Lib and Katrina Petagna’s interest in the industry started in 2003 and their first taste of Gr.1 success as owners came in 2004 with Clean Sweep’s victory in the New Zealand 2000 Guineas.
With a growing number of thoroughbreds raced, the family soon created the JML Bloodstock banner for their horses to compete under, and the distinctive blue, yellow and apply green racing colours were registered in 2006.
JML Bloodstock’s colours have been seen to advantage on nine Gr.1 winners to date. These Gr.1 winners comprise: Lucia Valentina, Tivaci, Crown Prosecutor, Sofia Rosa, Nicoletta, Atlante, Dal Cielo, Ugo Foscolo and Kalapour, with astute bloodstock agent Bruce Perry notably assisting on the selection of many of these elite-level winners.
The deeds of these horses would see JML Bloodstock consecutively recognised as New Zealand Owner of the Year on four occasions from 2015-2018. JML Bloodstock would also partner with others to celebrate further Gr.1 success, with shared ownership enjoyed with horses such as Alabama Express and Mission Critical.
Breeding industry commitments came naturally, with prized fillies being retained to breed and stallion shares secured or retained in Savabeel, Tivaci, Ardrossan, Super Seth, Alabama Express and Per Incanto.
The family were formerly part-owners of Blandford Lodge and bred and sold a select number of yearlings over the last few years under that brand.
As broodmare numbers grew, a new larger base was sought where the Petagna family could build their own brand. Named after a suburb in Wellington where Katrina grew up, Elsdon Park was born.
The next challenge involved developing the right team. To ensure this and industry-leading equine practices were put in place, respected horseperson Kerrie Cox was successfully sought out for the role of General Manager.
