Having joined the Wexford Team as Assistant Trainer at the start of 2022 , Nathan has stepped into the role with gusto. With experience in the racing and breeding industry, he has been an excellent addition to the team. Having also been the recipient of the Irish National Stud Scholarship, Nathan has a wealth of knowledge in all areas of racing and has great passion and enthusiasm for his role!
We spoke to Nathan to find out more about what he enjoys about his role, his most memorable moments from his time at Wexford and more...
How did you first get involved in the racing industry?
I first got involved in the industry through my grandparents. At the time, they had a stud farm in Te Aroha. We would spend every school holidays with them on the farm working and learning about the stud.
Alongside the stud, they also trained a small team of horses. I quickly developed a great passion for the racing side and was hooked from a young age.
What is your current role at Wexford?
Assistant Trainer.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I enjoy working with the horses. It's great watching them come through and improve. The process of them coming into a preparation, improving and then eventually racing is fantastic. It’s a great thrill to have owners at the races again. I take great pleasure in being able to get success for our owners and witnessing the enjoyment they get from that.
And least?
None. I love my job.
What has been your proudest racing moment with Wexford?
It has to be Asterix winning the Group One New Zealand Derby. It was such a huge thrill. What the horse did to win on that day was unbelievable. It was a massive team effort.
Raw emotion and celebration, moments after Asterix won the Group One New Zealand Derby, 2022.
Captured by Racing at Race Images.
Do you have a soft spot for one horse in particular?
Dragon Leap - he’s such a dude and I love his personality. I can't wait until he races next season.
One horse in the barn people should keep an eye on over the next few months?
Uderzo is one in particular. He’s a really classy athlete and the world is his oyster going
forward.
We also have an Almanzor x Caminadora gelding. He's a young horse that has shown ability at home, it will exciting to get him up and going.
What is your favorite thing about Wexford Stables?
I love working for Lance and Andrew. They are such great people and have already taught me so much in a short amount of time.
We have a great team at Wexford and we all get along so well. The combined efforts of everyone contributes to the success of the stable.