Episode 290: Bill Mitchell

Thoroughly enjoyed my first chat with Bill Mitchell since he left the training ranks in 2005. He begins by outlining his reasons for relocating to Melbourne in his final years as a trainer. Bill talks of his surprise decision to relinquish his licence and the establishment of his own bloodstock consultancy business. The multiple Group 1 winning trainer looks back on nine years as racing manager for the Segenhoe Group. Bill reflects on the excitement of migrating from England with his family at age 11. His father Major James Mitchell had purchased Yarraman Park Stud from legendary jockey George Moore. He talks of school days in Australia and the affinity he developed with thoroughbreds at Yarraman Park.  Bill reflects on his return to England where he learned the basics of training from Fulke Johnson Houghton. Then it was back to Sydney for a stint with Neville Begg. Still feeling his education was incomplete, Bill headed to the USA where he landed a job in the stable of decorated trainer Neil Drysdale. Bill talks of his humble beginnings as a trainer in Scone and his important move to Warwick Farm. He remembers with affection his first taste of Gr 1 euphoria- a win with From The Planet in the 1989 Epsom. Bill was one of several trainers to prepare the bold front runner Stylish Century. He looks back on some notable wins with a special horse. He acknowledges the deeds of several top class gallopers who contributed to his rise to the upper echelon of Sydney trainers. He makes special mention of outstanding horses like Livistona Lane, Kenwood Melody, Dignity Dancer and General Nediym. Bill elaborates on the progress of Mitchell Bloodstock, a company he formed fifteen years ago in partnership with his son James. Great to catch up with a gentleman of Australian racing.