Once I am in the saddle I never willingly dismount, for whether well or ill, I feel better in that position. Michel de Montaigne, Essays
TEAM work is the key to any successful business and at Martin Hill Racing the cogs that make the wheels turn are a handful of people whose dedication is valued.
James March (full time work rider). James worked for ten years with the trainer Phillip Hobbs and had the privilege of being Monkerhostin’s groom. James is a true horseman - and his skill in restoring Bally Conn to his former glory has been the making of the horse. James is with us until he takes up his training as a blacksmith. James leads up most of the horses at the races. He can turn out to the highest standard and it is reassuring to have such an experienced person on hand at a race-day.
Cara Woollacott (full-time rider). Cara started her racing career with Martin Hill when she left school. She then went to the Racing School and followed this with 7 years working for Martin and then David Pipe. She brings this valuable experience and a caring attitude to bear in the yard.
Harriet Palk. In 2008 Harriet worked a summer for us and quickly got the racing bug. Harriet graduated from the Racing School in 2009 with flying colours and now works for us as a full time work rider. With an eye for detail and a strong interest in the physical well-being of a horse, Harriet is a natural horsewoman with a talent for feeling the soundness of a horse.
Matt Herbert. Matt is a full time work rider and amateur jockey. Like Harriet, Matt worked for us in 2008 every Sunday. This developed into a passion for racing, although he was tempted by the Cavalry for a while. He also graduated from Racing School in 2009. He schools the horses with James and has produced Detroit Red from the start into the racehorse that she is now. Matt has taken out his amateur licence and has already ridden Apex on the flat.
Graham Smith drives the lorry to the races.
Rachel Williams, Martin’s partner, does most of the book-work, organises the hospitality events and syndicate, works in the yard when she can and rides out the quieter ones.
Mark Partridge – Blacksmith
Kevin Pegler - Vet
Carolyne Allanson-Bailey – Bowen Treatment for Horses
