In this new series we sit down with a selection of Europeans making a significant impression in the Thoroughbred industry on foreign shores. First up, we have SF Bloodstock's Caroline Wilson.
Position: Team member at SF Bloodstock.
Original Hometown: Clontarf, Co. Dublin.
Current Hometown: Lexington, Kentucky.
Thing you miss most about Ireland (not including family and friends): Rugby, the ingredients of an Irish breakfast, and the Irish welcome.
Best thing about a career in the Thoroughbred industry: The lifestyle; careers in horse racing are for the most part incredibly demanding but I feel lucky that I live to work rather than the other way around.
Favourite racehorse: Too many to name, most recently Beholder. I was lucky enough to watch her win her last ever race by a nose over another queen, Songbird, at the Breeders' Cup in 2016. The atmosphere was amazing.
Piece of advice for someone starting out: Work hard, ask questions, admit when you're wrong, and find your people. I didn't grow up in racing and owe all of the opportunities I've been afforded to the people who mentored me along the way.
Hidden Talent: DIY home improvements.
Person in the industry you admire the most: Aisling Duignan, a role model for anyone wanting to forge a path in bloodstock. I have luckily been a recipient of her advice and support a number of times in my career.
Three dinner guests: John Messara of Arrowfield Stud, Andrew Harding formerly of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, and Roger Goodell, Commissioner of the NFL. I'd be interested to hear their thoughts on the future of racing in the U.S., especially given their collective experience at the forefront of lucrative sporting industries in other jurisdictions.
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