Race for your life!

Most of us go along to the races to have a fun day out and watch our horse race towards the finishing line. But, on the other side of the fence, there are people, hard at work, making a living out of these wonderful animals.

The world of horse racing is exciting, but it takes dedication and spirit to succeed, and, of course, a love of horses. And that, in itself, is why many people choose a career in thoroughbred racing..

Thoroughbred Racing SA Training Supervisor, Bill Forrestal, believes there are excellent prospects for anyone interested in becoming involved with the racing industry. “It’s not just about becoming a jockey,” says Bill. “There are many specialised areas within the industry that contribute to the success of a race horse.

The days include interviews with leading apprentice jockeys and trainers, and personnel from Lindsay Park will be at Cheltenham to give a first-hand insight into what’s involved in running a successful stable. Tafe SA, Bailies Saddlery, Horse SA and Primary Industries will have displays, and there’ll be competitions, giveaways and information packs. Plus, there’ll be Barrier tours, and, at Cheltenham, tours of the Horse Skills Centre.

“These days are designed to show young people the opportunities available in the racing industry, and to give them a small taste of what it’s like to work with horses,” says Bill. “Tafe SA conducts courses for those interested in becoming apprentice jockeys, trainers, stable employees, track riders and farriers. Information about these courses will be available on the days. It really is a fun, casual way to find out what happens behind the scenes of a race day.”

For more information about either Career’s Day, please contact Tafe SA on 08 8347 2182, Bill Forrestal at TRSA on 08 8179 9823 or visit racingsa.com.au

For more course information, contact

Cheltenham Horse Skills Centre on (08) 8347 2182

Torrens Valley TAFE on (08) 8207 8080 or Torrens Valley TAFE

Marcus Oldham College on (03) 5247 2926