Careers in Racing (CiR), the careers marketing arm of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), announced the launch of a new program designed to introduce young people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds to the horseracing industry. Step On Track, which has been developed in response to the lack of BAME representation within several areas of British racing, aims to engage young people from ethnic minorities with the sport, as well as highlighting career opportunities. The program will take place during Black History Month in the October half term (Oct. 26-30) and will include talks from inspirational racing figures, activities and the opportunity to go racing as a group at an appropriate point in the future. Upon completion of the course, the candidates will receive ongoing mentoring and guidance, as well as assistance in finding work experience placements within the industry.
The scheme will initially be open for between 6-12 people by way of a pilot, with the aim of increasing participation in future schemes. Candidates for the pilot event are being sourced in part through racing's links with community groups such as Ebony Horse Club, Urban Equestrian, Gloucester City Riding Club and Park Palace Ponies.
Zoe Elliott, Head of Careers Marketing and Recruitment at the BHA said: “The proportion of BAME representation is an area which many sports are considering at present whether that be at participant, executive or leadership level. Racing is committed to striving to be a diverse and fully inclusive industry, but many are aware that young people from ethnic minorities may not have easily available access to learn about the sport of horseracing. We hope that Step On Track will be a positive initial step to showcase racing both as a sport and as an industry to young people who may not have encountered it before, with the longer term aim of growing the scheme to become a permanent part of our wider program of existing careers marketing activity.”
For more information, contact [email protected].
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