A REPUTATION is something that takes years to build and only fleeting moments to lose. Earning a good reputation is crucial if you want to work in the Irish racing industry.

I do not have a background in horse racing or breeding and, being the only member of my family involved to any degree in the equine industry, a good reputation is something I am keen to establish for myself.

Therefore I felt the opportunity to complete a summer internship at Horse Racing Ireland was not to be missed. I have worked part-time in racing for the past four years and combined my studies with obtaining an amateur rider’s licence.

Now this opportunity will allow me to make new contacts, learn more about how the industry operates and work alongside highly experienced people.

I am based at Fairyhouse Racecourse and the team here were quick to put me at ease on my ‘first day at school’. With introductions made, my role was clearly defined. The team here have a passion for racing and want to make the track as successful as possible.

This is my fifth week on the job and already I have learned a lot from operations manager Gillian Carey. My first day’s racing here coincided with Fran Berry’s 1,000th career winner aboard Shabra Emperor.

The numbers through the turnstiles were up on the previous year and the warm sunshine added to the party atmosphere.

We raced again last Sunday when the highlight was the Group 3 Brownstown Stakes. Again there was a great atmosphere on the day and we were kept very busy in the office ensuring that all went smoothly. It was thrilling to see the day go so well.

HIGHLIGHT

One of the highlights was walking the track with foreman Noel Fanning, manager Peter Roe and clerk of the course Brendan Sheridan, all of whom are very knowledgeable about the ground conditions and maintenance required to keep the track in excellent condition.

This gave me an insight into how many more customers a racecourse must please than a normal service industry business. It’s not just the general public but owners, trainers, jockeys and the betting man at home. The track-work is intensive all year, always planning ahead to ensure it is in prime racing condition.

Sales and marketing manager David O’Connor has also given me projects to work on. These include updating the website, student raceday promotions and digital marketing which has allowed me to improve my media and computer skills.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Fairyhouse like to use the personal touch when marketing - hitting the phones to create customer relationships with the track - and this has developed my personal communication skills.

Interns are also made feel part of HRI with training from head office and there is a community-like structure across the organisation. As interns we have opportunities to network within the thoroughbred industry, attending other racemeetings or HRI-organised events.

Looking to the future, my ambition is to run a successful equine business and contribute to the development of the industry in Ireland and abroad.