Working closely with the trainers and grooms, this is an important role in the racing yard. They must be highly skilled in all aspects of horsemanship to look after prize race horses.
It involves managing the horses’ feeding regimes and as most job roles in the yard, it means early mornings and late nights.
The Head Racing Groom conducts general health and welfare checks on all of the horses including checking their legs and temperatures as well as assisting the vet with ongoing treatment of any injuries or conditions.
The Head Racing Groom supports the trainers with the efficient running of the yard and managing stable staff including training young and inexperienced team members as well as breaking in young horses.
Most Head Racing Grooms have progressed to this senior role, from the position of Racing Groom.
To become a Racing Groom you will need to complete the National Certificate in Horse Care (racing route) or the suite of National Progression Awards which are both available at SRUC and Borders College in conjunction with the Scottish Racing Academy.