Nominations sought for Fred Packard Scholarship

Aspiring young jockeys could benefit from a stint in either Australia or South Africa, thanks to the British Racing School (BRS).

The BRS is encouraging trainers who employ graduates from the Newmarket school to nominate eligible riders for the annual Fred Packard Scholarship.

The scholarship provides young riders in the racing industry with the opportunity to be posted to either Australia or South Africa for up to four months.

The winner will spend that time with one of the country’s leading trainers. There they will gain valuable experience of life in a racing yard in another part of the world, with travel, salary and an expenses allowance provided.

A BRS spokesman said: “Fred Packard was a trustee from 1997 until his death in 2009. During that time he took great pleasure in being involved with the training of young people for a life in the racing industry. Fred’s commitment to this cause has been honoured by his family through their generous sponsorship of this award in his name.”

The first two winners of the Fred Packard Scholarship were Laura Morgan, an employee of Chris Bealby, and Catrin Eynon, from Colin Tizzard’s yard. Both spent their time abroad in Australia with Peter Moody, trainer of unbeaten mare Black Caviar. The most recent winner was Shannon Gates, based with Linda Jewell, who is currently working in South Africa for trainer Alistair Gordon.

Nominees must have achieved a Level 2 Apprenticeship at the BRS and be under 25. The closing date for nominations is Monday 30 September.

Forms for the 2013/14 Fred Packard Scholarship are available on www.brs.org.uk.