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What is a Starter?
A Starter is the official in charge of the start of a race. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that all horses get a fair, safe, and orderly start from the starting gates (barriers). The Starter plays a vital role in the integrity of the race.
Some of the key responsibilities of a Starter include:
- Controls the Start of the Race
- Monitors Horse and Rider Readiness
- Declares False Starts (If Needed)
- Supervises Barrier Attendants
The Starter in Thoroughbred racing is the official who controls the beginning of each race, ensuring that every horse has a fair, equal, and safe start. They supervise the loading process, assess horse and jockey readiness, and trigger the start gates at just the right moment.
Steps to becoming a Starter
- Confident in handling horses
- Previous race day riding experience is advantageous
- Sound knowledge of the Rules of Racing
- Ability to work as a team
- Understands starting rules and procedures
- Industry experience
- Punctual
- Quick thinker
- Problem solver
- Confident in giving orders and backing decisions
- Up to date with the fields and requirements for certain horses
- Aware of safety of all persons at all times
- Ability to identify and remove hazards
- Accredited Persons Racecourse Pass