Agri Aware and Equuip crowned students from Coláiste an Chreagáin in Co Galway as the National Champions of the transition year programme From Foal to Race on Wednesday, May 13, at the Racing Academy and Centre of Education in Co Kildare.
Agri Aware, the agri-food educational body, is a charitable trust aiming to enhance agricultural literacy among the public, while Equuip is the industry education and training department of Horse Racing Ireland.
From Foal to Race is Agri Aware and Equuip’s transition year programme, providing students with insight into the careers involved in the industry.
Students Tanya Mannion, Mischa Moran and Caitlin Flynn won the programme’s first-ever Showcase with their project, ‘Bridging the Gap Between Equine Health and Data Analytics’.
During the competition, the judges were impressed by the team’s innovative smart halter concept, which collects and transmits real-time health data from a horse directly to its owner and veterinarian.
Second place was awarded to Coláiste Treasa, Co Cork, for their project titled ‘A Day in the Life at a Racing Yard’. Third place went to Coláiste De Lacy, Co Meath, for their project ‘Equine Equality’.
The equine-focused programme is now finishing its fourth year. On the day, 12 finalist projects were presented by students, showcasing their learnings from the programme.
Speaking at the From Foal to Race Showcase, Agri Aware Vice Chairman Jim Mulhall said: “We are delighted to host our first-ever From Foal to Race Showcase, giving students the opportunity to bring their learnings from the programme to life by presenting innovative ideas and solutions aimed at enhancing the horse racing industry.”
Commenting on the winning project, Equuip Curriculum Development and Standards Manager Stephanie Scully, said: “Congratulations to all the students who took part in this year’s From Foal to Race Showcase.
“The creativity, passion and innovation on display were incredibly impressive, and the winning project from Coláiste an Chreagáin demonstrated a brilliant understanding of how technology can support equine welfare and performance.
“Many thanks to Agri Aware for a successful collaboration, and to our judges on the day, including jockey Ricky Doyle. It is hugely encouraging to see young people engaging so positively with the future of the Irish equine and racing industry.”
