Kitty Ashby

I took a gap year after completing my A-Levels at Mayfield, during which I earned The National Stud's Diploma in Stud Management. I then studied Bloodstock and Performance Horse Management for three years at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU), complemented by a work placement at Kingsdown Stables with Ed Walker Racing. 

During my time at the RAU, I also gained part-time experience working with bloodstock agent, stud owner, and syndicate manager Luke Lillingston at major Tattersalls sales, as well as at Ladyswood Thoroughbred Stud in Malmesbury, where I assisted with foaling down mares. 

After graduating in May 2024, I completed a yearling preparation season with Adrian O’Brien at Hazelwood Bloodstock in Newmarket, which involved attending all of the Tattersalls Yearling Sales. Subsequently, I worked at Trelawney Stud in Cambridge, New Zealand, where I was involved in all aspects of the stud during the end of the breeding season and the yearling preparation season. I also attended the Karaka Book 1 Yearling Sales and the Inglis Easter Sale in Sydney. 

In August 2025, I commenced the Godolphin Flying Start in Kildare, Ireland. Alongside 11 other trainees, I will spend time in Ireland, the UK, the USA, Australia, and Dubai. This is a fully funded two-year scholarship, founded by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and a dedicated supporter of the global bloodstock and racing industry. The programme covers a broad range of topics, including hands-on horse care, equine science, leadership, business, marketing, media, finance, and personal development. 

I am excited to embark on this new opportunity and deeply grateful to HH Sheikh Mohammed and the Godolphin operation for providing me with this unique platform to explore the thoroughbred industry and learn from industry leaders.