Ambassadors
At Plumpton Racecourse, our ambassadors play a key role in representing the spirit of our venue and helping us connect with racing fans, newcomers, and the wider community.
Alex Embiricos
I’m passionate about National Hunt racing and preserving its future - especially in Sussex, where my family’s racing roots run deep.
Granny Eileen Joel was the first woman to beat men in the Newmarket Town Plate (1925), followed by my mum in 1955 and me in 1984 - making us the first three generations of female winners of a single race. My grandfather owned Gold Cup winner Pas Seul, Granny owned Champion Hurdle winner Salmon Spray and St Leger winner Athens Wood, and my father owned Aldaniti, the 1981 Grand National hero.
I started training in 1994 as the youngest ever female trainer, with my first runner at Plumpton. I also had a Plumpton specialist, Ruth’s Boy, and once rode there myself - finishing 3rd.
More recently, I’ve reconnected with Plumpton through the Bob Champion Cancer Trust and our raceday in October. I also bring retired racehorse De Barley Basket to the stable - his story has captured many hearts.
I now manage my mother’s yard at Barkfold Manor, caring for Gary Moore’s horses during rest and rehab.
Baron Alco
We’re thrilled to join the ROR #HorsesForCourses initiative, highlighting the care and opportunities available to former racehorses after their racing careers.
Our ambassador is the brilliant Baron Alco, trained by Gary Moore, ridden by Jamie Moore, and winner of the 2018 BetVictor Gold Cup. He also won twice at Plumpton in 2016/17 before finishing 2nd in the Grade 3.
Now known as Barry, he’s enjoying a varied and happy life. His owner Diana describes him as “balanced, athletic, and always smiling. He has nothing to prove now, anything else is a bonus!”
Barry’s story shows the potential and versatility of retired racehorses, and we’re proud to have him represent this important cause. We can’t wait to welcome him back to Plumpton and share more of his journey beyond the track.
