RACE goes on the road with mobile training unit

The Racing Academy and Centre of Education (RACE) is taking to the road with a state-of-the-art mobile unit, sponsored by equuip and Godolphin, to offer training and education including jockey coaching for all work riders, licensed riders and people employed in licensed training yards throughout Ireland.

The mobile unit offers a range of training opportunities including coaching for apprentices, conditionals and amateur riders, simulator coaching and fitness assessments, and advanced riding skills. The RACE mobile unit will deliver all training in the workplace and also attend designated Point-to-Point fixtures.

The purpose-built unit contains a specially designed racehorse simulator with lateral lean and sensors that provide feedback on rider balance, rein contact and correct use of the whip. It also employs head-on and side cameras with large screens for capturing and recording rider technique, all of which are linked to coaching software on hand-held tablets for ease of demonstration and feedback.

Keith Rowe, Director of RACE, said: “The mobile unit is a great asset for RACE and, thanks to the generous support of equuip and Godolphin, will allow us to bring training to the regions. We hope that by offering flexible training options at times and locations that suit employers and staff, riders of all levels will benefit, and we can better support the industry and their needs.

“We anticipate it will be very busy throughout the year supporting trainers, stable staff and licensed riders around the country.”

Carol Nolan, HRI’s Director of People and Industry Education, said: “Equuip is really excited to work with Godolphin and RACE to deliver flexible training through the mobile unit.

"One of the key areas of focus for us has been to provide greater levels of accessible training and education to people working in the industry. We are aware of the need for training and practical skills but understand the challenges in accessing training with the day-to-day demands of the workplace.

"Hopefully the technology and equipment in the mobile until will maximise the benefits of the training it can provide in an engaging way for all those who participate with the service.”

Joe Osborne, Managing Director of Godolphin Ireland, added: “This unit will help the talented team at RACE have a national outreach of their training services. It also has the potential to highlight thoroughbred industry career opportunities by visiting schools and racecourses. Godolphin is delighted to have supported it.”