After a successful inaugural season where 14 passionate individuals completed the Horsemanship Training Program at Woodbine Racetrack, Woodbine Entertainment Group (WEG) and the Horsemen’s Benevolent Protective Association of Ontario (HBPA), along with partner Groom Elite are excited to launch a second season of the program.
The program offers development opportunities for those who are currently working with horses in some capacity or those who wish to work alongside horses for the first time. Due to the uniqueness of the program, both groups will be able to learn vital skills and develop a path to potential employment in Woodbine’s backstretch.
“We were extremely happy with the outcome of the 2016 training program and are proud to continue to support the development of caring, qualified people to work with the world-class equine athletes that compete at Woodbine Racetrack,” said Jessica Buckley, Vice-President Corporate Affairs and Community Relations.
Graduates of the program will have the necessary skills to immediately gain employment as a Groom (caring for the horses and facilities) or a Hotwalker (assisting horses cool down after a race or training session) in the Woodbine backstretch.
With more than 2100 horses living and competing at Woodbine annually, the need for qualified people to assist in the training and care increases every year.
“Working with horses is so rewarding,” said HBPA President, Sue Leslie. “With an acute shortage of qualified workers on the backside it is imperative we do all we can to develop skilled workers for our members. The HBPA, partnering with WEG, is committed to the Elite program.”
This year’s edition of the program expands by offering a two-week hotwalker program (Grooming 099) as well as a three-week groom program (Groom Elite 101). Once again the program is supported by Dr. Reid McLellan, Executive Director of the Elite Program Inc., who will guide participants through in-class on hands-on training.
“I’m looking forward to returning to Woodbine as I enjoyed watching the transition of wary, inexperienced participants as they gained confidence with each practice day,” said Dr. C. Reid McLellan. “Last year’s inaugural class introduced local citizens to jobs available at Woodbine and at over half of that first class had jobs in the Woodbine stable area after that program.”
The program runs on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 pm to 4:00pm beginning on April 24th (Introduction to Grooming 099) and May 15th (Groom Elite 101). Those interested are encouraged to apply online here prior to the April 1st deadline.
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