In my first blog, I spoke about my background and how I got into racing. One thing I touched on briefly was what I’ve always enjoyed most about the sport, and it’s something that’s probably worth expanding on.
People often ask what my favourite part of horse racing is. Usually, they expect me to say the winners or the big, high-profile race days. But for me, it’s never really been that. The two things I’ve always enjoyed most are the people within the sport and the horses themselves, and in a lot of ways, they’re what keep people in it.
The horses are the obvious starting point. They are the focal point of everything. Getting to know them as individuals, understanding what makes them tick, and working out how to get the best out of them – that’s what I always found most rewarding when I was in a yard.
But what keeps you in racing long term is the people. I’ve met some brilliant people through the sport – people you work with every day, through the ups and downs. Being part of a team, sharing those moments, and building that camaraderie is a big part of what makes racing what it is. It’s something I didn’t fully appreciate until I stepped away from it.
After leaving racing, I spent some time working in a different industry. I met some great people, but it wasn’t the same. What I realised quite quickly was that I missed being part of that environment and, more than anything, I missed the people. That’s a big part of what brought me back into the sport.
I’ve been very lucky throughout my career. A lot of people gave me opportunities, helped me along the way, and took the time to teach me things when they didn’t have to. Now, being in this role, it feels like a chance to do the same for others – to help people coming into the sport, support those already in it, and give something back to an industry that’s given me a lot.
I think this is where apprenticeships can really help. Racing will always be a hands-on industry where you learn by doing, and that’s a big part of what makes it what it is. But having some structure around that – helping people understand not just what they’re doing day to day, but why they’re doing it – can make a real difference. It gives people something to work towards and a clearer sense of progression. From a trainer’s point of view, it also helps support the development of staff over time, which benefits everyone.
For me, I’m looking forward to getting out to yards, meeting people, and helping in a practical way. Whether that’s supporting learners coming into the sport or helping to develop people already in it.
Are you interested in a future career in racing? You can find out more about our racing apprenticeships here.
If you have any questions about our apprenticeships or if you’d like to hire an apprentice for your business, please get in touch here.
