Roisin Close

Prior to founding Chapel Stud in 2019, Roisin built up Bucklands Farm & Stud with the help of her family, friends and late partner Phil Statham. Over a 15-year period it grew from a ten acre small holding to a 100 acre farm, and from standing one stallion, Hellvelyn in 2011, to three stallions with the addition of Coach House and Pearl Secret.

TBA Award winner Roisin bought Bucklands Farm & Stud whilst working as stud groom at Tweenhills for 12 years. During this time she managed four stallions and up to 300 mares during the breeding season, as well as prepared yearlings and breeding stock for the sales.

Having started riding as a child, Roisin went on to study Equestrian Business Management. She gained her BHSAI and subsequently spent a year in the industry before going back to college to specialise in Stud Breeding Management.

The central part of the course was a year's work placement at Taylor Made Farm in Lexington, Kentucky. This proved to be the springboard into a passion for thoroughbred breeding. During her 18-month placement Roisin looked after many top quality horses, including User Friendly, Mariah's Storm and Sky Beauty to name but a few, and learnt many invaluable lessons in thoroughbred breeding and husbandry.

On returning to England, Roisin worked for Ted Voute Sales and Lanwades Stud before taking a position at Tweenhills Farm & Stud in Gloucestershire.