Hi! I’m Natalya Irvine and I’m 21 years old, originally a Lancashire girl however home is now just outside of Middleham, North Yorkshire. I have had horses all my life and grew up on my grandparents' farm. Showing and Pony Club used to be my main focus until I found a talent in running at the age of 9. I used to try to juggle both, travelling the country competing at international level, until I left secondary school and found myself in the racing industry.
At 16 I left home to work for Fred and Caroline Hutsby alongside studying at Moreton Morrell College. In my second season with the Hutsbys, I had my first ride for them before moving on and joining Tom & Gina Ellis full time. This is now my third season with the Ellis’.
I have my family-owned horse, Blazing Tom, with the Ellis’ to run again this season. He was a very good horse for me last season and hopefully we can keep his unbeaten record this time around. Alongside getting opportunities riding for my boss, I have the support of Max Comley and Clare Hart who I ride out for on my days off.
Unfortunately, I haven’t yet raced this season. I was due to ride at Hexham last weekend but unfortunately the horse didn't run and I wasn’t able to get to Larkhill to ride Knockerderry Flyer who ended up winning the Conditions race for Max Comley. Frustrating but that is racing!
I am looking forward to having a full season pointing (hopefully) without the disruption of COVID-19 and I would like to have a few more rides under rules in amateur races & Hunter Chases, as well as picking up a few spares along the way. Thank you for reading my blog, I will update you with another one in early January. Have a great Christmas & New Year!
Schooling Argot for Clare Hart at Station Yard
Schooling Dundrum Wood at the Ellis’ yard