Bull and Stackhouse: A powerful passion

Tatum Bull’s journey into the world of horses began almost before she can remember, but it was a work experience stint that truly ignited her passion for the animals. It was here she met Timmy (known as Cast Iron on the track), a horse who stole her heart and sparked her love for riding. “I learnt to ride trackwork on Timmy and fell in love with him, horse and riding in general,” she recalls.

Bull, 24, decided to pursue a career in racing, and began her apprenticeship in late 2019. With 113 wins under her belt so far, it is fair to say she absolutely loves her job. “I am horse obsessed. I don’t think you will find
many jockeys as passionate about horses as I am!” she enthuses.

Though she has faced setbacks due to injuries, Bull utilised her time off during her recent three-month recovery from a broken ankle constructively. She and Stackhouse acquired a property in Somerville where they operate a boutique spelling and agistment business. Tyville Park, spread over 20 acres, accommodates approximately 15 horses at any given time.

Their tranquil retreat acts as a haven for horses in need of rest, recovery from injury, or simply a change of scenery.

Bull takes pride in ensuring their equine guests receive ample love, care, and a well-deserved break from the rigours of racing. “We feed them, rug them, and give them a nice holiday,” she explains. “We basically give them a whole lot of TLC. Racing can get monotonous, so it is good for the horses to have a break now and then.”

In addition to horses in respite, they may also look after those at the end of their career. “We have one for Nick Ryan at the moment that has been retired, so I am getting it ready to sell on.”

Bull occasionally takes some of the horses out for flat work, but primarily they’re there to rest and recharge. When they return to the track, she finds great satisfaction in witnessing the progress of horses that have spent time with her.

Both raised on farms, Bull and Stackhouse are relishing their return to rural life after relocating from the city where they resided for a while. Balancing the demands of their business with their riding careers, their days commence with early morning trackwork sessions (Bull mainly works for Clayton Douglas), followed by race meetings as scheduled, before concluding with the care of their horses.

Recently back in the saddle after injury, Bull looks forward to regaining momentum and consistency in her riding career. “My goal is to continue riding after my apprenticeship, but I know it might not be that easy.”

Regardless of her future endeavours, she’ll never stray far from the horses.

“I had my first race back at Mornington in April but strapped Daniel’s horse that day for the Mornington Cup as well. Not many jockeys would be strapping other horses after riding, but I just love it.”

Stackhouse claimed victory in that feature race, but the couple opted for a low-key celebration, choosing a quiet dinner at a local restaurant before returning home to their animals. In addition to the
horses under their care, they share their home with a Shetland, two dogs, and two retired racehorses.

In addition to Timmy, Bull also has Polly (Till It’s Over), whom she formed an immediate bond with upon meeting, having ridden Polly since she was a yearling. Bull affectionately calls the 5-year-old her ‘pride
and joy’, even having her name tattooed on her. After strapping and riding Polly most of the time during her career, the owners gifted her to Bull upon her retirement in 2022. Despite their size difference – “she is huge and I am tiny!” – Bull and Polly have a special and unique connection. Competing in some showjumping competitions last year, the duo did quite well and more may be on the cards
in the future.

It’s this type of connection that drives Bull to work with the animals she adores all day, every day. From the nutrition to the veterinary to the everyday care, there is nothing about horses that fails to captivate her interest or willingness to learn, reflecting her devotion to her beloved equines