The British Horseracing Authority (BHA), in conjunction with Musselburgh racecourse will be hosting a Racing Experience Day for young people taking part in the Prince’s Trust xl programme on Friday 2 May. The pupils of Woodlands School, Edinburgh, will enjoy a behind-the scenes tour of the racecourse before and during racing.
BHA delivers Racing Experience Days at racecourses across the country for members of the Prince’s Trust’s xl clubs. Many of the attendees have never been racing before, or seen a horse up close. The tours provide a money-can’t-buy insight into the running of a raceday as the students meet all the people that make the day happen, including the Clerk of the Course, Stewards, Starter, Clerk of the Scales, racecourse Vets and Judges. A top jockey will also speak to the young people about their career and a brief talk is given about the various career opportunities in the racing industry.
Robin Mounsey, Media Manager for BHA, said:
“This year marks the sixth year of our relationship with the Prince’s Trust and we will be holding a record number of Racing Experience Days in 2014. The days introduce the young people to an industry that they may not have been aware of and showcases the diverse and exciting range of opportunities that could exist within Racing, as well as providing an exciting and unique experience.”
Bill Farnsworth, General Manager at Musselburgh racecourse, said:
“We are delighted to host this Racing Experience Day at Musselburgh and welcome the opportunity to support local charities and community. We hope the students on the Prince’s Trust xl programme enjoy their day and learn more about the Racing industry and the extensive career opportunities it holds.”
The young people attending the Racing Experience Days are members of the Prince’s Trust’s xl programme. This programme is for young people aged 13 to 19, who may be struggling with certain aspects of school, and is designed to give them the skills and confidence they need to achieve their full potential while in education and have a brighter future. The xl clubs promote a flexible approach, using relevant, experience-led learning to support young people to achieve a range of personal and employability skills.
Allan Watt, Director for the Prince’s Trust Scotland, said:
“We are delighted to be working with the BHA to provide a unique experience for some of the young people on our xl programme.
“The Racing Experience Days, run in partnership with the BHA, are much more than an entertaining and exciting day out for xl clubs. They provide young people on the programme with a chance to think about their future and explore the wide range of employment opportunities their local racecourse offers.”
Any journalists interested in covering the day and keen to join the group please contact Tessa Smyth: [email protected] or tel: 0207 152 0163. A photographer can be provided if necessary.
