Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare new or inexperienced drivers for the specific requirements of controlling horses in trackwork using well-educated standardbred horses, at beginner driver speed, not trackwork speed.
The unit applies to individuals who perform routine tasks under supervision within the harness racing industry.
All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, in accordance with applicable state/territory animal welfare and workplace health and safety legislative requirements.
Licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit. Users are advised to check with the relevant Principal Racing Authority (PRA) for current requirements.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Identify trackwork requirements | 1.1 Recognise and use industry terminology relating to exercising standardbred horses 1.2 Measure trackwork speeds and distances 1.3 Verify trackwork instructions 1.4 Clarify reasons for any subsequent modifications to instructions with supervisor 1.5 Check gear and equipment, including personal protective equipment according workplace policies and procedures |
2. Complete warm-up and cool-down procedures | 2.1 Complete pre-drive safety checks according to workplace practices 2.2 Carry out warm-up and cool-down exercises in line with safe practices and according to workplace procedures 2.3 Carry out post-exercise activities for horse and gear according to workplace procedures |
3. Control horses before, during and after exercise | 3.1 Mount sulky safely 3.2 Exercise horses as instructed by supervisor 3.3 Recognise gaits of the horse on and off the horse 3.4 Dismount sulky safely 3.5 Use safe horse handling techniques under supervision, for nervous or excited horses |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Reading | Interpret key information in written instructions and workplace or venue requirements |
Oral communication | Use questioning and active listening skills to clarify and confirm instructions |
Navigate the world of work | Follow workplace procedures, including work health and safety and animal welfare requirements, associated with own role |
Interact with others | Follow accepted communication practices and protocols in stable and wider racing industry when working with others |
Get the work done | Follow clearly defined instructions to identify and sequence tasks and assemble equipment required for jog drive work and care for horses |
Sectors
Performance services horse (PSH)