Young Guns With Michelle Fogarty

Young Guns is a series where we endeavour to find out more about some of the young professionals in the industry. Today we speak with Michelle Fogarty, pedigree researcher in the bloodstock department at Weatherbys.

TDN: What was your path into the industry?

MF: My interest in Thoroughbreds didn't begin until after I had left school, so compared to many people, I am relatively new to the industry. I began an Equine Management course in Kildare and from there I moved on to study Equine Science at the University of Limerick, followed by time working at Lane's End Farm in Kentucky and Kiltinan Stud. The experience I gained, the people I have met along the way and the animals I have worked with throughout have led me to my present role in Weatherbys.

TDN: Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

MF: Working on farms such has Kiltinan has certainly encouraged me to get to where I am now. Donna Vowles and the team were fantastic to work with, and to be involved with mares such as Attraction and Seal of Approval was incredible. And of course, the bloodstock team here at Weatherbys have endless knowledge in regards to breeding and racing, so to learn from people who have spent years within the industry has had an important impact on my career development.

TDN: What does your role involve?

MF: The main part of my role involves producing sales catalogue pedigrees for auction houses such as Tattersalls, Goffs, Goresbridge and BBAG, to name but a few. Together with a database and library which stores books such as racing calendars and international stud books that date back to the late 1800s, we compile private pedigrees and bespoke private stud books for many large bloodstock operations. From my involvement in the publication of the Weatherbys Stallion Book to the Global Stallions App, the list goes on.

TDN: What challenges do you face in your role?

MF: Pedigree research is a specific role that involves concentration and attention to detail when it comes to producing pedigree pages to a high standard and on a tight schedule. Each pedigree we look at is completely different to the one previous, with many horses within a pedigree racing and breeding abroad, so it is important that the information on a catalogue page is correct.

TDN: What advice would you give your 16-year-old self?

MF: Work hard and don't be afraid to push yourself in the direction you want to take. As they say, 'what's for you, won't pass you by.'

TDN: What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the industry and how would you solve it?

MF: The bloodstock sales market is stronger than ever at the moment and continues to grow. Personally, I think it is difficult for people who are operating on a smaller scale or are new to the industry looking to produce, buy or sell Thoroughbreds.

Ways in which we can help support existing and new individuals is important. The EBF funding for owners, Plus 10 and the Tattersalls bonus scheme are great ways to attract people to join or maintain their position within the industry and more of these initiatives should be encouraged.

TDN: What do you think horse racing's perception is among the general public?

MF: There is a huge social aspect to racing. Many people look forward to a good day out and a chance to back a winner. Seeing racecourses host events such as Newmarket nights is a fantastic way of getting more people interested in enjoying racing with the added extra of getting to see a concert afterwards. Events like this can help the public's perception of racing and make it a more accessible sport.

TDN: How would you attract more young people into the workforce?

MF: It's a great industry to be apart of and the people involved in it are there because of the animal. That said, it is important to actively run seminars, where younger people can be encouraged and influenced to work and stay within the industry. Events such as The Godolphin Stud and Stable Staff Awards provide a great incentive for recognition and rewards within the workforce.

TDN: Who is your favourite racehorse of all time and why?

MF: As I said earlier, I am relatively new to the industry, but I have followed Lethal Force throughout his racing career. I remember watching him beat Society Rock in the July Cup and Diamond Jubilee S. Now as a stallion, I have seen some of his stock at the sales and they have been well received. I'm looking forward to seeing how his first crop of 3-year-olds perform this year.

TDN: Tell us something about yourself that not many people would know.

MF: Honestly, what you see is what you get with me.

TDN: What would you like to achieve in the next five years?

MF: It is incredible to have the amount of information Weatherbys have at your fingertips, so I look forward to continuing with researching pedigrees and increasing my skills within bloodstock.