Racehorse Trainer

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About

A career as a Racehorse Trainer

Racehorse Trainers look after thoroughbred horses' training and welfare, preparing them for races. They establish the early training of each horse, preparing them for specific races. They work with their team to build up each horse's stamina, fitness and technique, and devise individual training and feeding programmes.

A Racehorse Trainer runs the business side of the training operation including preparing business plans, managing staff and finances, dealing with clients, owners and suppliers and managing the facilities.

Also known as: Horse Racing Trainer, Equine Trainer

Skills/Knowledge

You'll need:

  • a full understanding of the British Horseracing Authority's orders, instructions and rules of racing

  • excellent horse management skills and thorough knowledge of training racehorse

  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail

  • to work well with others

  • to accept criticism and work well under pressure

  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations

  • excellent interpersonal, leadership and communication skills

  • a sound knowledge of business and financial management

  • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You will need a licence to train from the British Horseracing Authority. To gain this, you will need to provide the BHA with your business plan, professional references and a financial statement.

Salary

NB These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary depending on the employer and the skills and experience of the employee.

Most Racehorse Trainers are self-employed therefore their annual income will vary significantly depending on how many horses they train and the number of races that are won. Cup-winning Trainers get a share of prize money and can lead to more interest in their business.

£25,000
Typical salaries
range from
£60,000
Typical Hours

45-48 hours per week. This role will require flexible working and early morning starts.

Day to Day

  • Setting and overseeing the care, feeding and health policies

  • Hiring and managing staff

  • Planning and implementing a training and fitness programme for each horse

  • Monitor horses’ development and assessing horses' ability for potential races

  • Talk to staff and vets about any health problems

  • Supervise stable staff

  • Plan race entries, selecting and appointing suitable jockeys to horses

  • Complete racing documentation including licences, entries and declarations

  • Travel with horses for race days

  • Keep racehorse owners up to date with their horses’ progress

  • Deal with administrative work like training records, wages and payments

Working Environment

Trainers work outdoors in all weather conditions and travel to race meetings throughout the country.

Training Available

Training is an essential part of any job, giving you the skills and knowledge you need to do your job safely and correctly. It also helps to strengthen your current skill set and prepares you for the next stage in your career.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships help you build the experience and skills that employers want to see. No matter what stage you’re at, they’ll help set you up for a bright future. There are lots of ways to get involved.

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