Elijah Michael – HBLB & British Racing School
Horse racing has been a lifelong obsession of mine , having ridden most of my life , and was all I ever wanted to do , so it was the natural progression to seek employment in the industry that I have by far more knowledge and passion for than any other . As well as taking great interest in racing on a regular basis , I have always enjoyed and taken great care in understanding all the off-the-course occurrences that affect all that happens on the track and a career in the politics of racing is something that has really appealed to me . The Development Programme offered a direct pathway into all these pursuits and definitely develop my knowledge in a greater , professional setting . Although it is no more than a dream , my goal is to be able to stand in the parade ring at Epsom with the Coolmore partners and Aidan O ’ Brien , who have always been my heroes from a young age . Breeding and Bloodstock is a particular interest of mine , so to potentially work in that would be reap immense self-satisfaction for myself . Aside from seeking to diversify the industry as a person from an ethnic minority who did not come from a ‘ horsey ’ background , I would love to ensure the livelihood of racing by navigating through the contemporary issues facing racing such as the gambling review , pressure from animal rights groups , and better solutions to the lapses of professionalism that has plagued racing particularly in the past year or so .
Dominic Pieczka – British Horseracing Authority
I am currently 22 years old and from Nottinghamshire . I have recently finished a degree in international horse racing business at Hartpury University . I have had a lifelong passion for racing having watched it since I can remember at my grandparents ’ house , and this has led me to study a degree and base my dissertation around the sport . I have travelled internationally watching racing and trying to develop an even greater understanding of the industry . I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to be accepted onto the development programme as I believe it is an exceptional stepping stone to furthering my career within the sport . The contacts and skillset the programme offer is unlike any other . I am thoroughly excited and raring to go to develop , learn and progress within my placement . I want to contribute to the future successes of racing with the aim of increasing competitiveness and sustainability . careersinracing . com
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