The Team ::

John and Mary

John and Mary Mackie have been based at Barton for the past 20 years having spent a small spell in Malton.
John rode as an Amateur jockey before moving on to be Ian Balding’s assistant trainer at Kingsclere.
Mary also rode as an Amateur jockey and was crowned Northern Point to Point champion before breaking her back in a fall at Bogside. She is a very accomplished horsewoman who has a key role as both work rider and with the yard administration.
Daughter Joanna is at present training to be an equine osteopath but has time to work ride and assist at the races.

The Team

Mary’s sister Margaret Sessions manages the yard and deals with the general running of the daily routine. She is a key player as her experience and knowledge of all aspects of nutrition and the treatment of ailments is second to none. She was also an accomplished Amateur flat jockey in her day.

Brian Reel and Steve Harrison are two of the main work riders, both of which have ridden winners on the racecourse for the yard. Brian is an experienced schooling jockey and he is a great asset in the development and education of the jumpers whilst Steve is still riding as an Amateur on the flat.

Other members of the team include Jo Croston (Work rider), Carly White (who we are teaching to ride work) and the ground crew of Faisel Ejaz, Tom Ratajczak and Debbie Bayliss.