The impact a racehorse can have is often underestimated. Lyndsey Bull, a recipient of the Stable Staff Award, is one of many who admire Frankel. Yet, the mere mention of the undefeated champion lights up her face with joy.
A Bond with Frankel’s Legacy
Frankel played a crucial role in shaping Bull's career. Watching him race with her parents became a tradition, and her admiration for the horse only grew stronger after his retirement from the track.
Now at 36, Bull developed a deep connection with one of Frankel's first offspring while working at Ian Williams' Worcestershire stable, where she spent two decades. Recently, she transitioned to a new role at the National Horseracing College, but her attachment to The Grand Visir remains unmatched.
Reflecting on The Grand Visir, Bull fondly recalls his early days at the yard. Initially a cheeky colt, he quickly captured her heart due to his Frankel lineage. She remembers, "He was full of energy from the start, and his spirit challenged me. I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. Riding a horse connected to Frankel still amazes me."
Though The Grand Visir is now cared for by someone else, Bull is lucky enough to visit him regularly, as her new role keeps her near her old stable. The horse, still racing at ten, continues to be a significant part of her life.
Wearing her new National Horseracing College uniform, Bull recently visited Dave Loughnane's yard in Shropshire. Between sessions, she reflected on her journey, including winning the Rider and Racing Groom category at the 2024 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards. Her years of dedication at Williams' stable, starting at the age of 16, were instrumental in her recognition. She shared her knowledge generously with younger colleagues, which ultimately earned her the nomination.
From Stable Rider to Mentor
Recalling the nomination process, Bull said she had been asked to discuss her best friend and colleague, Elly Ravenhall, who had also been nominated. Never expecting to be in the running herself, she was surprised when the email arrived. "I thought it was about Elly, and when I realised it was about me, I was completely taken aback. It didn’t fully sink in until the awards day."
The real shock came during the ceremony at Ascot, hosted by ITV Racing's Ed Chamberlin. Princess Anne and champion jockey William Buick were among the distinguished guests. Bull recalled how special it felt to be part of such a prestigious event. “I met everyone in my category, and each person was so deserving. When they called my name, I couldn’t believe it. I was overjoyed.”
Ascot holds special memories for Bull, as it’s where The Grand Visir gave Williams his first Royal Ascot victory. The location made her win all the more meaningful.
It doesn't take long for any conversation with Bull to circle back to her beloved horse. The Grand Visir, a product of Frankel's second breeding season, had quite the journey, moving between trainers and eventually landing with Williams. After some attempts at hurdling, he returned to Flat racing and won the 2019 Ascot Stakes, a victory that stands out for Bull.
Through the years, Bull had the chance to ride many memorable horses, including London Prize and Alfred Boucher, each with unique quirks and challenges. Her ability to adapt to each horse's needs made her an invaluable team member.
It was this expertise that caught the attention of a roving instructor at the National Horseracing College, encouraging her to consider coaching. Leaving Williams' stable was a difficult decision, but Bull knew it was the right time to embrace this new opportunity. "I started my career in racing through an apprenticeship at the college when it was known as the Northern Racing College, and now I'm back, but this time as an instructor."
At Williams’ yard, Bull had already taken on a mentorship role, guiding newcomers and helping them improve their skills on the gallop. Now, as an instructor, she is eager to share her 20 years of experience with the next generation. Enrolled in courses herself, Bull is learning the various ways students absorb information, allowing her to adapt her teaching methods to suit different learning styles.
Balancing Career and Motherhood in Racing
Bull is quick to express gratitude for her former boss, Ian Williams, who was particularly supportive during her transition to single motherhood. She recalls how Williams adjusted her work hours to allow her to manage both her career and her responsibilities as a parent. "When I found out I was expecting, I was overwhelmed with how I would manage. Ian reassured me, and together we made it work. I think more trainers should be flexible in supporting their staff like that."
Now in her dream role, Bull continues to advance in her coaching career while cherishing the recognition she has received for her contributions to the racing world. She hopes others will follow in her footsteps and encourages people to nominate deserving colleagues for awards. "These nominations are vital. They acknowledge hard work, boost confidence, and celebrate achievements."
For Bull, the future is bright, and she is eager to continue giving back to the industry she loves so deeply.