OVER 200 school children from the area took part in a special Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) Racing Juniors education day at Tipperary Racecourse last Tuesday, as the racecourse gears up for its Super Sunday meeting on October 6th.

The young visitors got to go behind the scenes at the track and meet Monard trainer, Patrick Ryan and his winning point-to-pointer, Coffeys Forge. Pat explained the typical day-to-day routine for his racehorses, their exercise schedule and diet, and how he prepares them to run in a race.

Former jockey, Ken Whelan brought the children into the weigh room to show them the jockeys’ changing room and the kit jockeys wear and use on racedays, including boots, back-protector, helmet and saddle.

Racecourse manager, Andrew Hogan and track and facilities manager, Perry Power brought the children on a tour of the stableyard and the racecourse and explained how the team prepare the track for a raceday and all the equipment required to maintain the racing surface.

Farrier Johnny O’Connell explained the role of the farrier and the special skills and equipment required to treat racehorses’ hooves.

In addition, riding coach Niall Byrne from the Racing Academy and Centre of Education (RACE) gave the children an opportunity to ride the racehorse simulator. The objective of the HRI Racing Juniors education days is to encourage an affinity with racehorses among the younger generation and demonstrate the variety of careers available in the racing and breeding industry in Ireland.

HRI Racing Juniors education days are free to attend.

To register your school’s interest for a HRI Racing Juniors education day at your local racecourse in 2024, email: hriracingjuniors@hri.ie