The Team

There are many aspects of being a great trainer, but one of the most valuable is having a good team. Kevin will be the first to admit that without the hard work and support of his staff, he would not be able to do what he does.

Jockeys

Phil Makin – one of the most popular figures in the weighing room, his character and work ethic has seen the Chesterfield native rise to one of the main jockeys in British racing. Natural talent saw Phil make his mark as an apprentice with a bright future, which culminated with him finishing hot on the heels of champion Haley Turner. Since riding out his claim his career has gone from strength to strength, earning his first century of wins in 2009 and tasting his maiden group success in 2010.

Phil joined the team at the beginning of 2011 and hasn’t looked back since. Success immediately followed and horses such as Bapak Chinta and Bogart mad it a partnership to follow. His hard work, skill and infectious personality has been influential to the yard’s success.

Jamie Spencer – widely renowned as one of the best jockeys in the world. Jamie’s wealth of experience and undeniable talent is invaluable, whether on the racecourse or working on the gallops. He has had great success with Kevin, but most notably when on board Desert Lord in the Gr 1 Prix De L’abbaye.

Steven Craine – a jockey that made the transition from national hunt into flat racing. Extremely calm during the race and strong in the finish, these skills have led to a successful partnership with Kevin.

Paul Mulrennan – fast becoming one the leading jockeys in British racing. Although highly regarded in the north, it was his association with Dandino that put him in the spotlight. Regularly up at Hambleton Lodge, his skill and horsemanship is vital to the yard’s success.

Apprentices

Amy Ryan – although the daughter of Kevin, Amy has made her own name in racing. A short stint as an amateur, culminating in the female title, led her into the deep waters of the professional game. After a fantastic debut season of 21 winners, her career blossomed. An association with long time friend Advanced has been a fruitful partnership, with victory in the Totesport Challenge Cup at Ascot a highlight.

Julie Burke – after starting out in Ireland, Julie made the journey over the Irish Sea and the winners came immediately. After joining Kevin late in 2010 she made an immediate impact with 16 winners the last few months of the year. A further 29 winners this year has caught the eye of many experts within the game.

Brian Toomey –talented young rider who holds a dual licence. Although primarily seen on the National Hunt circuit, his style and talent has brought success on the flat, he is a jockey with a bright future.

Paul McGiff – recently granted his licence, 2012 will be his debut season. We wish him the best of luck and hopefully he will be a name to follow over the coming years.

Staff

Assistant – Adam Ryan – the son of Kevin, he delved into the world of racing after his higher education. To gain some valuable experience he spent a year with breeding experts Coolmore. Working along side the team has enhanced his knowledge of the sport, hopefully enabling him to one day follow in his father’s footsteps.

Assistant – Joe O’Gorman – a former jump jockey, his knowledge and wealth of experience is vital to the running of the yard. Whether at the yard or at the races, Joe always plays a major role.

Head Lad – Steve Haworth – an integral part of the team, Steve oversees the everyday running of the yard. Whether its breaking in yearlings or bandaging a leg, his years of experience and horsemanship ensure the operation runs smoothly.

Head Lad – Raye White – after a career as a jump jockey, Raye went onto work for some of the biggest names in racing. Stints with M.Channon and J.H.Johnson has given him the invaluable experience that make him a great asset to the team.

Travelling Head Girl – Bev Golding - has been with us since 2009 travelling horses all over the country and abroad. It is Bev’s job to make sure the horses travel comfortably arriving at their destination safely.

“Archie” Mark Birch - Mark has been with us from the very start always finding a job to do. Popular “Cock of the North” several times having ridden over 1500 winners.

Secretary – Helen Blacker – has been with us since 2006 running the office, answering the phone and keeping owners informed of entries and declarations. Another important member of the team.

Bloodstock Agent

Steven Hillen – Steve has always been a keen racing enthusiast. After many years working in the racing industry, his vast knowledge of the sport landed him the job of assistant to Paul Cole. After much success with one of the best trainers around, he went on to pre training horses and later into the bloodstock game.

Steve Hillen has now built a reputation as being one of the best in the business and his ability to spot potential in young horses is second to none. Along with Kevin, they have created a formidable partnership. As a bloodstock agent, Steve’s objective is find the best horses from the thousands seen every year. Winners equal success and with horses such as; Bapak Chinta (gr2 Norfolk) Bogart (Redcar 2yo trophy) African Skies (gr3 Princess Margaret) Balmont (gr1 Middle Park) and many more, he has proved year after year that he is at top of his profession.