The welcoming sign at Sun Hill Racing for the Phillip Makin string, April 2022.

A former established jockey in the northern circuit, Phillip Makin had a great career in the saddle. Enjoying successful spells with the likes of David Barron and Kevin Ryan, Makin achieved plenty in the saddle including a first Royal Ascot winner on Bapak Chinta in 2011 and then riding Blaine to win the 2012 Gimcrack Stakes at York. A memorable four timer of winning rides on the same day at York's John Smith's Meeting in 2009 was also a career highlight. A horrific fall at Redcar caused a premature end to his riding career after breaking a bone in his neck in 2019, but he soon made the natural step into training. Having started out in Easingwold near York, he had instant success with the likes of speedy juvenile Muker, third in the 2020 Windsor Castle Stakes at Royal Ascot, and the classy handicapper Lahore who landed a few class two races at York and Ripon amongst others. 
2021 has seen the yard up sticks and move to just outside of Leyburn where they share the land with fellow trainer Ann Duffield at Sun Hill. Making the most of the impressive facilities, of which many outside trainers visit to use, it wouldn't be a surprise to see the horses improve with some the vast array of exercise and rehabilitation equipment. Current stars of the yard include useful handicappers Politics and True Mason, the popular veteran Exchequer and the likable filly Brazen Akoya.
Star Horses
Politics
True Mason
Brazen Akoya