Kylie Reeves with HERO in training Motu Crusader.
Life after racing is a new addition to the curriculum at Bendigo’s Harness Racing Training Centre.
The Centre has joined forces with Harness Education and Rehoming Opportunities (HERO) on a project which will see student Kylie Reeves build her skills and knowledge working with retired standardbred horses.
Under the initiative, Kylie spends one day per week on placement with HERO, which is Harness Racing Victoria's (HRV) official life-after-racing program.
Her role includes working hands-on with trotters and pacers which have come to the end of their racing career to prepare them for a new vocation under saddle.
The Association of Victorian Country Harness Racing Clubs has also thrown its weight behind the project, providing the sponsorship support required to make the initiative a reality.
HERO Manager Tanya McDermott said one of the program’s greatest needs was to build resources, specifically individuals with the skills and knowledge to work with retired standardbreds as they transition into a new life.
She is therefore pleased to be partnering with HRTC Bendigo and sees exciting potential for the partnership to grow and blossom moving forward.
“It’s fantastic that the Centre, which delivers TAFE-accredited training for people wanting to become actively involved in the harness racing industry, is keen to diversify the skill set of its students.
“There has never been a greater focus on life after racing within our industry and there are legitimate career paths available for those interested in working with standardbreds outside the traditional racing environment,” she suggested.
“It’s vital that retirement opportunities are a key consideration for current and future industry participants, not to mention the fact that ridden work is becoming a regular training tool for many racing standardbreds and sets these horses up for a fantastic pleasure life.”
HRTC Bendigo CEO Vicki Moro shares Tanya’s enthusiasm.
“Kylie attended a recent HERO Retraining Day at Elmore which fuelled an existing interest in Standardbreds and their life after racing,” she explained.
“HRTC was keen to nurture that interest and we believe the partnership with HERO is a valuable collaboration between two significant industry organisations.
“We are enormously grateful to the AVCHRC for their financial input and will be following Kylie’s progress closely, with a view to building even stronger ties with the HERO Program in the future.”
Country Clubs Association CEO David Brick sees the partnership as a positive for all parties.
“On behalf of our member Clubs we're excited to be involved in this project to assist Kylie with her development and education," he said.
“Fostering and promoting participation is a primary purpose of our Clubs.
“Partnering with both the HERO Program and the HRTC Bendigo enables our Association and Clubs to contribute towards and support participation in our industry."
Media enquiries:
Tanya McDermott (HRV HERO Manager)
t: 0407 413 15 | e: hrvhero@gmail.com
