Paul Hainey talks about his apprenticeship through the Northern Racing College
Paul Hainey of Cambusnethan, Scotland first thought about a career in horseracing when his Aunty turned round to him one day and said “you’re only small you would make a good jockey!” So off he went to watch the racing at Hamilton and has been hooked ever since. He got a part time job doing stable duties at Ian Semple’s yard. He then got on the internet and found the Northern Racing College in Doncaster where he first attended a taster day and then as a student at the age of 16. The initial part of the course is 12 weeks, but he stayed on a few weeks extra at the college for more riding tuition as he didn’t feel at the time he was a strong enough rider.
The Northern Racing College then placed him on an Apprenticeship where Paul worked for Clive Brittain and Mick Quinlan. He is currently working for Gay Kellaway, a Newmarket based Trainer. Paul enjoyed his first ride at Lingfield Park Racecourse a couple of weeks ago finishing an impressive 3rd. He is currently continuing to learn and is being accessed regularly in the yard, but is also earning money. He should achieve his Level 2 Diploma in Racehorse Care within the next year or so.
When asked “would you recommend a career in racing?” his reply was simply “definitely! I loved my time and tuition at the Northern Racing College and I am enjoying what will hopefully be a long and successful career as a jockey!”
More information on Apprenticeships can be found on this website.
