Trainees who completed their National Certificate in Equine qualifications in 2018 were considered for the Level 3 and Level 4 Trainee of the Year awards. As well as being presented with trophies, NZTBA generously donated gift packs which contained a number of books including copies of Give a Man A Horse, signed by Sir Patrick Hogan and a year's membership to the NZTBA
The winners were Jim Carroll (Windsor Park Stud) who was presented with his award by Rick Williams (General Manager of The Oaks Stud) and David Liebenberg (Westbury Stud Matamata) who received his award from Keith Lunn, president of the Waikato Branch of the NZTBA.
Both Jim and David have travelled great distances to get to the Waikato – Jim from Perth and David from South Africa.
Jim Carroll had barely touched a horse before coming to New Zealand, but his passion for thoroughbred racing, his great work ethic and his attention to detail has seen Jim now hold the position of dry mare manager at Windsor Park Stud. According to stud manager Rodney Schick, Jim is a valued member of the Windsor Park team, who strives for excellence in everything he does.
David Liebenberg had experience in many aspects of the equine industry before arriving here. Westbury's breeding manager Kelvin Hood has appreciated Dave's willingness to step up when needed and doing a great job while studying - words echoed by stud manager Callum Jones, who also completed the qualification some years ago.
NZTR Training adviser Kay Hogan said during their studies, both Jim and David showed great determination, were keen to learn, had an excellent attitude and commitment, all of which made them outstanding recipients of the awards.
The qualifications have a strong emphasis on trainees showing competence in a variety of practical skills relevant to the equine industry, backed up by theory assessments. In the past fifteen months, twenty trainees have completed the Level 3 qualification and six have completed Level 4. Currently 28 trainees throughout the Northern region are enrolled, ten at Level 3 and eighteen at Level 4. Trainees will have a great chance to further improve their skills and knowledge during the annual winter short course which will be run in the Cambridge area on 21, 22 and 23 May. If you would like any further information on these courses please contact Kay Hogan, NZTR Training Advisor kay.hogan@nztr.co.nz.
