From the quiet backstretch of Worcester Racecourse to the spotlight in Dubai, Ryan Tongue has taken a journey as thrilling as any horse galloping down the track. A young man who once poured steaming cups of tea for jockeys on chilly mornings is now one of the key figures in the management of racehorses competing on some of the world’s grandest stages. His story underscores the magic of horse racing, where dreams zip by as fast as hooves on the turf.
The Humble Beginnings
Ryan Tongue’s path in the horse racing world began humbly. As a teenager, he worked in the weighing room at Worcester Racecourse, where he experienced the pulse of racing first-hand. It was here that he learned the intricacies of the racing world and caught glimpses of greats like AP McCoy, inspiring his passion for the sport.
Rising Through the Ranks
Tongue’s determination to succeed saw him saddle up as a jockey after attending The British Racing School in Newmarket. He found his rhythm at Oliver Greenall’s stable in Cheshire and rode during the summers at Dr Richard Newland’s yard in Worcestershire. However, fate had another path in store for him.
After enduring several falls, Tongue decided to hang up his saddle. But the end of his riding ambitions marked the beginning of a deeper involvement in horse racing. He pivoted seamlessly into racing management, entrusted by former partners Grech and Parkin to manage their horses—a decision that laid a strong foundation for the success seen today.
Discovering a Champion
It wasn’t long before Tongue’s keen eye picked out potential champions. Perhaps his most notable discovery was I Am Maximus, a horse he bought from Ireland as a three-year-old. This horse would go on to win the Grand National, etching Tongue’s name in the annals of racing glory. “For a 28-year-old to buy a National winner, that’s not too bad,” Tongue modestly reflects.
Managing Success
With the establishment of Deva Racing in 2019, Tongue’s team grew from managing just three horses to over 25, spread across the UK, US, and Dubai. This growth highlights not only the trust from international owners but also the strategic mind Tongue possesses.
One horse under his management, Imperial Emperor, will soon be galloping in the illustrious G1 Maktoum Challenge in Dubai. The thrill is palpable as this million-dollar race approaches, showcasing the boundless possibilities in Tongue’s trajectory from a racetrack tea boy to a force in the international racing arena.
A Global Racing Operation
The modern racing landscape is increasingly global, and Tongue navigates it with the agility of a horse thundering down the stretch. Deva Racing’s involvement in Dubai represents not just an opportunity for prestigious wins but also symbolizes the unity of horse racing’s diverse worlds—from the lush pastures of the UK to the sun-drenched tracks of the Middle East.
Lessons from the Track
Tongue’s journey teaches us about perseverance, passion, and the willingness to adapt. With every thunderous heartbeat of his horses on the track, his story gallops forward, promising future successes that are sure to be as exhilarating as the last.
Running a racing operation at Tongue’s level is like herding a group of thoroughbreds across varied courses. It requires not just a love for the sport but also an intricate understanding of each horse’s needs and potential. This is the kind of insight Tongue brings, carving out his niche in the racing world with every horse that crosses the finish line.
In a story that moves faster than the fabled I Am Maximus, Ryan Tongue’s tale is far from over. As he weaves his way through the racing world’s vibrant tapestry with a blend of hard-earned wisdom and youthful ambition, one can only wonder what chapter will unfold next in this remarkable journey.
