Sue Bradburne has decided to draw stumps on her career as a trainer but has announced that she will become assistant and consultant to Nick Alexander.
Bradburne on the move after almost a quarter of a century
Fife-based trainer Sue Bradburne has decided to call time on her 24-year career at the end of this season and become assistant and consultant to Nick Alexander.
Bradburne's most recognisable horse was Blue Charm, who was runner-up to Bobbyjo in the 1999 Grand National, with other useful performers for the stable being General Chandos, Interim Lib, Off The Bru, On the Hooch and Sharp Reply.
Although predominantly a National Hunt handler, she also won the 2008 Cumberland Plate with Lochiel.
Bradburne, 63, is part of a racing dynasty with her husband Johnny, daughter Lorna and recently-retired son Mark all having ridden winners under Rules.
Wonderful Horses
"I have been so lucky over the years to have had great owners and some wonderful horses," she said.
"Obviously it feels like the end of an era, but I am really excited about joining the team at Nick's and our various meetings have established that we have a very similar approach to training and horses."
Bradburne will not be travelling far, as it is only 15 miles from Cunnoquhie Cottage in Ladybank to Alexander's yard near Glenrothes.
Alexander said: "I am delighted that Sue and her owners have shown this confidence in me and the team here at Kinneston.
"I am sure that the arrival of such an attractive bunch of young horses will enable us to accelerate the progress we have made over the last few years.
"Sue's experience will prove invaluable as she has succeeded at the highest level and another pair of eyes and hands will come in very useful."
Bradburne says all her owners are keen to continue their link and Cunnoquhie will also continue to operate as a satellite yard.
