Journalists Wandering Eyes Posted August 1, 2018 Journalists Share Posted August 1, 2018 When I read Bill Finley’s article about the Thoroughbred Idea Foundation in Wednesday’s TDN, my first thought was how to improve the lives of horses on the backstretch and the experience of visitors to the backstretch. On any given morning, you are going to see the kind of quality handling that most thoughtful horsemen put into their daily work with Thoroughbreds. But along with the skilled riders and horsemen, you’ll see people perhaps new to the job or not well trained. Mandatory training in horsemanship can instantly improve the care we give the horses and make everyone on the backstretch safer. There is no need to reinvent the wheel. I recently read that Laurel Park has started Groom Elite training for backstretch workers. All racetracks can adopt training programs for backstretch personnel and use it in a way that doesn’t disrupt the workday or the hiring cycle. This is a great first step and it is available immediately. There is a wealth of new information available regarding horse handling techniques, and clinics popping up all the time with people willing to teach the skill. A higher, more standardized skill level at the track would make racing safer and make it more appealing to fans. Don’t owners deserve the very best-trained people handling their multi-million dollar investments? Have your own idea for the TIF? Email it to suefinley@thetdn.com for publication. View the full article Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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