The first careers webinar from the Agri Aware From Foal to Race Transition year programme in association with Equuip was with Katie McManmon.
Katie is a former apprentice jockey who now coaches and lectures at RACE, the jockey training academy on the Curragh.
In her own words: “My name is Katie McManmon and I am a Racing Coach and Lecturer in the Racing Academy and Centre of Education (RACE) and a Career Coach for Irish Professional Jockeys.
“I have worked in the horse racing industry since I was 14 years old. I have been an Apprentice Jockey, an Exercise Rider, an Assistant Trainer and worked for Horse Racing Ireland in administration.
“Horseracing has allowed me to travel all over the world, including the US and Australia. I love the industry I work in”.
Transition
Katie chatted with Aimee Gray, Education Officer at Agri Aware, about her career to date and how she made the transition from the saddle to the lecture hall. Katie has a wide experience across the equine industry that she shared in the webinar.
Students were busy with plenty of questions for Katie.
The From Foal to Race programme is a collaboration between Agri Aware and Equuip for Transition Year classes.
The pilot programme provides students with a comprehensive overview of the horse racing industry. It has a strong focus on increasing awareness of the careers that feature throughout the foal to race story. Some of the featured career case studies include jockeys, digital marketing and nominations.
Throughout this 12 week programme, both teachers and students will gain insight into the horse racing industry. This includes the role of stud farms, animal welfare and other regulations of the industry.
This programme is not just relevant for those living within horseracing communities but also opens conversations for those who do not. There are no prior industry or equine knowledge expectations.