OUR trainee jockeys are all out on work placement and are now completing various assessments and course work in order to complete certified modules before arriving at the final six-week term when they commence full working days in a racing yard.

At this time of year, they participate in a variety of personal and professional development activities which include some sessions on race riding skills with Barry Walsh, nutritional advice, mental health awareness, injury rehabilitation, pilates and weigh room etiquette with valet Paul Fox.

CHARITY FUND-RASING

They are also engaging in some charity fund-raising as part of the Gaisce personal achievement award and the most recent event involved completing a ‘Bogathon’ at Lisduff Farm in Co Laois. This 7km run and scramble over a variety of landscapes is designed to test physical fitness, mental fortitude and stamina and proved a most enjoyable afternoon for all involved, even those who had to be pulled out of the muddy bog on more than one occasion!

Financial proceeds will go towards injured jockeys, horse welfare and mental health awareness but the personal credits will be lodged in the account called character development.