In June 2022, I had completed my Level 3 in Equine Management (Business) at Hartpury College. This is a two year course that was mostly theory based but had practical sides a few times a week. During this time I had worked in Hartpury Therapy Centre once a week during my first year. In my second year I then moved onto working in a national hunt racing yard.

I have previously volunteered at RDA, i then moved onto a riding school which I went to one/two times a week to help out and ride. I then had my own summer loan which taught me a lot of things. I then moved onto working at a racing yard once a week as a work placement for my college course at Hartpury. In that placement I gained a lot of experience and knowledge from within the racing industry. From that placement I then bought my first horse, an ex racer from that yard who has progressed my knowledge with the thoroughbred breed. I have been in an equestrian environment from 2015 and i’m still very active in the equestrian sector to this day.

I have previously worked on a national hunt racing yard on the ground. From that experience I have learned that race horses are different to your typical horse and they need more care and attention to. I have also learned how to muck out a number of stables quickly as well as making sure the yard is kept to a high standard.

From the start of learning to ride up until now I have ridden a variety of horses that range from your typical plod along to very young green horses that needs a quiet hand and seat. I have no experience in starting a horse, however, I do have experience with changing a horses career from racing to another discipline. I do have the knowledge on how to start but I have never had the opportunity or chance to be able to do that.

During my time at Hartpury CollegeI had to complete a series of show duties where we were stewarding for a show, this could be Dressage, Show Jumping or Arena Eventing. As part of our course we had to create an event for students which took place at Hartpury. It was very important to work as a team to be able to get the day itself running smoothing and making sure everything is in the correct place. I have also competed in previous competitions which gave me knowledge in getting ready.