A young entrepreneur's rise from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of horse racing is nothing short of remarkable. Ryan Tongue, now 28, began his career in the sport by serving tea to jockeys at Worcester Racecourse. His journey took an unexpected turn when he transitioned from riding to managing racehorses. With the support of investors from both the UK and abroad, Tongue established Deva Racing management company. Today, this thriving enterprise oversees over two dozen horses across various prestigious tracks. One of the most anticipated events on their calendar is the G1 Maktoum Challenge in Dubai, where one of their prized steeds, Imperial Emperor, will compete in a high-stakes million-dollar race. The acquisition of this thoroughbred last April for £62,000 has already proven to be a wise investment, generating excitement and anticipation within the racing community.

The foundation of Tongue's success can be traced back to his formative years at Worcester Racecourse, where he not only gained invaluable experience but also made significant connections. It was here that he discovered I am Maximus, who went on to win the Grand National under different ownership. This achievement stands as a testament to Tongue's keen eye for talent. Initially, he pursued a career as a jockey, attending The British Racing School in Newmarket before moving to Cheshire. However, after experiencing several falls during races, Tongue shifted his focus to racing management. This decision led him to manage horses for Mr. Grech and Mr. Parkin, eventually founding Deva Racing in 2019 with just three horses. Fast forward to today, the company boasts an impressive roster of more than 25 horses, including those competing in the highest levels of flat racing.

Ryan Tongue's story exemplifies the power of perseverance and adaptability. Starting from modest roots, he transformed his passion into a successful business venture. His ability to recognize potential in both horses and people has not only propelled him to new heights but also brought joy and success to many involved in the racing world. As Imperial Emperor prepares for its Group 1 debut, Tongue's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring professionals in any field, reminding us that with dedication and vision, extraordinary achievements are within reach.