Sidra is twenty-four years old and from Northamptonshire. She graduated with a first-class degree in Film & Television from Solent University which unfortunately was greatly impacted by the pandemic.
This has spurred her on to try and gather a vast range of practical experiences in various filmmaking industries. She loves learning new things and is interested to learn more about the competitive nature of horse racing.
She applied to the RMA because of the opportunity to learn with the vast range of media/broadcast companies and to understand more about the coverage and platforms concerning the world of horse racing. She would love to learn how the racing media in general is trying to broaden its horizons and reach new audiences, whilst not isolating its deep longstanding relationship with its traditional audience.
Sidra hopes to learn more about the sport of horse racing, as well as the practical and technical skills required to operate and broadcast the coverage of races and more.
The RMA has quite literally changed my lifefor the better. Before even stepping onto the course, once I had been accepted, I managed to land myself a job as a camera operator at Towcester Racecourse because I had mentioned I would be training with RaceTech and the RMA.
The week in Newmarket was intense-a lot of terminology to learn about as well as the sport in general. I had no idea that the sport was so complex, and I am still learning so much more day by day. I really enjoyed getting to learn from and interact with almost all of our guest speakers who work in the racing media. It is such a rare honour and unique privilege to be able to take something away from each day from the best in the industry. I’m also incredibly grateful to have attended my first meeting with the RMA and of course Lee, Josh and Cath (as well as texts from Abby!) who were so kind and generous with their explanation of the day and sport.
I’ve loved my placement with RaceTech. I was really eager to observe each area of production at Warwick, from photofinish to engineering, cameras and directing. I then started to get more involved with lifting kit on site and going to HQ to understand the media and archival services the company provides. I have really appreciated the kindness and time spent with both staff and freelancers, who answered any question I had and gave invaluable advice. I would love to give OB4 a shoutout as I ended up working with them for a significant portion of my placement and felt very supported and looked after!
I am excited and hopeful about where my career will go after this placement and would love to encourage anyone to apply to the RMA even if they have no knowledge or connection to the sport itself. I think immersing yourself into something new is challenging yet so rewarding and worthwhile-you get to learn so much more when you are pushed out of your comfort zone. It has also been a great way to learn how different sports use and interact with the media in their own way and it connects you with so many people in the different screen industries than you might realise. If you do apply, know that you will be supported by great people in Lee, Cath, Abby and Josh who will endeavour to see you make the most of this experience!
