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explore trainer options 

point-to-point keepers (trainers)

In point-to-point racing, trainers are also known as ‘keepers’. A keeper is responsible for preparing a horse to race, from welfare, fitness and schooling to ensuring the horse is ready to perform on the day.

You don’t need to be a professional racehorse trainer to take part in point-to-pointing. Many owners choose to train their own horse, while others prefer to have their horse trained by a registered keeper who has the experience and facilities to get the best out of their horse.

Importantly, licensed trainers under rules are not permitted to run horses in point-to-points, other than those that are owned by family or staff members. This keeps the sport true to its grassroots spirit and ensures it remains accessible for owners, riders, and keepers at every level.

Apply for a Hunter Certificate

Assistant Trainer or Stable Staff

Start Your Journey to becoming a trainer

Point-to-pointing is an excellent way to start a career in racing as an assistant trainer or member of stable staff.

Working in a yard allows you to learn from experienced trainers, gain hands-on knowledge of horse care and understand the daily routines and responsibilities involved in preparing a horse for racing. Many licensed trainers begin their careers this way, learning essential skills in grooming, schooling, fitness, animal welfare and race preparation.

Starting as an assistant or stable staff member offers a pathway that combines practical experience with mentorship, giving you the insight and confidence to progress in the racing world.

Explore vacancies in the racing industry  JOB OPPORTUNITIES

 

licensed under rules Trainer

Pointing: A Starting Point for Future Trainers

Many of today’s leading professional racehorse trainers first learned their craft in point-to-pointing. Training a point-to-pointer provides the perfect grounding, offering hands-on experience in every aspect of preparing a horse, from fitness and schooling to race planning and horse care.

In fact, over 35% of professional trainers began with point-to-point horses before moving into the professional ranks. Pointing gives aspiring trainers the chance to learn the ropes, develop their horsemanship and build valuable experience before completing their modules and applying for a professional trainer’s licence.

Some of the biggest names in the sport started out in the pointing field — either training or riding in the saddle – including Nicky Henderson, Paul Nicholls, Sir Mark Prescott, Dan Skelton, and Fergal O’Brien, to name a few.

Point-to-pointing is not only grassroots racing at its purest — it’s also a proven launchpad for the next generation of professional trainers.

how to become a professional Trainer

Testimonials

TRAINER
FAQs

Can anyone train a pointer?

NO

You must be 16 years of age or older

What do I need to train a pointer?

THAT’S UP TO YOU

There are no specific requirements although ideally you should have easy access to training facilities and gallops. You should know what’s needed to get a horse fit as training standards in pointing improve year on year

You also need to make yourself aware of BHA Regulations and Instructions for point-to-points

Do I need to register to be a trainer?

NO

Although you will need to supply your full details on the Hunter Certificate

How do I register a horse to run in point-to-points?

To run in point-to-points every horse must register a Hunter Certificate with Weatherbys. The Hunter Certificate is registered annually

Apply for a Hunter Certificate

How do I enter a horse for a race?

If the horse has a registered Hunter Certificate you can quickly and easily enter by calling the Point-to-Point entries team at Weatherbys on 01933 304-795

or online via  ENTER FOR A RACE ONLINE

 

Am I bound by any rules?

YES

At all times you are bound by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) Regulations & Instructions for Point-to-Point Steeplechases

Can any horse run in a point-to-point?

NO

Only thoroughbreds with a registered Hunter Certificate can run in point-to-points. Some horses which have previously won under rules are not qualified to run in point-to-points