Georgina Baxter’s life is a testament to an unwavering passion for Thoroughbred racing, a journey that began in the renowned racing hub of Lambourn, England. Despite a family rich in racing history—with a grandfather who was a jockey and trainer, a great-grandfather who was a steeplechase trainer, and a father, Geoffrey Baxter, a jockey who famously competed against the immortal Shergar—Georgina’s early interest in the sport was met with discouragement. However, the allure of horses proved too strong to resist. From her first pony at the tender age of two, Shandie, to learning to ride on Tommy at four, Baxter was captivated. Even as her father, who entered racing due to his small stature, and other family members encouraged her to pursue different paths, Baxter found herself drawn back to the track. She describes the pull of racing as akin to a drug, a lifestyle that always beckons.
Early Immersions and Global Experiences
Baxter’s childhood was steeped in the world of racing. Her mother also galloped horses, and trainers would take young Georgina to the gallops, where she’d be “legged up” onto horses like Benesty, a mare whose scent she can still recall years later. These early experiences solidified her connection to horses, creating lasting sensory memories. Her father’s career as a jockey also provided Baxter with unique opportunities to travel and experience different cultures. During the winter months, she accompanied him to countries like India, Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados. These travels exposed her to prominent figures in the sport, such as Walter Swinburn, and allowed her to interact with a diverse range of people, even trading a Mars bar for a chance to watch the movie E.T. in India.
A Flourishing Career in the Saddle
At eighteen, Baxter took her first point-to-point race, showcasing her developing poise and horsemanship despite facing more experienced riders. Although her mother initially had reservations about her riding over jumps, Baxter’s passion led her to work as a veterinary assistant for two and a half years. However, the inherent desire to be closer to the horses eventually guided her to rehabilitation work. It was at John Porter’s yard that her destiny truly began to unfold, as the facility transitioned into a point-to-point stable. Her early riding experiences included a memorable win on an aging horse named Lordy Boy, who “literally ran off with me,” resulting in a victory that left her mother a “nervous wreck” but showcased Baxter’s innate ability to adapt and ride with the horse.
Baxter’s career progressed with significant roles, including a four-and-a-half-year stint as an assistant to Barry Hills, a prominent figure in racing whose sons also became successful trainers and jockeys. This period provided her with a robust foundation, overseeing more than 100 horses. Her journey then took her to Dubai, where she spent four and a half years, working for trainers like Michael Stoute and Bill Mather. It was in Dubai that she had the opportunity to ride in amateur races, achieving a surprising victory on a horse named High Regard, which had never won before. This success led to consecutive wins and highlighted her talent for getting the best out of horses.
Her path eventually led to the United States, where she initially worked for Thoroughbred trainer Michael Matz. This period included galloping Barbaro, a horse that captured the nation’s imagination, and being part of Team Matz during the difficult aftermath of the 2006 Preakness. Baxter later honed her skills with conditioner Eddie Kenneally, where she was the regular rider for stakes winner Kelly’s Landing. She also had the invaluable experience of breezing horses like the 2010 Breeders’ Cup Classic winner Blame and Star Guitar. Venturing into timber racing, Baxter adapted to a different style of riding, learning to navigate fences with precision.
Embracing the Role of Trainer
While Baxter always envisioned herself as a rider, life presented her with the opportunity to step into a more significant role. Relocating to Florida, she took over the barn from Kirk Ziadie’s father, Ralph, in 2018. This move was driven by a sense of responsibility to her barn “family,” as she recognized that without her stepping up, the horses would be dispersed and the people would lose their jobs. This transition marked a new phase, demanding a different set of skills and a deeper commitment. Baxter acknowledges the challenges, stating that the people and the politics are often more difficult than managing the horses themselves.
A Deep Connection with Thoroughbreds
Baxter’s philosophy is deeply rooted in her connection with the horses. She emphasizes that “happy horses win races” and that the horses are more than just athletes; they are family. This belief system shapes her training approach, which often involves giving horses ample time to develop rather than rushing them back into competition. A prime example of this is her relationship with Pay Any Price, a horse with a “horrible reputation” who became a stakes winner and set North American and World records. Baxter is the only rider who can successfully handle this challenging gelding, a testament to their unique bond. She also works with other talented horses like Quijote and the remarkable filly Lady’s Island, known as the “Queen of the Slop” for her prowess on off-tracks.
Baxter’s passion extends beyond individual horses to the sport as a whole. She sees herself as an ambassador, aiming to ignite interest and convey the deep love and dedication that goes into Thoroughbred racing. She believes that the stories of horses like Pay Any Price and the legendary Seabiscuit can inspire people and highlight the unique lifestyle and tradition of the sport, which she fears could be lost if not properly appreciated. Her dedication is evident in her commitment to the well-being of her horses and the people who work alongside her, viewing them as an extended family.
