Originally from Upstate New York, Richelle joined the Wentwood Grange team in October 2019 and she has recently been promoted to the role of broodmare manager.
Richelle has a bachelor’s degree in Equine Science and Management, specialising in equine reproduction.
We put a few questions to Richelle to find out more about how she came to work at Wentwood Grange and what she loves about our industry.
Where does your passion for horses come from?
My aunt and uncle had horses growing up, so I fell in love with them at a young age.
How did you get started in the thoroughbred industry?
I studied Equine Reproduction in college in New York and worked with Standardbreds for years. Moving to New Zealand was my first step into the thoroughbred industry.
What is your favourite part about working at Wentwood Grange?
I enjoy working for such a caring, family run business and getting to do fun things as a team, such as going to the races to watch our horses run.
What is your favourite time of year?
Breeding/foaling season! I love getting to foal the mares and then watch the foals grow.
What is your proudest moment or best memory since you started with Wentwood Grange?
Getting to take my first yearling through the ring! In America they have complex staff that put them through the ring so it was very rewarding to finally get to do this.
Do you have a favourite broodmare?
I have a few! I really like Vinzky, Storm Fronts, Super Trooper and Realta!
Who inspires you?
My parents! They have both worked hard to help me get to where I am and have been very supportive of me moving across the world.
Cats or Dogs?
Dogs! (I’m allergic to cats)
Fillies or Colts?
Colts, they usually have quite fun personalities.
If you could sit down and have a drink with any three people (alive or passed) who would you choose?
My Aunt and Uncle who have both passed but got me into horses and my cousin Stefanie who has stage 4 breast cancer.
Do you have any hobbies outside of work?
I enjoy going to the gym and lifting weights.
If someone approached you eager to enter the thoroughbred industry, what words of wisdom would you have for them?
Work hard, listen and learn and challenge yourself to keep getting better. It can be a tough job but it’s also a very rewarding job.
