Racing to School welcomed visitors from Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences and the Southern Ostrobothnia Horse Breeding Association to Kempton Park earlier this month as part of its work collaborating with overseas jurisdictions. The group had reached out to the charity as part of a Finnish project encouraging young people to discover new ways of engaging with horses. Representing a variety of equestrian backgrounds including trotting racing, bloodstock, and western riding, they were eager to explore British horseracing for the first time.
The charity developed a unique programme of events to offer an exclusive insight into the sport, with behind-the-scenes access taking the visitors to areas not usually open to the public. The group explored the Weighing Room, learning about the unique aspects of British racing tack, equipment and race-day procedures, and met the stewards to gain insight into their roles. In the stables, they observed trainer Gary Moore’s horses being prepared for racing, before moving through the parade ring and onto the track to see first-hand the care, scale and preparation involved in maintaining the course.
Susanna Hakkareinen, Programme Lead: “It was inspiring to see the way Racing to School engages young people with horseracing, and the visit provided our group with valuable ideas to take back to Finland.
“For many, it was the first time experiencing British racing, as our background is in trot racing, and the day offered a completely new perspective on the sport. We saw first-hand the high standards of care for the horses and the integrity and regulation that underpin racing in Britain. It was an outstanding visit, and our time at Kempton Park with the Racing to School team was a true highlight of our trip.”
Ollie McPhail, Racing to School’s Programme Manager, said: “Welcoming our Finnish visitors to Kempton Park offered a unique chance to explore British racing from an entirely new perspective. From the stables to the track, the group gained a first-hand understanding of the sport’s roles, operations, and rich heritage, and we hope this experience will spark a lasting interest in horseracing. Experiences like this are central to Racing to School’s mission – opening doors to horseracing, especially to our new connections overseas.”
The afternoon concluded with the opportunity to experience the thrill of live racing from the comfort of the Lanzarote Suite, generously provided by Kempton Park. The day provided an unforgettable experience leaving the group inspired by their introduction to British racing.
Racing to School is grateful to The Jockey Club and Kempton Park for their warm welcome and support in making this international visit possible.