Wow - the good old EBF reaches a massive milestone in sponsorship and I bet you wondered who they were! Well done to Sam Sheppard who is a legend and the man who runs it in Europe
The European Breeders' Fund (EBF), since its creation in 1983 and the first contributions to the sport in 1984, has been an integral part of European racing as well as a major sponsor of races.
Now in its 29th year of sponsorship, the EBF is justifiably proud that European racing has benefitted by over €100,000,000 (one hundred million euros) from funds generated by the organisation. That must be considered a spectacular result for what is essentially a "self-help" scheme.
None of this could have been achieved without the consistent support of European stallion owners who pay the required EBF dues, and to the breeders and owners of horses bred outside Europe who make payments to ensure their horses become EBF eligible.
The EBF is enormously grateful to all those stallion owners and eligibility payers who have contributed to the magnificent total of more than a hundred million euros.
Sam Sheppard, the EBF chief executive, thanked the stallion owners: "The support we have had over many years has been superb.
"I think the EBF model has proved to be effective as well as standing the test of time, while some other schemes have been put under considerable pressure, or have foundered.
"The EBF could not have taken off in the way it did without the stallion owners and their input is immensely appreciated.
"In addition, our involvement with Breeders' Cup and the owner/breeders of US-sired stock has reaped dividends. Altogether, this has allowed the EBF to provide European racing with over €100,000,000 - an extraordinary figure."
Sheppard, who retires at the end of 2012 after joining the EBF at its start, added: "I have come across many wonderful people in my EBF role, most of whom dedicate a good part of their lives to the thoroughbred.
"Inevitably, during that time the EBF and I have been through some choppy waters but we remain strong, sustainable and looking forward to the future."
Sheppard praised the members of staff in the EBF's Newmarket office: "It is a small team, dedicated and expert at their jobs. They exhibit great tenacity in achieving results for the EBF. It is and has been a privilege to work with them."
EBF co-ordinating committee member Philip Freedman paid tribute to Sheppard. He said: "Sam represents all that the EBF stands for - integrity, internationalism and a healthy bloodstock industry.
"Not only does the EBF owe him a huge debt of gratitude, but so do all those who have been beneficiaries over the last 30 years - owners, trainers, jockeys, racecourses and breeders."
D G Van Clief, president of the Breeders' Cup from 1996 to 2006, commented on the healthy relationship between the EBF and the Breeders' Cup: "It has been nearly three decades since I discussed with Sam and Peter Willett the emergence of the EBF concept and how it would relate to the equally new Breeders' Cup.
"Due in great part to Sam's perseverance and diplomacy, that evening would prove to be the beginning of a longstanding relationship between the two organisations.
"I have enjoyed working with Sam and have watched the application of his tireless work ethic, passion for the thoroughbred and leadership qualities that take the EBF from a mere concept to an everyday reality."
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