Introduction

Fred Packard was a much respected Trustee of The British Racing School from 1997 until his death in 2009. During this time he took particular interest in the young people involved in training at the School. As a result, following his death, his family have generously agreed to fund an annual Scholarship in his name.

Objective of the Scholarship

The aim of the Scholarship is to provide an opportunity to a young person who works in a trainer's yard in the UK to spend 4 months in a trainer's yard in Australia or South Africa. It is intended that this experience will develop their personal skills, experience and character and as a result, enhance their potential to progress to a position of responsibility in a trainer's yard.

What the Scholarship Consists Of

The winner will spend 4 months with a top trainer in either Australia or South Africa. The trainer will be asked to provide as wide as possible experience of racing in that country which meets the objectives of the Scholarship and will enhance the winner's career prospects as a result. The winner will be expected to act as an ambassador for British racing and which reflects well on the Scholarship and the generosity of the Packard family. On return, the winner will be required to write a report for the Management Committee summarising their activity and what they feel they gained. The Scholarship will provide funds for the following:

- Flights to either Australia/South Africa
- Internal flights
- Salary for 4 months (at the rate paid by the UK trainer)
- Incidental expenses allowance (£100 a week)

The trainer in Australia/South Africa will be required to provide accommodation during the stay.

Applications

Applications will only be accepted on the formal application form. An electronic version is attached. A hard copy can be requested from the Executive Assistant at The British Racing School. The application must be accompanied by at least two references, including one fro the current employer. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

- Under 25 years of age
- Have worked for the same employer for at least 3 years
- Have achieved an Apprenticeship or Advanced Apprenticeship through the BRS
- Have potential to progress to positions of responsibility in a trainer's yard.

Selection

Selection of the winner will be made by the Management Committee which consists of:

Mrs Dulce Packard
William Haggas
Sir Mark Prescott Bt
Richard Onslow
Rory MacDonald

The BRS will provide the administrative support to the Management Committee.

The closing date for applications for 2011 will be 30 September 2011.

2010 Winner... Laura Morgan

Laura spent her 4 month working holiday in Australia, with leading trainer Peter Moody and had the opportunity to work with horses such as Black Cavier.

Download Laura's report from her trip below.