Swettenham Stud’s Ellen Hyde has won a National Centre for Equine Education (NCEE) scholarship to the Irish National Stud next year.

The 20 year-old is one of two dozen students from around the globe invited to work and study at the historic stud which is home to Champion European sire and former Victorian shuttler Invincible Spirit.

The six-month course in County Kildare is world-renowned and Ellen isn’t the first Swettenham staffer to win the scholarship.  “I put my name down after finishing the NCEE course at Wangaratta,” she said.  “It’s very exciting and I’m lucky to be given such a wonderful opportunity.”

Growing up in Kilmore, Ellen’s parents had no background in racing but she began riding at the local pony club before graduating to dressage in high school.  That led to a stint at the Wingara agistment and pre-training operation located close to her home.

The travel bug bit last year when she went on work-placement to Widden Stud.  Part of the learning curve was helping prepare the stud’s yearlings for the Gold Coast Magic Millions.

“I’ve always wanted to be involved in the breeding industry,” Ellen explained.  “Coming back to Victoria was the next step in making it happen.  Swettenham is one of the leading studs in Australia and there’s no place here for anyone who isn’t committed.”

Hyde has been involved in all facets of stud life since arriving at the Nagambie nursery.  “My favourite among the horses is Master Of Design.  He has a lovely temperament and is just an amazing stallion.”

The Irish scholarship begins in February and Ellen is already counting down the days until she leaves.  “It’s a full-on course working at the stud and attending lectures,” she said.  “But I’m sure there will be enough downtime to travel and see the sights.”

If the future belongs to those who plan for it, then Ellen Hyde is well on the way after kick-starting her career at Swettenham.

– Karl Patterson