Exeter Racecourse launches acclaimed student initiative

Exeter Racecourse has launched its acclaimed student ambassador scheme which enables those who are studying to experience a number of different work placements within the racing industry.

The scheme was introduced three years ago to help give students a leg up in racing and now 12 work providers are on board.

New this season is RaceTech, which provides a unique range of technical and broadcast services to the horse racing industry.

Other experience days will be provided by Exeter Racecourse, Richard Linley, senior course inspector for the British Horseracing Authority; the British Horseracing Standards and Education Trust; Racenews, which writes and distribute media releases; Racing UK; Tom Malone Bloodstock, on course bookmakers Jack Bevan & Co; Great British Racing; David Pipe Racing, Cheltenham Racecourse and jockey Nick Scholfield.

Last year’s ambassador Frank Spurway said: “The initiative is superb and gave me a fascinating insight into the various different roles that are available within the industry.
“They were many and varied from working in the office at Great British Racing and Racenews to spending a day at the sales with Tom Malone. It’s such a great opportunity for any student and I’d thoroughly recommended that they apply.”

The ambassador role starts on November 1 and lasts until the end of Exeter’s season in May. Upon completion, they will be given a reference by Exeter’s general manager Daniel Thompson and testimonials from each partner who has signed up for the exciting initiative. The successful applicant will also be expected to promote racing at Exeter to fellow students.

General manager Daniel Thompson said: “It’s fantastic that so many people from within the industry have willingly come forward and we hope the initiative will give students a leg up as they embark on their careers once they leave college or university while encouraging fellow students to come racing. At the very least it should show them the many and varied jobs that are available within the racing industry.”

Ollie McPhail from Racing To School said: “Racing To School is once again delighted to support Exeter Racecourse’s excellent student ambassador initiative. It’s a great way to both increase awareness of and interest in employment opportunities in the racing industry. Last year’s ambassador Frank Spurway showed great enthusiasm and understanding of the sport and will hopefully now consider a future in it.”

Racenews manager Ben Cox said: “We’re very happy to be involved again. A day in our offices in London offers a real insight into the writing and distribution of press releases on behalf of racecourse as well as a host of other services we offer.”

Paul Metcalf of Jack Bevan & Co said: “We are delighted to come on board again with Exeter's student initiative. We had a lot of fun with last year’s ambassador Frank Spurway. A day with an on-course bookie should prove both entertaining and insightful.”

Students wishing to apply to become Exeter Racecourse’ Student Ambassador, should write, in no more than 400 words, why they think they fit the role, and how they will help promote racing to fellow students.

Please email Exeter Racecourse’s general manager Daniel Thompson daniel.thompson@thejockeyclub.co.uk
by October 31.