Racehorse Performance and Rehabilitation (Hons)

Overview

Horseracing offers the opportunity to experience varied and exciting careers all over the world. As a graduate from this the Racehorse Performance and Rehabilitation (Hons) course from Hartpury College you’ll have strong awareness of the racing industry, combined with the ability to apply scientific principles to training practices, analyse performance and understand the rehabilitation of the racehorse. You’ll be introduced to key horseracing industry professionals, both inside and outside your lectures.

Your first year will give you an applied introduction to the thoroughbred industry, to ensure you have the knowledge you need to progress into year two. You’ll learn about international racehorse management and the facets that make up the global racing industry. Alongside this, you’ll develop your understanding of the biology of the racehorse, including how functional anatomy and physiology, nutrition, genetics and health combine to underpin performance and success.

In your second and final years you’ll delve deeper into the fascinating principles that underpin training approaches, with optional modules enabling you to specialise in an area to suit your interests and career goals. This could include equine sports medicine, performance analysis or the therapy and rehabilitation of the racehorse.

Live business briefs, field trips and work experience will strengthen your understanding of equine performance and rehabilitation in the racing world. You’ll also have opportunities to support the rehabilitation of racehorses in our commercial equine therapy centre, experiencing first-hand the latest scientific approaches to racehorse training and rehabilitation post injury. You’ll graduate with a strong portfolio of skills and experience, ready to take your next step into employment or further study.

Industry opportunities

Gloucestershire is renowned for horseracing, with the world famous Gold Cup held in Cheltenham each year. The county is home to some of the world’s most prestigious racehorse trainers. Our students gain experience with many of these organisations, as well as through our partnerships with key governing bodies including the British Horseracing Association. They also work at racecourses across.

Graduate destinations

Several of our graduates from our equine programmes have gone on to forge successful careers within the horseracing industry. One has even gone on to become the UK’s youngest racehorse trainer! Roles include:

• Management positions within the Irish National Stud

• Bloodstock Nominations Manager

• Racehorse trainer

• Sports therapy and rehabilitation for horse and rider

• Graduate Scheme, British Horseracing Authority

• Marketing manager, Thirsk and York racecourses