Darley Flying Start

For aspiring young professionals in racing, there can be no better all-round grounding than securing one of the 12 places on the Darley Flying Start programme.

The two-year course is a scholarship offered to all nationalities worldwide, from a variety of backgrounds. The common thread is a passion for racing and a love of the horse.

The deadline for applications for the next intake of 'Flying Starters' is February 19. Those interested should go to the Darley Flying Start website for details on how to apply.

The Darley Flying Start, which commenced in 2003, was the brainchild of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, the Ruler of Dubai, who wanted to encourage young people to study all aspects of the racing and breeding industries, learning from the professionals he employs in his stables and studs worldwide.

Englishman Matt Prior, now an auctioneer with Tattersalls in the UK, came to the Darley Flying Start with a passion for racing but little idea what path he would follow within the industry. "I came to the course with a blank canvas. But I found that it gave me structure as I went through it."

Prior was one of the 'Flying Starters' in 2010-12.

"It was a massive chapter in my life. I had been an event rider, I loved racing and had a keen interest in breeding. During the course, I was advised to apply to Tattersalls for a job, which I did. I have never regretted it," he said.

Working with leading trainers was a highlight for Prior. "Being from a riding background, I loved being hands on, working with Kiaran McLaughlin in America and Peter Snowden in Australia. It opened my eyes.

"They had very different techniques, but both were obsessive in their approach to training. They were impressive guys to work with," he pointed out.

Prior, in his Tattersalls guise, went on to auction horses for the Emirates Racing Association in 2015, an experience in which he takes great pride.

"For me, the DFS (Darley Flying Start) was a life-changing opportunity to learn things in racing I wouldn't otherwise have explored, and to see racing internationally.

"There is also an Alumni that is now extensive. We have access to a range of contacts, who have a shared experience. I am indebted to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed for this great opportunity," he added.

American Hallie Hardy, a native of Kentucky, reckons the DFS has met and exceeded her expectations. The 24-year-old is due to graduate in July 2016 following further stints working in Dubai and Ireland.

"You hear so much about the Darley Flying Start, but you never really know until you have experienced it for yourself. It is much better than I thought it would be.

"Above all else, I have loved the opportunity for being hands-on. I had graduated from the University of Kentucky and also done the Irish National Stud course. But the DFS has given me the chance to meet many skilled professionals and to experience the best international racing.

"To see a Kentucky Derby and a Melbourne Cup in the same year is very special, and I am now looking forward to the Dubai World Cup in March" she added.

Clodagh Kavanagh, who organises and manages the Darley Flying Start, is proud that the course has now earned accreditation with University College Dublin in Ireland, as well as the universities of Sydney and Kentucky.

"The global nature of the course, giving the opportunity to study and work in racing in five countries - racing's main trading nations - in two years, is unique.

"There have been 130 graduates since DFS started, and 120 remain employed in racing.

"The course has evolved over the years. These days there is more emphasis on personal development and communications, as well as the usual wide range of subjects on all aspects of racing," she added.