Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare and drive horses in trials. It includes complying with rules of racing, following instructions, judging pace, and adjusting driving technique according to track conditions.
The unit applies to individuals who are able to drive fast trackwork and use specialised knowledge and practical harness driving skills in the 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. Comply with and complete trial procedures | 1.1 Confirm horses to be driven in trials according to trainer instructions 1.2 Follow directions from stewards and starters 1.3 Verify and follow trainer instructions 1.4 Confirm licence and racing documentation are complete and submitted according to required timeframes |
2. Apply trial driving skills | 2.1 Carry out warm-up and score-up as directed 2.2 Assess potential risks related to track, gear and equipment and horse condition 2.3 Use driving skills according to track conditions and situations 2.4 Judge pace of horse during trial and maintain for required times and distances, according to trainer instructions |
3. Use safe driving skills | 3.1 Apply rules relating to safe, compliant and competitive trial driving during a trial 3.2 Apply appropriate whip use and comply with rules relating to whip use |
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 written trainer instructions, workplace documentation, and relevant rules of racing |
Numeracy | Estimate and calculate speed, distance and time relevant to horse pace and driving |
Oral communication | Listen to instructions, respond to requests and convey information using clear language and industry terminology relating to handling and racing horses |
Navigate the world of work | Adhere to rules of racing and race trial protocols, and follow safe and ethical horse handling and work practices associated with own role |
Interact with others | Follow racing communication protocols and practices when interacting with a range of racing personnel |
Get the work done | Plan and prepare strategies for race trial, considering trainer and racing official instructions, and taking responsibility for decisions Anticipate and respond rapidly to changed circumstances in a trial, including emergency situations |
Sectors
Performance services horse (PSH)