NATALIE GILS

A native of New Jersey, Natalie has been “horse crazy” since a friend first took her riding at the age of 12.

A certified barn rat by the time she was 15, Natalie learned to ride on the backs of off-track Thoroughbreds.

An accomplished equestrian, Natalie has more than 25 years of hands-on experience with various breeds of horses. She has ridden competitively and worked with some of the top hunter/jumper trainers on both coasts. A trusted barn manager, Natalie has developed individual programs for horses including feed, general care and workouts and has worked closely with veterinarians on injuries, illness and rehabbing.

For 16 years, Natalie worked as a graphic/web designer in corporate America, before striking off on her own and establishing Some Candy, Inc., a multi-media agency in 2016. A passion for horses, combined with her new-found independence fueled a move to Lexington, where she could enjoy the best of both worlds.

Since arriving in Kentucky, Natalie has immersed herself in the Thoroughbred world. Natalie has prepped yearlings, staffed the Keeneland sales for a boutique breeder, and she also had a stint under trainer Kenny McPeek’s shedrow, working with the likes of graded stakes winners Daddy’s Lil Darling, Princess Warrior, Signalman and Harvey Wallbanger.

Natalie has also worked many mornings with our trainers and their staffs and hands on with our Brilliant horses.

“Natalie doesn’t mind getting dirty,” Michelle Lovell said. “We really enjoy when she’s around the barn. She knows what she’s looking at and absorbs everything. She has a true appreciation for the horse and what it takes to get them where they need to be both mentally and physically.”

“I love young horses, learning what makes them tick, and helping them along in their development,” Natalie said. “In a racing prospect, I look for a well-balanced horse with a powerful hind end and a fluid walk. From foaling to aftercare, I am obsessed with every aspect of the racing industry. Brilliant Racing has been a very fulfilling endeavor. I love horses, design and social media, and I want to help make the experience interactive and fun for everyone.”