Tyler D Aitken: Upholding a Legacy in Horse Racing

Oct 6, 2024

4 min read

Tyler Aitken, born into a family renowned for their achievements in horse riding and racing, has continued this illustrious tradition through his own extensive accomplishments. His career, which began in Australia, expanded to England, and ultimately led to a successful business back in his homeland, reflects his unwavering dedication and passion for the equestrian and horse racing world.

Tyler hails from a distinguished lineage of horse racing family. His grandfather, Milton Donaldson, represented Australia as an Olympic show jumper, while his father, Stan Aitken, made his mark as a leading jockey, famously winning the 1973 Cox Plate. The legacy extends to his mother and cousins, who have also excelled in equestrian sports, including his cousin Timothy Bell, who won the prestigious leading apprentice award in Australia.

During his school years, Tyler gained valuable experience by apprenticing with top trainers in Ballarat, which deepened his understanding of the racing industry. He took a gap year to work in Western Australia before pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Science. To support himself, he worked at notable Flemington stables such as those run by Mike Moroney, Bill Cercy, and Nigel Blackiston.

Upon completion of his degree, he worked in partnership with Trainer Matt Smerdon for Smerdon Racing to learn about breaking and pre-training. His expertise further developed during a two-year stint in England, where he worked in Newmarket, focusing on breaking in thoroughbreds and Arabian racehorses for elite owners. He worked with Hugo Palmer for eight months during his working Visa.

Upon returning to Australia, Tyler established a business in Ballarat specialising in breaking, pre-training, and preparing horses for 'Ready to Run' sales. He has earned a reputation for his skill in re-educating horses, particularly those with behavioural issues, employing innovative and effective training methods.

In 2022, Tyler demonstrated his resilience and horsemanship by competing in the Mongol Derby, one of the world's most challenging endurance races. Completing the gruelling 1,000-kilometer course in just nine days, he finished fourth, further solidifying his standing in the equestrian community.

Tyler and his team

Mongol Derby

Tyler completed the Mongol Derby, the world's longest horse race, covering 1,000 kilometres across Mongolia. The experience began with thrilling excitement, turned cold and challenging at night, and ultimately became a mental grind toward the end.

Although he expressed no desire to participate again, the Coghills Creek horse trainer treasured the friendships he formed during the adventure.

On July 31 2022, Tyler crossed the finish line alongside fellow Australian Howard Bassingthwaight, finishing in joint sixth place after nine demanding days, swapping horses every 35 kilometres. Reflecting on the race, he emphasised the importance of the camaraderie over the competition itself. "Once I got it completed, it was about the people and close friends I made," he noted.

The race followed the ancient postal route established by Genghis Khan in 1224. Riders endured 11 hours of riding daily on semi-wild Mongolian horses, covering up to 130 kilometres while managing both physical soreness and mental fatigue. Tyler shared that the mental aspect was the toughest challenge, particularly in the final days when sleep was difficult due to the cold conditions.

Every 35 kilometres, riders stopped at horse stations known as Morin Urtuu for veterinary checks before selecting their next horse and continuing on their journey. Effective management of the horses was crucial, especially on warmer days that led to dehydration and elevated heart rates.

Tyler had sought advice from a previous Mongol Derby winner, who recommended that he choose larger horses due to his size. This strategy served him well, as lighter riders on smaller horses faced unique challenges. Throughout the race, some riders experienced falls and had horses run away, but Tyler found the horses to be more manageable than he had expected.

Despite losing his riding gear en route to Mongolia, Tyler received it just before the race began after borrowing equipment from fellow participants. The terrain was predominantly rocky and hilly, adding to the overall difficulty of the long-distance challenge.

Overall, Tyler Donaldson-Aitken’s journey through the Mongol Derby not only tested his endurance and skills but also strengthened bonds with fellow riders, leaving him with unforgettable memories from this extraordinary experience.

Cultivating Champions

Each new sales season brings a wave of promise and excitement at Tyler D Aitken Training, where participants across the industry—breeders, bloodstock agents, trainers, and owners—eagerly anticipate the unveiling of potential champions in the sales ring. The team takes immense pride in witnessing their valued clients reap the rewards of selecting yearlings that mature into winning racehorses.

To ensure a successful racing career, they break horses using proven strategies that lay a strong foundation for success. Their tailored pre-training programs enhance fitness through personalised exercise regimens, optimising performance and ensuring horses are in peak condition. Additionally, they specialise in re-educating horses with challenging behavioural issues, employing compassionate techniques that promote positive changes and long-term improvement.

Trackwork training

The New Training Centre

Tyler D. Aitken Pre-Training has moved to the former Sylvan Lodge Equine Centre in Miner’s Rest, just three minutes from the Ballarat Turf Club. The facility boasts existing amenities that support a comprehensive training program.

As part of the breaking-in process, horses spend about 3 to 5 minutes on the treadmill, which complements the 10 to 12-week training regimen that has been carefully developed.

The eight-horse walker is designed for safety, featuring a narrow design that prevents horses from turning around when startled.

Additionally, the paddock provides an excellent space for interaction among the horses, while the existing shed from the old rehabilitation centre offers further resources. A small sand pre-training box is also available, allowing the horses to interact and learn essential basics in a safe environment.

Tyler Aitken's comprehensive abilities, from horse selection and training to behavioural management, underscore his deep commitment to the sport and establish him as a respected figure in the horse racing industry. His journey reflects not only a family legacy but also a personal dedication to excellence in all aspects of horse racing and training.

Dreaming of racing glory? Prepare your champion with Tyler Aitken's comprehensive pre-training and education program!

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