Mark Johnston

Trainer Profile

Mark Johnston

Mark Johnston was born in Aberfoyle, Scotland on 10 October 1959.

Johnston graduated from Glasgow University as a veterinary surgeon and despite his limited experience in the racing fraternity, received his horse trainer's license in February 1987. He had worked briefly with trainers Tommy Craig, Charles Milbank in France and John Russell in California.

This didn't seem to deter Johnston, and in July 1987, he took his first win at Carlisle with Hinari Video.

In 1988, Johnston purchased Kingsley House, in Middleham, North Yorkshire, England, and has been training there ever since.

When he purchased the property, the economic recession was beginning, and he initially had to loan the funds to set up the grounds. After spending over ?500,000, the area was converted from a dilapidated 34 box yard, into one of the most contemporary training institutions in the United Kingdom, which now comprise of 67 boxes.

He was able to fill up the 43 stalls within 18 months, which was the cause for his survival during the recession, and the grounds now boast lunging rings, an on-site equine swimming pool, horse jacuzzi, three sand rings and an undercover six-horse electronic horse walker. And keeping true to his roots, some of the finest veterinary amenities are available at Kingsley House, including a Veterinary room with endoscopy and x-ray facilities.

In 1999, Johnston's continued achievements allowed him to extend the yard and erect additional stalls, which gave him the opportunity of stabling 147 horses.

Johnston's method of training was notorious for the horses' front running style and bravery in a finish, which was demonstrated by his most legendary trained horse, Attraction, which displayed his unique and winning style of training.

Mark Johnston - 10 Notable Horses Trained

Marina Park

Bijou d'Inde

Lend a Hand

Fruits of Love

Land of Dreams

Attraction

Shamardal

Mister Baileys

Double Trigger

Princely Heir