It’s been a season full of hands-on learning for our BSET Academy students, from farriery insights and bitting fundamentals to racecourse behind-the-scenes access and a well-loved visit from Beth Shaw. Each experience has added another layer to how our students understand and care for horses, reinforcing that real learning happens when knowledge is shared, questioned, and applied in the field.
Jacques Kruger Spoke on Conditions of the Equine Hindlimb
Jacques Kruger (ASF CJF DipWCF) gave the students valuable insight into hindlimb conditions in equines and how they affect performance, soundness, and overall wellbeing. His extensive experience and deep knowledge of farriery made for a captivating session.
The talk was a great reminder of how important it is to collaborate and learn from different people in the equine industry. When we pool knowledge together, we can make the most rounded, well-informed decisions for our horses. BSET Academy thoroughly enjoyed the morning learning from him Jacques Kruger!
First Years’ Trip to Bombers Equestrian
The annual trip to Bombers Equestrian was very eye-opening for the students and highlighted how influential bitting choices are on a horse’s experience under saddle. The day was spent learning about the fundamentals of oral anatomy, how the different bit shapes and mechanisms translate into pressure, and browsing through the extensive range of bits that Bombers produces to ensure the correct match for every horse.
Bombers values the comfort and suitability of every individual and puts the horse’s wellbeing at the centre of every bitting decision. The students were reminded that the horses’ comfort and understanding are vital to their performance and wellbeing. Our thanks go out to Bombers Equestrian for generously sharing their expertise and helping us deepen our understanding of bitting.
Beth Shaw’s Visit
Beth had a lovely visit to the farm at the end of last semester, where she examined the Second Years’ Case Study presentations and the First Years’ SUMCHI practical exams. As a learning experience, the Second Years present their most interesting cases at the end of every semester. They share their treatment findings, present their research and reflect on the journey they had with their field horses.
During her time on the farm, Beth shared her wealth of knowledge with the students and left everyone having soaked up something new. She sparked discussions on new theories and shared the histories in Winks Greenes’ journals. It’s always a privilege to have her visit and teach in person, Beth sharpens their skills and transforms the students each time.
Birgit Schröder’s Fleur De Ling Winning at Hollywoodbets Greyville
Racecourse
Fleur De Ling, owned by Birgit Schröder, had a special win at the end of August. She claimed her first win at Greyville Racecourse in Race 8 – Hollywoodbets Bright Future Class 4 (F & M). Onwards and upwards for Birgit and Ling! BSET Academy are very proud and wish them nothing but success in the future!
A Day at Hollywoodbets Scottsville Racecourse
The first years spent a day immersed in the world of racing at Hollywoodbets Scottsville Racecourse, experiencing everything from the parade ring to the starting stalls. They went behind the scenes with racing officials, learning how race footage is reviewed and how decisions are made around disputes or rule violations. They had an up-close look at the horses at the starting stalls, and the opportunity to watch them finish from their own box.
They saw firsthand just how much effort and organisation goes into race day, and came away realising this is only a fraction of the work the racing industry puts in. Every other day, there is an extensive amount of training, preparation, and care that goes into each racehorse to ensure they are able to perform at their best.