James Keane is an experienced horseman. He grew up riding ponies’ showjumping, eventing and dressage. Upon graduating from university with a degree in history and geography he embarked on a career to become a professional showjumper. In 2017 a lost bet in a game of pool led to his first experience on the back of a racehorse, the stone that started the avalanche. A few months later he arrived in Newmarket to be pupil assistant to Ed Dunlop. After a season at La Grange, James began a three-year stint as assistant trainer to Lucy Wadham.
James was then accepted onto the prestigious Godolphin Flying Start scholarship programme that took him around the world for 2 years, visiting 5 different racing jurisdictions learning from some of the best in the thoroughbred industry.
Upon graduating the Godolphin Flying Start James took a job as assistant trainer to Roger Varian, where he was directly involved in the management of 5 individual Group 1 winners, including a classic winner.
James then did a stint in Lambourn with multiple Group 1 winning trainer Charlie Hills before deciding to make the leap to train in his own name.
Throughout the course of his career James has experience dealing with every sort of thoroughbred, from 5 furlong sprinters to 3 mile chasers, at every level of ability. His knowledge, breadth and depth of experience with horses enables him to bring a modern, welfare-focused approach to training, emphasizing attention to detail in training and race planning. His professionalism, innovation and communication ensures optimum owner experience and satisfaction. His mission; to help every horse achieve their full potential.