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What is a Horse Float Driver?
A horse float driver is a person responsible for transporting horses safely using a horse float (also known as a horse trailer) attached to a vehicle, or sometimes a horse truck. In Thoroughbred racing, they play a key role in moving horses between stables, training centres, trials, racecourses, and breeding farms.
Some of the key responsibilities of a Horse Float Driver include:
- Horse Transport
- Horse Handling & Care
- Vehicle & Equipment Management
- Compliance & Records
- Professional Conduct
A horse float driver ensures horses are transported safely, calmly, and efficiently between key destinations. Their work is vital to racing operations, requiring both competent driving and skilled horse handling to protect equine welfare and ensure horses arrive ready to perform.
Steps to becoming a Horse Float Driver
- Strong horse handling skills
- Calm and confident around nervous or spirited horses
- Experienced in safe towing and defensive driving
- Good time management — racing has strict arrival deadlines
- Knowledge of equine behaviour and welfare needs
- Physical capability — handling horses and gear
- Works well independently and under pressure