When a racehorse is on the starting line, the only person the public sees associated with it is the jockey.
But in reality, training a racehorse is a huge team effort, with everyone doing their part to ensure that his or her competitor is at his or her peak.
Trainers regularly say: ‘We are only as good as our team.’
Every horse that lines up in this afternoon’s Randox Grand National has a team behind them, all of whom have done their part.
Here we meet the team behind the popular Corach Rambler.
1. Robert Hogarth (work driver)
Rides train companions of Corach Rambler during his workouts to ensure the horse is tested and put in top condition in his training program.
2. Morgan Cooper (groom)
Corach Rambler is one of the horses assigned to her to care for each day. Duties include grooming and mucking him out. She also helps saddle him up so he doesn’t bite his rider!
3. Jenna Baillie (Barn Manager)
Longtime member of the Russell staff overseeing a barn with 24 horses, including Corach Rambler. Responsible for feeding the horses in her stable and because of her close contact with them, she is often the first to notice problems.
4. Vicky Haughton (Head Groom)
Right-hand man to Russell, who takes responsibility for many veterinary matters the stable faces to ensure the health of the horses.
5. Eugenio Cillan Garcia (veterinarian)
Lives close to the stable and visits twice a week to resolve any equine medical concerns. Also available 24 hours a day for emergencies. Corach inspects Rambler once a week, but he has been a healthy horse that has needed very little veterinary intervention.
6. Carey Williams (water treadmill manager)
Responsible for running the water treadmill, which helps build core strength. Corach Rambler has been on it four times a week leading up to the National. Williams runs the equine physiotherapy center which also has heat lamps and a vibration plate.
7. Lucinda Russell (trainer)
The ultimate decision maker. Training since 1999 and has built one of the most successful Jumps stables in the country. Coordinates Corach Rambler’s training and liaises with the seven-member syndicate that owns the gelding.
8. Peter Scudamore (Assistant Trainer)
The eight-time champion jump jockey, who is also Russell’s partner, assists with all aspects of the stable and has been closely associated with Corach Rambler since he was purchased, riding him most days during his morning practice and doing much of his serious work.
9. Lori Walsh (Work Rider)
Experienced rider who replaces Scudamore when he is absent and when Corach Rambler has his more serious workouts.
10. Cameron Wadge (Assistant Coach)
Oversees the work of the horse and is also responsible for staff rosters to ensure the Russell stable runs smoothly.
11. Derek Fox (jockey)
Corach rides Rambler during some of his more serious workouts and also rides him during school sessions when he practices his jumping. Has ridden him in all 12 of his races since joining the Russell stable.
12. Gregg Crawford (blacksmith)
Gives new shoes to Corach Rambler every four weeks and equips him with his aluminum race shoes on Tuesday in preparation for the Grand National.
13. Judy The Labrador (team mascot and morale booster!)