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What is a Farrier?
A Farrier is a highly skilled specialist who cares for the hooves of racehorses, ensuring they are balanced, healthy, and properly shod for both training and racing. Because thoroughbreds are elite athletes, the farrier’s role is vital in maintaining soundness, preventing injury, and maximizing performance.
Some of the key responsibilities of a Farrier include:
- Hoof Care & Trimming
- Shoeing for Racing
- Corrective & Therapeutic Shoeing
- Injury Prevention & Maintenance
- Collaboration with the Training Team
A thoroughbred racehorse farrier is the hoof-care expert of the racing industry, combining blacksmithing skills with equine biomechanics knowledge. Their precision work directly affects a racehorse’s soundness, safety, and performance on the track.
Steps to becoming a Farrier
- Experience handling horses
- Physically fit and strong with stamina
- Good hand-eye coordination
- Ability to operate tools and equipment
- Good communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Excellent problem-solving skills
- Self-disciplined and motivated
- Ability to self manage
- Business management skills
- Patient and empathetic
- Certificate in Farriery Practice (CFP) – Apprenticeship
- Accredited Persons Racecourse Pass
REHABILITATION CAREERS
Farrier
In every stage of a thoroughbred’s life, farriers are a crucial and consistent presence to ensure the welfare of the horse, and New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing were thrilled to give back to these individuals through sponsorship at the recent New Zealand Farrier Association National Finals.