National Stud student Zac Castledine reflects on how accessible education and opportunity are helping young people build futures in British racing

I’m Zac Castledine, and I’m currently completing the Level 3 course at The National Stud after graduating from the British Horseracing Authority Development Programme in 2024. Looking back, it’s hard to believe how a chance meeting between my mum and the Chairman of the Racecourse Association while she was on holiday first introduced me to the Development Programme — and ultimately, to a career in racing.

The Programme led to my first introduction to Newmarket, a place I hadn’t even realised was home to so much more than just two racecourses. That visit completely changed everything. Watching the strings of racehorses galloping up Warren Hill alongside Sir Mark Prescott early one morning, I knew I’d found my calling. Since then, I’ve been lucky enough to continue learning and developing my career here in Newmarket — the iconic home of British horseracing.

My personal journey

Taking part in the BHA Development Programme gave me my first real understanding of just how many people and professions make up this industry. Behind every raceday are teams working in training, education, welfare, marketing and events, and seeing that opened my eyes to how many different routes there are into the sport.

Since then, my time at The National Stud has built on that foundation, developing both practical and professional skills. One of the highlights so far has been working with a consignor during the Tattersalls Book 1 and 2 yearling sales, a demanding but hugely rewarding experience. The preparation process required precision, professionalism and real attention to detail to ensure each horse was presented to the highest standard for prospective buyers. It was fast-paced and challenging, but the experience gave me a real sense of accomplishment and greatly enhanced my confidence in handling thoroughbreds.

Next generation front and centre

This year, as part of the National Stud course, our group attended the Racing Foundation Conference, which brought together people from across the sport to discuss racing’s future. It was inspiring to be in a room with so many respected voices and to hear first-hand the passion for developing and supporting the next generation.

Courses like the BHA Development Programme and The National Stud don’t just teach technical skills; they provide the exposure, connections and confidence needed to take those next steps. Experiences like these open doors across the industry and show that racing is open to anyone who’s willing to learn, work hard and get involved.

Opening doors for the next generation

For racing to keep moving forward, it needs to continue investing in accessible, structured routes for young people. Everyone’s journey looks different, but initiatives like the ones I’ve experienced show how powerful the right opportunity can be in helping people find their footing, build networks and develop lasting careers.

The most rewarding part of my journey so far has been meeting others at the same stage, people who share the same energy and commitment to improving the future of racing. That sense of community and shared purpose is what keeps me motivated.

This industry has so much to give, and this should start by engaging as many communities as possible to come to a racecourse, racing yard or stud, to showcase how brilliant this industry can really be. We MUST be proactive.

If I could offer one piece of advice to anyone thinking about joining the industry, it would be this: say yes to every opportunity and never stop asking questions. Every experience teaches you something new, and you never know where the next one might lead.