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

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