What can you expect from this course?
The Professional Racetrack Groom Course is a “Learn and Earn” concept program that will give you the confidence and skill to become a professional licensed Groom at Alberta Horse Racing Tracks! This unique program has a blended approach that will allow you to study online, learn from and practice your skill with industry professional instructors, all while allowing you to earn a wage working in the industry! You will acquire the skills you need to provide intensive professional care to elite race horses.
Delivery: Online, Olds Campus, Century Mile Racetrack Nisku
Fees: $1000
Program Dates: January - April
January 16 - February 10, 2023: Online (instructor guided in Moodle)
February 13 - March 17,2023: Face to face at Olds College (includes chores and class time plus chores on weekends)
March 18 - April 28, 2023: Earn and Learn with trainers at Century Mile Racetrack in Nisku.
- April 29 - June 23, 2023: Paid Practicum
Credential: Non-credit
Registrations: Registrations are accepted as long as seats are available, however it is recommended that you register early as this class is limited to a small number of students to ensure your safety and an optimal learning experience
Required Materials: Appropriate footwear (no running shoes) and clothing suitable for working with horses and variable weather.
Admission Requirements: This is an employment-driven program where Horse Racing Alberta (HRA) is making a commitment to training and hiring professional grooms. Students are expected to maintain a minimum 70% average in order to be licensed by HRA and work in the industry. Students should also be aware that this is a physically demanding program, representative of what would be expected with any subsequent employment in the industry.
Selection Process:
- Small classes promote quality education- applicants will be carefully selected.
- Selected applicants will be contacted for an interview.
What will you learn?
With support from Horse Racing Alberta and industry professionals you will receive your hands on training at the Century Mile Racetrack in Nisku Alberta.
Upon successful completion of this program you will be able to understand horse behaviors, explain the workings of the horse racing industry, develop personal career skills, demonstrate practices for barn safety and cleanliness, demonstrate horse handling techniques for high powered horses, identify and apply horse racing tack, identify equine anatomy and related lameness, apply stable and exercise bandages, perform race day procedures, execute regular health checks on horses, follow protocols for equine medical emergencies, and explain Equine Nutrition!
