions including Flameaway who got off to a great start with her first five-year-old plants, and Mutasaabeq who started his breeding career in 2023.”
Fitzgibbon’s extensive experience includes operations in Europe with Coolmore and in Kentucky with Ashford Stud and Castleton Lyons. Most recently, Fitzgibbon was the director of sales and customer development for Open Nutrition USA, a global leader in equine supplements, where he operates out of Lexington.
“Stuart is a perfect fit for Darby Dan for our goals going forward,” Phillips said. “His experience at Coolmore, Ashford and Castleton Lyons aligns with our desire to increase the quality and quantity of our warrior ranks. Stuart is a man of record, knowledge and perseverance. We are delighted with our association.”
This press release has been edited for content and style by the BloodHorse Staff.
