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What is a Yearling Manager?
A Thoroughbred Yearling Manager is responsible for the care, development, education, and preparation of yearlings—young Thoroughbreds aged between 12 and 24 months, typically being readied for major sales (like Karaka or Inglis), or early training.
Some of the key responsibilities of a Yearling Manager include:
- Daily Yearling Care
- Education & Handling
- Sales Preparation
- Coordinates presentation training
- Health & Development Monitoring
- Staff & Barn Management
- Owner & Sales Liaison
This role is central to maximizing the future racing and commercial value of each horse.
Steps to becoming a Yearling Manager
- Good communication skills
- Ability to follow instructions and report back
- In depth knowledge of horse care and welfare
- Good record keeping skills
- Competent at handling young horses
- Conscious of health and safety
- Great organisational skills
- Prior experience and a willingness to learn on job
- NZ Certificate in Equine Breeding (Level 3/4) – or willingness to work towards these
BREEDING CAREERS
Gateway courses offering path into breeding industry
The Gateway programme introduces subjects outside of the general school curriculum, including trades, social work and agriculture. NZEET, a private industry-owned establishment, offers the New Zealand Equine Breeding Courses, commencing from a 13-month certificate, up to a professional apprenticeship.
Brad Molander
Young Gun Brad Molander has been an integral part of Wentwood Grange as Yearling Manager for a number of years, and he was recently recognised for his contribution to the local breeding industry as recipient of the LOVERACING.NZ Mary Lynne Ryan Young Achiever Award. Born and raised in the racing industry, Brad began working in stud farms as a teenager which has taken him throughout the world. Starting his role with Wentwood Grange in 2016, Brad has a passion for developing future athletes as well as industry participants.