Horse Racing Alberta and Olds College introduce the new “Professional Racetrack Groom” Course! The Professional Racetrack Groom Course is a “Learn and Earn” concept program that will give students the confidence and skill to become a professional licensed Grooms at Alberta Horse Racing Tracks!

There was much disappointment that our long standing Olds College programs were being suspended due to lack of enrollment. In discussion with Olds College, Horse Racing Alberta chose a new approach to allow students to start earning a wage sooner, while still learning the competencies to make them professional Grooms. This will give our Trainers the help in the barns earlier in the season, but also allowing the students to practice what they’ve learned.

This unique program is offered in a blended way that will allow students to study online, learn from and practice their skills with industry professional instructors, all while allowing them to earn a wage working in the industry! They will acquire the skills you need to provide intensive professional care to elite race horses.

With support from Horse Racing Alberta and industry professionals this program will be offered at the new Century Mile Racetrack in Nisku Alberta. Upon successful completion of this program students will be able to understand horse behaviors, explain the workings of the horse racing industry, develop personal career skills, demonstrate practices for barn safety and cleanliness, demonstrate horse handling techniques for high powered horses, identify and apply horse racing tack, identify equine anatomy and related lameness, apply stable and exercise bandages, perform race day procedures, execute regular health checks on horses, follow protocols for equine medical emergencies, and explain equine nutrition!

Horse Racing Alberta is committed to protect the health, safety, and welfare of racehorses in the province of Alberta. Education is the key to safeguard the interests of the racing participants, racehorses, and the general public. We are excited about the program being rolled out in February of 2020, and looking to provide more learning opportunities for our members.

The Professional Racetrack Groom program runs February 18th – July 3rd inclusive.

• February 18 - March 13, 2020: Online (instructor guided in Moodle)
• March 16 - March 27, 2020: Face-to-face at Century Mile Racetrack in Nisku (includes chores and class time, 8+ hrs. per day, plus chores on the weekends)
•  March 30 - July 3, 2020: Earn and Learn with trainers at Century Mile Racetrack in Nisku. Face-to-face classes three afternoons per week until April 24th, then two classes per week during race season, until June 19)

For more information and to register go to Professional Racetrack Groom course or call 1-800-661-6537, or 403-556-4740 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.