In this new series we sit down with a selection of Europeans making a significant impression in the Thoroughbred industry on foreign shores. Today we hear from Sophie Doyle.
Position: Professional Jockey.
Original Hometown: Lambourn, Berkshire. I was born in Cambridge and moved at age six to Lambourn until I moved to the U.S.
Current Hometown: I own a home in Lexington, Kentucky but I divide my time throughout the year between Kentucky, New Orleans and Chicago depending on the racing season.
Thing you miss most about the UK (not including family and friends): Horse riding in the countryside and riding through the woods. I'm a true country girl at heart.
Hidden Talent: Dancing. I used to be in a contemporary dance company.
Person in the industry you admire the most: Any female jockey, it takes a lot of skill, determination and a strong mindset in this game to survive.
Three dinner guests: Being a family girl, without doubt my mum Jacqueline, my brother James and my grandparents. For one last dinner to hear my grandfather Joe's great stories and jokes and also to see the love my Mor-Mor (Norwegian for grandmother) still had for him after 60 plus years together, still to their last days together he made her laugh. True Love.
Best thing about a career in the Thoroughbred industry: I get to work every day with the most amazing athletes around the world, the Thoroughbred.
Favourite racehorse: In the U.S. it would be Street Band, my first Group 1 winner. And in the UK the great Desert Orchid.
Piece of advice for someone starting out: Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life, tip toe if you must but take the step. Your speed doesn't matter forward is forward. Never give up on your dreams, anything is possible when you put your mind to it.
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