Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) welcomed 17 Trackwork Riders into the newly established Trackwork Rider Training Program on 1 November 2023.
The 12-month Trackwork Rider Training Program for industry participants gives existing workers the opportunity to complete Nationally Accredited Training, refine their current skills and knowledge in their occupation and provides a pathway to the Apprentice Jockey Training Program (AJTP) for those who wish to apply.
Trackwork riders form an integral part of the racing industry. They work hard, along with trainers, to keep racehorses fit and ready for racing. The introduction of this new program will provide formal training to existing workers which was not previously available within WA and hopefully help address the current skills shortage for this occupation. Having skilled workers also supports increased safety in stables.
Racing Training Manager, Sharyn Lancaster, said the training team were overwhelmed by the response to the new program and are excited to get the program underway.
“Bringing the RGR30518 Certificate III in Racing (Trackwork Rider) out of the Apprenticeship Program and offering it to industry now allows for participants to be race ready if they wish to apply for the Jockey Apprenticeship,” she said.
“This allows a full 4 years to race ride as an apprentice jockey with a claim once trials are completed, she said.”
RWWA Jockey Coach, Peter Hall said he is really looking forward to delivering the new trackwork rider training course to the 17 participants and is extremely excited about the opportunities and benefits it offers participants.
“Many on the new participants aspire to become jockey’s and the program will provide them with the essential knowledge and skills to do so and put them in good stead to apply for the Jockey Apprenticeship upon successful completion of this program,” he said.
Pictured
Peter Hall (Jockey Coach) with participants Emily Anderson, Shyane Marlborough, Tessa Fernie, Monique Kershaw, Holly Nottle, Ella Primrose, Natika Riordan, Kaitlyn Wells, Brooke Hall, Kayla Holroyd, Tiana Murray, Jayde Pike, Danielle Daniel, Sharni Webster, Zoe Gray (Not pictured Harrison Bridgeman, Mackenzie Wallrodt).