Colin Tizzard is a name that resonates deeply within the world of British National Hunt racing. Known for his grounded beginnings and incredible journey from a modest Somerset farmer to a top-tier racehorse trainer, Colin Tizzard carved out a legendary status that few in the industry could match. His career was built on hard work, family support, and a passion for horses that began at an early age.
In this biography, we’ll uncover the remarkable story of Colin Tizzard — his rise in racing, family ties, business ventures, career highlights, and recent controversies. Whether you’re a racing enthusiast or a newcomer, this article offers a detailed and natural look into one of the sport’s most talked-about figures.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Colin Tizzard |
| Born | January 7, 1956 |
| Age | 69 years old (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | British |
| Birthplace | Milborne Port, Somerset, England |
| Profession | Racehorse Trainer (Retired) |
| Spouse | Pauline Tizzard |
| Children | Joe Tizzard (son), Kim (late daughter) |
| Training Licence | Active 1998 – 2022 |
| Known For | Cue Card, Native River, Thistlecrack |
| Base of Operations | Venn Farm Racing, Dorset |
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Childhood on the Farm
Born in Milborne Port, Somerset, Colin Tizzard was raised on Venn Farm, a dairy farm run by his parents, Leslie and Marjorie. His childhood revolved around farm life, country sports, and horses. He joined The Pony Club at an early age and spent much of his youth riding and competing in local events.
Youthful Passion for Horses
By his teenage years, Tizzard had developed a serious interest in point-to-point racing. He rode in amateur races, winning over 20 races before deciding to hang up the saddle. These formative years gave him both an appreciation for horsemanship and an understanding of animal care — essential qualities for a future racehorse trainer.
The Start of a Legendary Career
First Steps in Horse Training
In 1995, Colin began training two point-to-point horses for his son, Joe. Their success in eight races that season sparked something greater. Within three years, in 1998, Tizzard took out a full trainer’s licence and started his journey in professional National Hunt racing.
Combining Farming and Training
At first, Colin continued running his dairy farm while managing a small stable. Balancing both worlds wasn’t easy, but his dedication and early success enabled him to gradually focus entirely on horse racing.
Venn Farm Racing: A Family Empire
Built with Passion and Teamwork
Venn Farm Racing, located on the Dorset–Somerset border, became the heart of Colin Tizzard’s operations. The entire family played a role: his wife Pauline supported the day-to-day activities, his daughter Kim managed the office, and his son Joe became both a jockey and later an assistant trainer.
Expansion and Modernization
As success poured in, Colin invested in upgrading his training facilities. He added American barns, gallops, and other essential tools to turn Venn Farm into one of the UK’s leading racehorse training centres.
Major Career Achievements
Cue Card – The Fan Favorite
Cue Card was the horse that truly placed Colin Tizzard on the map. Winning the Cheltenham Festival Bumper in 2010, and later the Ryanair Chase, Betfair Chase, and King George VI Chase, Cue Card became a symbol of the Tizzard stable’s success.
Gold Cup Glory with Native River
In 2018, Tizzard’s horse Native River delivered his greatest triumph by winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup. This marked a career-defining moment and solidified Colin’s place in racing history.
Personal Life and Values
Strong Family Bonds
Colin Tizzard is a devoted family man. His wife and children have always been at the centre of his life and business. The tragic loss of his daughter Kim in 2022 was a deeply personal blow that affected the entire Tizzard family and the racing world.
A Quiet yet Commanding Personality
Though not flashy or media-hungry, Colin’s rustic charm and grounded nature made him respected among peers. His Dorset accent, practical wisdom, and no-nonsense approach won him admiration from both fans and fellow trainers.
Retirement and Passing the Torch
Joe Tizzard Takes Over
At the end of the 2021–22 season, Colin officially retired from training and passed his licence to his son Joe. While Colin stepped back from the front line, he remains active in an advisory role, offering guidance and wisdom from decades in the field.
Continued Presence in Racing
Though retired, Colin Tizzard’s presence is still felt across British racing. His legacy is now in the hands of his son Joe, who continues the family tradition at Venn Farm.
Controversies and Criticism
Involvement in Hunting Groups
In late 2024, Colin was linked to a hare hunting group known as the Dorset & Somerset Bassets. This involvement drew criticism from wildlife groups, highlighting a controversial side to the retired trainer’s life. While supporters defended it as part of countryside tradition, others called for investigation and reform.
Mixed Public Response
While some fans were shocked, others argued it does not diminish his contribution to horse racing. Colin Tizzard remains a divisive but respected figure in both sporting and rural circles.
Legacy of Colin Tizzard
A Lasting Mark on National Hunt Racing
From humble beginnings to the peak of Cheltenham, Colin Tizzard’s journey is one of grit, passion, and remarkable success. His achievements have shaped modern British jump racing, and his horses are remembered for their fighting spirit.
Family, Horses, and Heart
What truly sets Colin apart is his devotion to family. Even in retirement, he remains deeply connected to his roots — the same fields, gallops, and values that started it all.
Conclusion
Colin Tizzard’s life is a powerful tale of transformation, legacy, and hard-earned respect. From a dairy farmer in Somerset to a Gold Cup-winning trainer, he has lived a life most can only dream of. While his journey wasn’t free from controversy, the undeniable truth is that he made a massive impact on British racing.
Today, the torch has been passed to Joe Tizzard, but the name Colin Tizzard will forever be linked with determination, excellence, and a love for horses that stood the test of time.
FAQs about Colin Tizzard
Who is Colin Tizzard?
Colin Tizzard is a retired British National Hunt racehorse trainer known for training horses like Cue Card, Native River, and Thistlecrack.
What is Colin Tizzard’s age?
He was born on January 7, 1956, making him 69 years old as of 2025.
Where is Colin Tizzard from?
He was born in Milborne Port, Somerset, and has spent most of his life in the Dorset countryside.
When did Colin Tizzard retire?
He retired at the end of the 2021–22 National Hunt season, handing over his licence to his son Joe Tizzard.
What is Venn Farm Racing?
Venn Farm Racing is Colin Tizzard’s family-run training operation located in Dorset.
Who took over after Colin Tizzard retired?
His son, Joe Tizzard, who was formerly a jockey and assistant trainer, took over the licence in 2022.
What is Colin Tizzard’s biggest achievement?
Winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2018 with Native River is considered his pinnacle achievement.
Was Colin Tizzard involved in controversies?
Yes, he was linked to hare hunting groups, which attracted criticism in 2024.
Does Colin Tizzard still work in racing?
Though retired from training, he still supports and advises his son Joe at Venn Farm.
What is Colin Tizzard’s legacy?
Colin Tizzard is remembered as one of Britain’s top National Hunt trainers who built a racing empire from humble beginnings.
