Darren Filkins

Thoroughbred Owner, CEO, and Agricultural Advocate

Born and raised in Bakersfield, California, Darren has been deeply rooted in agriculture and animal husbandry from an early age. He was actively involved in 4-H and FFA throughout school and grew up raising and showing livestock, horses, and mules. Many of his formative summers were spent riding alongside his father, a large animal veterinarian, where he developed an understanding and appreciation for animal welfare, preventative care, diagnostics, and post surgical treatment.

Darren earned his degree in Agricultural Business from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo after attending Bakersfield College. He played football while in college and enjoyed competing in steer wresting post graduation, as he started his career and family. In December 2022, he was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Harris Farms, where he quickly immersed himself in the business of California Thoroughbred racing. Under the mentorship of legendary owner and breeder John C. Harris, Darren gained valuable insight into lineage, breeding, conformation evaluation, and the development of young racehorses. He continues to work closely with the Harris Farms team to carry forward a legacy of stewardship in both agriculture and racing, continuing the legacy of John C. Harris.

As a Thoroughbred owner, Darren was able follow the successful careers of Harris bred Closing Remarks and Fashionably Fast and is a dedicated supporter of the California-bred program. Focusing ahead, it is the goal of Harris Farms to continue to breed and raise highly competitive horses that compete in California and beyond.

Darren is married to his wife Teri, they have four daughters and reside in Bakersfield.