Experience with Horses

Outline your experience with horses here/the scope of your freelance services. If you’re looking for a non-equine or non- yard-based job please use this space to describe your experience skills/abilities and adapt the questions to suit your line of work.

I have a broad range of experience in equine management, specialising in showjumping, hunting, racing (both NH and flat), and young horse production. My passion started at 8years old when my parents bought me my first pony and since then I have self produced every horse I have owned or worked. Producing results with them from a 5th place individually at the NSEA showjumping finals on a self produced ex race horse, all the way to jumping double clear on another self produced horse in the 1.35m 6year old Grand Prix on the Sunshine Tour, Spring 2023.

Since leaving school in 2016, I have worked across various equestrian disciplines, staring with a role at John and Laura Renwick’s, renewed breeders and producers of top-level young horses all the way to 5* level/GCT. In this role I was responsible for producing and breaking in the young horses, as well as exercising Lauras top string of horses and occasionally jumping them whilst she was away. All 6 horses I broke in and started off when on to jump at 1.30m+ level. I gained invaluable experience in horse care, preparing horses for competition and working closely with vets and farriers.

After this I joined the Brendon Stud, a large breeding facility with up to 100 broodmares and young stock. I did so in order to gain more competition experience and as such rode up to 14 competition horses ranging for 4 to 8year olds, competing them from British Novice to 1.30m level. This role allowed me to refine my ability to adapt my riding style to suit different types of horses, ensuring their education was appropriate for progressing to top level competition. I was also involved with the breeding program, assisting with foaling, handling young stock and stallions and regularly interacting with the vet. Unfortunately two concussions in quick succession led me to take a professional break from riding.

During this break, I pursued a degree in Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Bath, where I studied topic like biomechanics, sports psychology, nutrition and Strength and conditioning. This knowledge has been invaluable and complemented my skills. I continued to ride and compete my own horses during this time, while also working for racing yards, including Neil Mulholland and Richard Mitford-Slade, kick starting my experience in the racing industry.

Upon finishing my degree, I worked for one of the Masters of the Staff College Drag Hunt in Berkshire, where I was responsible for exercising and managing 7 huts horses, preparing them for weekly hunts. This role gave me a deeper understanding of different equestrian disciplines while continuing to compete my show jumpers.

After the hunt season, I joined Tina and Graham Fletcher as a competition rider and head girl, where I was given the opportunity to produce and compete the young horses, as well as travel to various shows. This role provided invaluable experience in horse production and competition and in the running and organisation of a fast paced competition yard with two professional riders with a string of horses each.

Most recently, I took on the role of Assistant Trainer at Alex Dunn Racing, where I managed a yard of 50 racehorses, overseeing all aspects of the yard, including staff management (hiring and firing), veterinary care, farrier visits and coordinating staff rotas and holidays. In addition, I was head travelling lass and so would transport all horses to the races and prepare them to run. This position allowed me to manage both the horses and a team effectively, liaising with owners and sponsors and ensuring the smooth operation of the yard.

Throughout my career, I have gained a diverse range of experiences that have deepened my understanding of the equine industry. I am dedicated to horse welfare, rider safety and continually improving my own knowledge and skills. I bring a flexible and open approach to equestrianism while being firm in my values and beliefs.

 

Key Skills

What are you particularly good at? For example: working alone, working with others, clipping, plaiting, turning out for shows, handling stallions, handling/riding young horses, non-equine skills etc

I have a broad range of skills and thrive in various roles within equine management. I am highly capable of working independently, having led multiple yards and managed horses for racing and competition on my own. I am skilled at plaiting, mane pulling and trimming, clipping and grooming, with experience at national and international showjumping events, as well as turning out horses for hunting and taking horses racing at prestigious events such as Ascot.

my experience includes working at a breeding stud, so am good at handling stallions for AI, broodmares, unhandled foals and young stock and as a result long reigning, lunging, breaking in and competing young horses.

I hold a class 2 HGV license and have driven a 26tonne truck on two tours to Spain, as well as towed with a two horse box all over the country during my role as Head Travelling Lass. In my role as Assistant trainer I developed the ability to manage staff effectively, organise rotas, liaise with owners and handled invoicing and email communications. I am also accustomed to working closely with vets and other equine health professionals in a high-performance setting.

Finally, I hold a degree in Sport and Exercise Science, making my very computer literate, whilst also achieving a BWLI, S&C and PT level 2 qualifications.

 

Strengths and Weaknesses

• What do you most enjoy about working with horses?

I have a deep love and respect for horses; they are fascinating, intuitive creatures with unique personalities that can either bond with you or challenge you, this dynamic is what makes working with them so rewarding. Beyond my passion for horses, I am also highly competitive (probably stemming from my father being a professional sportsmen), and equestrianism offers the perfect blend of both. The opportunity to connect with a half-tonne animal, building a strong partnership in the stable and a seamless team in the ring, is truly special. I particularly enjoy watching horses develop and learn in a compassionate way and it is very fulfilling knowing you have helped them get there and witnessing the sense of achievement or feeling the joy the bring to the rider; and it is this shared journey that drives me everyday.

• Is there anything you’d like to improve?

While I feel confident in my skills and experience, I believe there is always room for improvement and growth, especially in a field as dynamic as equestrianism. I am always eager to expand my knowledge, whether it is through learning new techniques, staying updated on the latest industry developments, or gaining experience in different disciplines. This commitment to continuous learning helps me refine my approach and ensures that I can provide the best care and management for both horses and riders.

• Why should employers consider you above any other job seeker?

Employers should consider me for an equestrian management role because I am highly reliable, organised and skilled both working independently and as a part of a team. I take great pride in my attention to detail and problem solving abilities, ensuring that all tasks are complete efficiently and to the highest standard. My approach is thorough, no stone is left unturned and I am always focused on providing the best care and education for the horses, as their well-being is my top priority. I am driven to succeed and am committed to helping create or compliment a positive, fun and productive environment, where both horses and team members can thrive. My dedication to excellence ensures that I always give my best, fostering a work atmosphere that is not only efficient but also enjoyable for everyone involved.

Requirements

• What would you like to do or gain in your next job?

I would love to be in a management role again, I thrive under pressure and enjoy challenges.

• Do you need accommodation?

Depends on location.

• Do you have any special requirements for any animals you wish to bring with you?

No

• Do you have any ongoing commitments?

Currently working freelance at a hunt yard until the end of February.

• Do you have any holidays booked that an employer needs to know of?

Ski holiday, end of January (Provisional).