Meet The Trainees - Killian Gallagher

My name is Killian, I am 17 years old. I’m from Strabane in CoTyrone. Horses have always been part of my life and I’ve always wanted to be a Jockey, as I was hoping to follow in the footsteps of my uncle Pat Gallagher who had been a Jockey and has pursued a training career in America.

I finished school and one of my friends had been telling me that he was going to RACE so I started to research more about the course. When I left school I had the choice to go straight to a Trainer or go to RACE. So I decided to go to the trial and I got accepted.

I knew a lot about racehorses and race riding before I came here from pony racing but there was also a lot I didn’t know. Since I have came to RACE It has helped me improve my riding dramatically as I have a better position on a horse and I am a lot stronger now than I was before.

I am hoping to stay on as a senior in RACE as I am in a really good position in Tracey Collins yard and I am hoping to sign on as her Apprentice after the course.

Killian (far side) out on Maddenstown Gallops

Meet The Trainees - Jordan Cummins

My name is Jordan Cummins, I am 17 years old and I’m from Ballyfermot in Dublin. My family owned horses so I’ve always been around them and had an interest in them. I left school after my Junior Cert and I took a course in the Cherry Orchard Equine Centre and did some showjumping. I completed my leaving cert and a Level 4 in Stable Yard Routine. The Instructors Emma and Ciara recommended that I go to the Open Day in RACE. I decided to apply and was accepted for the week trial.

The trial was tough and I realised that it was important to be well mannered, hardworking and determined to be successful in the Racing Industry. I learned how to ride from showjumping to being a Trainee Jockey. I worked in the barn in RACE until January and then I was sent to Micheal Grassick (JR). While there I learned a lot including riding work and got the experience and the opportunity to learn and develop my riding skills and take care of horses, which I am very grateful for. I found being away from home and the early mornings difficult at times but it has to be done to become successful.

My plan is to get my Apprentice License and become a successful jockey.

I would definitely recommend the course to anyone that has an interest in horses. I have learnt a lot over the last 10 months and it’s a great experience especially at a young age. I’ve met some nice people and some great friends

Family day 2015