We have recently welcomed former amateur jockey, Hannah Gregory, to our team of industry experienced Trainer Coaches. We caught up with Hannah to discuss her colourful career and how she will support future talent coming into the racing industry.
Hannah says, “I have been fortunate to have owned and ridden horses since a young age; competing in various equine disciplines including dressage, showjumping, eventing, racing and point to point. I am currently retraining my ex-racehorse, Shadow.
My love of racing started by attending national hunt meets at Catterick Racecourse. I used to study the horses in the paddock. I loved watching jump jockey, Graham Lee, who fast became my idol. I completed a racehorse care foundation course at the National Horseracing College and my career progressed from there.
I have experience as a dual-purpose amateur jockey and riding in point to points, winning the Skinners Ladies Open Point-To-Point Championship Final in 2018 on Owen Glendower, who I owned and trained. I have ridden at Cheltenham Racecourse twice and was part of the Retraining of Racehorse winning team at HOYS in 2012.
Giving back to the industry, and passing on my experience, has always been important to me. Becoming a Trainer Coach lets me work with likeminded racing grooms who are eager to progress. With experience in most roles within the racing industry, I can offer the best advice and guidance.
I enjoy being part of the learner’s development and helping them achieve their goals and aspirations. Visiting different yards and seeing different routines is also interesting. No two yards are the same, yet we all love the same sport and ultimately want the same outcome.
Apprenticeships allow learners the freedom to express themselves as an individual. People learn in different ways and in different environments. Apprenticeships are a good way of adapting to individual learner’s needs, helping them achieve whilst learning on the job. Employers have the opportunity to develop their employee and give them the required skills and knowledge for a successful future.
My advice to employers – When you invest in your staff, they invest in you, which in turn benefits the business.
My advice to apprentices – There are many opportunities in racing so explore all your options. You will be surprised what is out there! Don’t be afraid to utilise the amazing training and support networks available, it is all there for YOU!”
If you would like to know more about our racing apprenticeships and how we can help, contact our friendly team here.