In the spring half term one Wings Cumbria student had the opportunity of a lifetime when he was given the chance to complete one week's work experience on a racehorse training yard in Newmarket.
T and Miss Atherton, Equine Education co-ordinator, were welcomed into David Lanigan’s team and shown all aspects of looking after and training their incredible horses.
T is a post-16 student currently completing his Equine Qualification Limited Level 2 course alongside a National College of Further Education Level 1 Customer services course. His ambition is to gain employment on a racehorse yard when he leaves education.
It was a long 5-hour drive from Cumbria to Newmarket but well worth every mile. From Day 1, T got stuck in with the daily routines and picked up invaluable experience and tips from experienced jockeys and other yard staff.
Both T and Miss Atherton were made to feel at home and quickly felt like part of the Lanigan team. Every day T rode out in the ‘lot’ and had the rare chance to feel what it’s like out on the Newmarket gallops with a group of racehorses and their riders putting them through their paces.
On top of all this T and Miss Atherton met Racing royalty when David took them to Juddmonte Farm to meet Frankel who is standing at stud there. Being in the presence of the legend that is Frankel was an awe-inspiring moment and one which T and Miss Atherton will cherish and never forget. T is now completely focussed on his goal to attend the Northern Racing College and complete a foundation course this summer.