Tom is originally from Bournemouth. From a very young age, horse racing has been a huge passion of his, not only the race riding aspect but also the media, so when an opportunity arose with the Racing Media Academy, it enabled him the potential to explore other avenues that he would not otherwise have had access to.
Not from a racing background, it was initially difficult for him to gain any experience, but he has persevered. He has worked as a Stable Lad, progressing to becoming a Jockey and, more recently, as a Pupil Assistant. He hopes he can use his experiences, both good and bad, to show where he believes we can improve to bring more people from every background into the sport.
Although he has good knowledge and insight into racing, he has yet to experience the presentation skills and production of these programmes we see on social media and TV. He can’t wait to learn and improve with all the tuition and mentoring that will be on offer.
The RMA experience once was one I’ll never forget.
Having worked in the Horse Racing industry for the past 12 years, this was a completely new experience and learnt so much in the week we had in Newmarket.
During this week we had so many people from within the racing media offer advice and you make so many contacts to help you progress in whatever route you decide to go. One thing that really stood out for me was for some people on the course, the stable and stud visits were some of the best days they have ever had, and I think as an industry this proves we can do a whole lot more to make Racing more inclusive to everyone.
I was lucky enough to have my placement with Sky Sports Racing and everyone there was so helpful.
Throughout the 6 weeks I was given so many opportunities to see how the channel is so successful and makes you realise how much work goes in to creating the shows from the directors, producers and presenters.
I have made so many contacts through this course and for anyone contemplating going for the course, no matter what your background just go for it! It is an experience I will never forget and have now since been given so many opportunities and that’s all thanks to everyone at the RMA.
