How did you get into racehorse ownership?
I have always had the racing bug. I got into ownership in partnership with my parents in the Bloomsbury Stud, during the exciting days of Mrs Moss and her family.
What was your best day at the races and why?
Jupiter Island winning the Japan Cup, bred by the Marquess of Tavistock (father).
What is the biggest drawback about being a racehorse owner?
The levels of prize money, and not always having the time to go and see the horses run.
In your experience, which racecourse in Ireland treats owners the best and why?
From my limited knowledge, Leopardstown and Punchestown.
Flat or jump racing, which do you prefer and why?
Flat racing – I have had more success with that over the years.
What qualities do you look for in a trainer?
Very simple – their record!
What significance do your colours hold?
The colours have been in my family for a long time. We have evidence of the fifth Duke of Bedford using them in 1787 on a racing calendar, and they appear on a 1794 race card from the Bedford Races.
What horses do you currently have in training?
National Hunt – Bigbadandbeautiful with Gordon (Elliott), and then two with Nicky Henderson and one in France.
On the flat I have Victory Bond with William Haggas and Monty with Alain de Royer Dupré.
What’s next on the agenda for your horses?
What’s next on the agenda is very much up to the trainers!
Have you any horses to look forward to? (i.e young/unbroken horses?
Two nice yearling fillies by Medicean and one by Fast Company.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a racehorse owner?
Enjoy the good days, and remember them. It helps getting over the less good ones.
Andrew Bedford was in conversation with Olivia Hamilton