Louis Le Metayer’s lifelong connection to horses began in Normandy, France, where he was raised at Haras du Buff, a family broodmare farm managed by his mother, Edwige. His late father, Pierre Charles, was a pioneering bloodstock agent who led the export market for French National Hunt horses to the UK and Ireland.

After completing a Bachelor of Farm Management and Agricultural Science, Louis set out to gain international experience with some of the world’s leading trainers. His journey took him to stables including John Hammond in Chantilly, Paul Nicholls in the UK, Glen Kotzen in South Africa, and Todd Pletcher in the US.

In 2005, Louis joined Lindsay Park as a track rider during David Hayes’ celebrated return from Hong Kong. He soon transitioned into the bloodstock division, where he spent four years honing his skills in yearling selection and bloodstock management.

From 2009 to 2012, Louis worked in the bloodstock and marketing team at Arrowfield Stud under industry leader John Messara. This role provided a broader, more analytical perspective on the industry, complementing his practical foundation.

With this blend of hands-on experience, global exposure, and commercial insight, Louis launched Astute Bloodstock in 2013. Today, the company is recognised for sourcing elite racehorses and broodmares with integrity, attention to detail, and a clear long-term vision.

Over the past decade, Astute Bloodstock has consistently delivered high-performing horses from a highly selective annual intake of no more than 20 purchases. “Our enduring philosophy remains simple: we only recommend horses we would love to own ourselves.”