Stokes Racing

Phillip spent his very early years with his parents on a cattle station knocking about with his brothers before discovering his passion for horses. His father had always had a close affinity with horses and it wasn't long before a young Phillip was in there helping his father break in and educate the stations young horses.

At the age of 15, a riding career beckoned and he soon found himself apprenticed to John Hall at Morphettville and later completing his time at Alice Springs with Viv Oldfield. After riding many winners, nature started to take control and his increasing weight made it difficult for him to continue riding so he made the decision to pack his bags and head abroad to broaden his knowledge.

His travels would take him to some of the world's leading thoroughbred training capitals including time in America with Bill Mott, in France with John Hammond and 10 years in Japan at Taiki Farm which has produced some of that country's best Group horses.

Whilst working in Japan he also met his lovely wife Ayumi who has been pivotal to the success and continuing support of Phillip’s endeavours as well as producing their two boys, Tommy and Kerrin who are very much a part of the team.

His local and international knowledge has become invaluable in the way he approaches his training methods and firmly believes in having a hands-on approach when it comes to his horses.