The world of National Hunt breeding has navigated turbulent economic waters, particularly evident in Ireland where a significant drop in broodmare numbers from 2006 to 2011 signaled a challenging period. However, a positive trend is emerging, with a noticeable resurgence in both the quantity of foals and the demand for “store” horses at sales. Seizing this momentum are Harry and Lorna Fowler, a dynamic young couple deeply rooted in the equestrian world, aiming to continue this upward trajectory from their historic Rahinston farm.
Harry, son of the late renowned trainer John Fowler and nephew to esteemed trainer Jessica Harrington, and Lorna, daughter of Scottish jumping stalwarts Johnny and Sue Bradburne, bring a wealth of experience and family heritage to their breeding operation. Their journey to Rahinston was shaped by personal tragedy and a shared commitment to the sport. The untimely death of John Fowler in 2008 prompted Harry and Lorna to leave their Newmarket-based careers – Harry at Tattersalls and Lorna as a racing presenter – to return to Ireland and support Harry’s mother, Lady Jennifer Fowler, known affectionately as ‘Chich’, at Rahinston.
“It turned Chich’s world upside down and it turned Harry’s world upside down,” Lorna recalls of the period following John Fowler’s passing. “Chich was incredible because she was here on her own most of the time while Harry was commuting. She was running this enormous farm, and the fact that she kept it going through the recession and didn’t have to make people redundant is a real credit to her.” Harry further emphasizes his mother’s invaluable contribution: “She was the one with all the horse sense. Dad was the trainer and the businessman but she was the brains behind the feeding, the medicines, chiropractors – everything to do with horse welfare.”
Harry and Lorna Fowler with Circle The Wagons and Dalamine
The Rahinston operation, with a lineage tracing back to Harry’s grandfather, Brigadier Bryan Fowler, had seen activity levels dip significantly during the recession and family upheaval, with only four mares covered in one period. However, over the past three years, the Fowlers have dedicated themselves to revitalizing the 700-acre farm. This year, they proudly have 25 mares in action, including boarders, a testament to their hard work and strategic vision.
Their renewed efforts are already yielding impressive results. The recent National Hunt season proved to be a landmark year for Rahinston, highlighted by significant victories at the prestigious Cheltenham Festival and Grand National meeting. A notable success story is Barters Hill, an unbeaten Grade 2 Aintree bumper winner, sired by Circle The Wagons, a mare who had been retired for four years. This turnaround was inspired by Rahinston’s head man, Dermot Fagan, and confirmed by their veterinarian, Kevin Foley, leading to Circle The Wagons being covered by Kalanisi shortly after Barters Hill’s triumph. Harry reflects on his mother’s legacy, stating, “My mother bred Barters Hill and I can’t help thinking she’s looking down over Circle The Wagons now.”
The Fowlers’ ambitious plans for Rahinston’s rejuvenation have also been significantly bolstered by the support of their close friend and racing aficionado, Alex Frost. Together, Harry, Lorna, and Alex co-own four broodmares, including Dalamine, the dam of Grade 1 RSA Chase winner Don Poli, and are actively involved in pinhooking young stock for upcoming sales. Their dedication to the demanding world of National Hunt breeding is evident, as Harry aptly puts it, “National Hunt breeding is very much a labour of love; I think all jumps breeders should be allowed through the Pearly Gates without question – but the reward when it all goes right is fantastic.”
Rahinston Farm and Stud, which is also home to the Summerhill point-to-point course
The success of Rahinston is not solely attributed to the current generation. Vital continuity is provided by the experienced human team, including Dermot Fagan, who has dedicated 40 years to the farm, accompanied by his son, Alan, for the last two decades. The farm also maintains strong connections to the previous generation of Fowlers through loyal friends and clients like Tom Bruton, Valerie Cooper, and Robert and Jackie Chugg. A heartwarming instance of this continuity is Woodland Opera, a son of the legendary Rahinston mare Opera Hat, who raced for a partnership including Valerie Cooper’s daughter.
Harry acknowledges the profound influence of his father’s long-time associate, Robert Chugg, on his career. This enduring connection is also reflected in their breeding lines, with mares like Mischievous Milly, a Listed-winning hurdler, tracing back to John Fowler’s purchases.
The history of Rahinston, originally inherited by Harry’s grandfather, Bryan ‘Frizz’ Fowler, a distinguished military officer and equestrian enthusiast, is cherished. However, the current focus is firmly on the future. Harry, an avid student of pedigrees, explains their strategy: “We inherited a few of the old mares but we’ve bought into new blood – we have our own ideas on the lines we want on the farm. We’re continually changing the portfolio and we also buy young stock to target the Derby Sale.” While National Hunt breeding remains their core, they are strategically expanding into Flat racing, aiming to establish a small but select band of quality Flat mares.
Located on fertile limestone land amidst renowned studs, Rahinston benefits from an advantageous geographical position. Harry, continuing his pursuit of knowledge and improvement, actively visits other successful breeders to learn diverse approaches. His role at Tattersalls Ireland, overseeing the UK market, further energizes his ambition.
With the Fowler family recently expanded by the arrival of their son, Johnny, the legacy of Rahinston appears secure. “Our aim is to leave Rahinston in a decent state for Rosie and Johnny,” Harry shares. Fueled by knowledge, dedication, and relentless hard work, the Fowlers are well-positioned to achieve their ambition and leave an indelible mark on the future of National Hunt breeding.
