Barrier Attendant

A Barrier Attendant is a specially trained raceday staff member responsible for loading horses safely into the starting gates (barriers) and ensuring a safe and orderly start to the race. They play a critical safety and handling role at the starting point of every race.

Some of the key responsibilities of a Barrier Attendant include:

• Load Horses into the Starting Gates
• Hold or Steady the Horse
• Ensure Horse and Rider Safety
• Work with the Starter

A Barrier Attendant in Thoroughbred racing ensures that horses are safely loaded, settled, and ready for a clean start. They work under pressure in a physically demanding and high-risk environment and are essential for safe, fair, and efficient racing.