Explorer Cadets Embark on Thoroughbred Industry Careers Program

Thirty young horse-enthusiasts pictured above from regions spanning Gin Gin in Queensland to Northampton in Western Australia convened this week at the Australian Racing and Equine Academy in Richmond NSW to commence the Inaugural Thoroughbred Industry Careers'Explorer Cadetship' Program.

The Explorer Cadetship Program is designed to provide an educational pathway which will prepare young people for the many career options offered by Australian thoroughbred breeding and racing. The program begins with a three-month practical and theoretical learning block at the Australian Racing and Equine Academy (Richmond, NSW) to become work ready, while students reside at Western Sydney University (Richmond Campus).Each student will then be assigned to a leading trainer where they will spend 4.5 months on their first paid work experience in a racing stable, followed by 4.5 months on a leading stud farm. Mentoring and guidance will continue after Graduation to help students find suitable opportunities in the areas that particularly interest them.

TIC CEO Lindy Maurice said, "The Cadets have predominantly come from rural areas right across Australia, with most of them starting their riding instruction at Pony Club from a young age, some having ridden horses for mustering and campdrafting while others have competed at state level equestrian competitions. Our goal for these students is for them to get a feel for both the breeding and racing industries before they decide which area they would like to pursue further. At this early stage of the program, a lot have expressed ambitions to be professional track riders whilst a couple would like to become veterinarians. They all have one thing in common, their love of horses!"

The program focuses not only on horsemanship but also life skills, manners, and etiquette, with Hall of Fame trainer Gai Waterhouse volunteering to conduct these classes herself.

"The Explorer Program, for young horse enthusiasts, who are keen to learn about our industry, is a brilliant concept and one which Adrian and I embrace enthusiastically. We can't wait to meet this exciting group of young people and help them develop their potential. Great for them, very good for racing," commented Gai Waterhouse.

This training program is part of a wider push by the not for profit organisation Thoroughbred Industry Careers, established in October 2018to promote career pathways into the industry and introduce new educational opportunities for young people.

Leading thoroughbred employers Adrian Bott/Gai Waterhouse Racing, Arrowfield Stud, the Australian Turf Club, Chris Waller Racing, Godolphin Australia, Lindsay Park Racing and McEvoy Mitchell Racing areamong those offering knowledge and expertise to TIC.

TIC would also like to acknowledge Racing NSW, Inglis, Ranvet and Magic Millions for their support of the program.

For further information and/or interviews please contact: Lindy Maurice – 0488 066 604