Confidence and optimism ran through the room as the new Chief Executive of the British Horseracing Authority, Paul Bittar spoke of his hopes and views to the speakers and delegates of The Racing Industry Course.

Paul was guest speaker at the course dinner held at the Jockey Club Rooms last Thursday night. This was one of the many highlights of the five day British Horseracing Authority programme, hosted by The British Racing School, and sponsored by Lycetts. David Redvers debut talk gave a fascinating insight into the Qipco British Champions Day and his experiences working as Racing Manager to Sheikh Fahad Al Thani resulting in a guest appearance of the 2011 Melbourne Cup!

Further highlights of the week included private viewing of the magnificent stallions at Darley with an excellent tour and discussion by Sam Bullard and Dawn Laidlaw. Earlier in the morning delegates had been shown around Tattersalls by guides including Andrew Meade of Castlebridge Consignment. During the week delegates enjoyed a morning with Ed Dunlop both at his busy yard and out on the gallops watching his two year olds in training on a cold frosty morning.

Monday saw a theatrical performance from Adrian McGlynn, company secretary of Weatherbys which set the bar for the rest of the week. High class presentations from notable speakers such as Rod Street, Chief Executive of Racing For Change; Michael O'Hagan, Chief Executive of the Irish Marketing Board; Nick Luck, journalist and television presenter; Dale Gibson and Michael Hills giving a jockey's perspective on behalf of the Professional Jockey's Association all of which provoked a lively debate and certainly gave the group a chance to air their views to the industry's leading members. A moving presentation by Ian Balding recounting his experiences left the theatre truly inspired by the legendary trainer.

TRIC once again has been an outstanding success and one the British Racing School looks forward to hosting again next year.

Quotes from Delegates;

"The course exceeded my expectations to a very high standard. Recommended to all"

"This course is an absolute must for anyone wanting to understand and expand their knowledge of racing"

"A very useful course and is fundamental to those who want to enter the horse industry. An eye opener into the racing industry, not just the UK, but the industry as a whole"

"Brilliant week. The best week's training I have ever been on, and I have been on plenty!"

The Racing Industry Course will be held at The British Racing School again in 2013. If you are interested in participating, please click here.