From Horse Racing Roots to Tech Innovation
Early Beginnings in the Horse Racing World The journey of any entrepreneur is filled with unexpected turns, challenges, and victories. For me, Marie Marks, CEO of BRIDL, this journey began in the vibrant, competitive world of horse racing. Growing up in Newmarket, UK, the so-called 'capital of horse racing,' my life was steeped in the equestrian world from a very young age. My father, a horse racing enthusiast, and my grandfather, a jockey and trainer, instilled in me a profound love and respect for horses. This environment nurtured not only my passion for equestrian sports but also sowed the seeds of entrepreneurial spirit.
Embracing Entrepreneurship Early On Even as a child, I was driven by a desire to carve my own path. My first venture into entrepreneurship came at the age of 14 when I started selling homemade horse treats. This endeavor was more than just a way to make money; it was a lesson in self-reliance, resourcefulness, and the importance of hard work. Although it was a small-scale business, the experience taught me valuable lessons about customer service, product quality, and the satisfaction of earning your own way.
A Global Perspective through Diverse Experiences My entrepreneurial journey took a significant turn when, at 18, I moved to Barcelona. This move was more than a change of scenery; it marked the beginning of a period of exploration and self-discovery. Barcelona, with its vibrant startup scene, was where I first dipped my toes into the world of venture capital and startups. Working for a business angel from Qatar, I was exposed to the world of high-stakes investment and the thrill of identifying and nurturing potential. This experience was invaluable, providing me with insights into the mechanics of successful business development and the importance of strategic investment.
Blending Passion with Profession Despite the exciting detours into the world of venture capital and startups, my heart remained firmly rooted in the equestrian world. The challenge then became how to blend this passion with my growing interest in entrepreneurship. The answer came in the form of BRIDL, a venture that aims to revolutionize equine sales by leveraging technology to create a transparent, efficient, and trustworthy marketplace. This venture was not just a business opportunity; it was a chance to address and solve some of the long-standing issues in the equine sales industry, such as transparency and accessibility.
Overcoming Challenges with Resilience The path to launching and growing BRIDL has not been without its challenges. From aiming to secure funding without a traditional business background to convincing industry veterans of the value of a tech-driven approach, the journey has tested my resilience, adaptability, and commitment to my vision. However, these challenges have also been the source of the most rewarding victories. Each hurdle overcome has been a validation of the belief that passion, combined with hard work and innovation, can drive real change.
Lessons Learned and Looking Forward Looking back on my journey from a horse-racing enthusiast to a tech entrepreneur, a few key lessons stand out. First, never underestimate the value of diverse experiences—they can provide unique insights and skills that set you apart. Second, embracing your passion can lead to meaningful, fulfilling work that goes beyond financial success. And finally, the path of entrepreneurship, while fraught with challenges, offers unparalleled opportunities for growth, learning, and impact.
As I continue on this journey, my goal remains to innovate within the equine industry, pushing the boundaries of what's possible and creating value for equestrians around the world. The road ahead is filled with possibilities, and I'm excited to see where it leads.
