A pilot scheme to attract horse-keen youngsters into the racing industry will be rolled out across the country.
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing announced the move yesterday along with several initiatives aimed to help young people establish their careers in racing.
The Ride To Time Programme, trialled with success at Wingatui earlier this year, gives pony club riders a hands-on taste of the inner workings of the racing industry.
Wingatui hosted 12 young horse enthusiasts in the programme's pilot scheme stage, while another 12 learned the ropes of racing over two days at Riccarton.
With the rollout of the programme nationally, NZTR hopes to boost the number of participants from 24 to 200.
Wingatui will also soon have the latest technology available to help riders hone their craft.
NZTR announced it plans to purchase 10 riding simulators to be placed around the country for the use of jockeys and their riding coaches.
Wingatui and Ascot Park racecourses will each house one of the simulators which retail at $2656. The devices are seen as an important tool for both experienced and rookie jockeys to be able to work on their balance and control in the saddle.
The English-made simulators are also a key piece of strength and fitness equipment that can help riders be physically ready for their race-day mounts.
The machines will also be placed at the Pukekohe, Cambridge, Awapuni and Riccarton racing centres.
Young trainers will also benefit from the initiatives announced yesterday.
NZTR intends to initiate a licence fee rebate programme for trainers under the age of 30. There are 40 trainers nationwide who fit the criteria.
They could save $455 to $575 on their licensing fees through the scheme.
