Natalie Jarvis, a woman with a Bachelor of Arts and a Degree in Accountancy, has found her true calling not in the financial world, but amidst the thundering hooves and boundless spirit of horses. Despite her academic qualifications, Natalie chose a career as a horse trainer, a decision that has led her and her husband, Luke, to establish a thriving training operation on the picturesque South Coast of Australia, in the charming hamlet of Moruya. This is where Thorotek Racing calls home, a place Natalie has meticulously designed to cater to the well-being and performance of every horse.
Natalie emphasizes the importance of an outdoor environment for all her horses. Thorotek Racing boasts exceptional facilities, including a grass track for training, access to beach and river swimming for rehabilitation and conditioning, and serene bushland riding trails that offer a peaceful escape and diverse training opportunities. The synergy between Natalie’s vision and Luke’s support is evident in the smooth running of their operation.
Reflecting on her career, Natalie cherishes the memory of an unforgettable Moruya Cup day, where her stable produced four winners in front of an enthusiastic audience of 130 clients. This triumph underscores the success of her training philosophy and the strong relationships she has built within the racing community.
Natalie’s lifelong affinity with horses began in her childhood days at Terrey Hills. Alongside her sister Stephanie, she was introduced to riding at a very young age. While her parents initially had little interest in equestrian pursuits, they have since become ardent supporters, keenly following Natalie’s racing successes.
Her educational journey saw her attend Macquarie University twice before pursuing her passion. A pivotal moment came with a visit to an open day at the Hawkesbury TAFE equine management school, where she received invaluable advice. This guidance led her to Muskoka Farm at Gunderman, where her formal education with thoroughbreds truly began. Further enriching her practical knowledge, she spent time at the Hawkesbury Valley stables of trainer Warwick Hailes.
A particularly formative experience was her time at the Ingham’s Belmont Park spelling and pre-training farm in North Richmond. It was during this period that she met her future husband, Luke, a significant milestone in both her personal and professional life. Natalie fondly recalls the horses that were instrumental in launching her training career, shaping her approach and instilling confidence.
In sourcing talent for her stable, Natalie regularly utilizes the Inglis Digital platform, a resource that has enabled her to discover and acquire many handy horses. This modern approach to acquisitions complements her traditional training methods.
The Thorotek Racing team, led by Natalie and Luke, demonstrates a willingness to compete at distant race meetings, provided the travel time does not exceed a five-hour window, ensuring their horses remain comfortable and unstressed. Natalie also acknowledges the crucial role of the jockeys with whom she has achieved considerable success. Despite her busy schedule, she remains actively involved in riding the majority of her horses’ trackwork herself, maintaining a hands-on connection with her equine athletes.
It’s clear that if racing hadn’t captured her heart, Natalie Jarvis would likely be managing a successful accountancy firm. However, like many who have been drawn into the exhilarating world of horse racing, Natalie is unequivocally “hooked,” dedicating her expertise and passion to the sport she loves.
(Banner image – One of Kattegat’s 7 wins since being purchased on the Inglis Digital auction. Goulburn 26/04/2020 with Shaun Guymer up – courtesy Bradley Photographers.)
