At the helm of one of Australia’s most iconic racing operations, Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott have forged a formidable partnership that marries tradition with transformation. From the storied grounds of Tulloch Lodge, they have built a powerhouse stable that continues to set benchmarks in elite thoroughbred training, seamlessly blending Gai’s legendary status with Adrian’s contemporary edge.
Gai Waterhouse, affectionately known as the First Lady of Australian Racing, is a towering figure in the sport. As the daughter of the late, great T.J. Smith, she inherited not only a stable rich in history but also an uncompromising passion for excellence. Since officially taking the reins of Tulloch Lodge in 1992, Gai has carved out a legacy uniquely her own. Her achievements are extraordinary: over 150 Group 1 winners, a Melbourne Cup with Fiorente in 2013, six Golden Slipper triumphs, and victories in virtually every major Australian race, including the Caulfield Cup and Cox Plate. Inducted into both the Australian and International Racing Halls of Fame, Gai is celebrated not just for her results but for her vibrant personality, meticulous preparation, and magnetic rapport with her horses. She remains one of racing’s most enduring ambassadors—both revered and widely loved.
In 2016, Adrian Bott joined Gai as co-trainer, marking the beginning of a new era at Tulloch Lodge. With a background steeped in bloodstock and management, Adrian brought a fresh perspective to the stable. His modern, data-informed approach to training and race planning added a new dimension to an already elite operation. Adrian quickly established himself as a trainer of substance and style—able to innovate while respecting the heritage of the stable. His influence has been pivotal in broadening Tulloch Lodge’s versatility, enabling the team to target a wider range of races across varied distances and jurisdictions. Beyond the track, Adrian plays a central role in strategic planning, owner relations, and syndication engagement, ensuring the business remains as commercially sharp as it is competitive.
Together, Gai and Adrian have crafted a training partnership that is the envy of owners and breeders across the country. Their shared vision emphasizes professionalism, transparency, and consistent performance, while their Randwick base and historic stables offer world-class infrastructure for conditioning both rising stars and proven champions. Their collaborative leadership has guided the careers of numerous Group-level performers, including Farnan, Converge, Alligator Blood, and Major Beel, solidifying their reputation as elite horse developers.
What sets the Waterhouse-Bott partnership apart is the synergy between two generations: Gai’s storied intuition and charisma, fused with Adrian’s precision and strategic insight. It’s a partnership that continues to shape the future of Australian racing—honouring the past while boldly charting new ground.
