OUR NEW APPRENTICE JOCKEYS: GIADA ARNESE, A DREAM COME TRUE

A few days ago at the San Rossore racecourse, twelve young people from various regions were qualified as apprentice jockeys thanks to a competition organised by the Region of Tuscany. The Alfea Society is committed to training people in the horse racing sector, with the hope of preparing valid future professionals, and the General Management of horse racing wants to emphasise this initiative, which has been sponsored by MASAF.

Giada Arnese is a 19-year-old girl from Legnano who attended the apprentice jockey course in Pisa San Rossore. She has a diploma in agricultural technology and a passion for horses, passed on to her by her father, who always took her to watch the races at the Le Bettole racecourse in Varese. A future jockey who can't wait to get out there and compete on the track against her future colleagues: despite being very shy, she seems very determined. She answers our questions in a faint voice.

Giada, why did you decide to train to become a jockey?

Since I was a child I've always dreamt of being around thoroughbred horses. In fact, for a few years I took riding lessons and then my dad encouraged me even more by taking me to the gallop races in Varese.

What was the course like?

It was a great experience. I learnt all about horses and life at the stables, and learnt a lot of terminology and about the history of horse racing. We studied the rules of racing, farriery, veterinary science and feeding. Six hours a day of intense study from 8.30 to 14.30 for four months. We did the practical lessons on a mechanical horse.

Did you all pass?

Yes.

You weren't the only girl, were you?

There were two other girls with me.

Young boys usually have idols: who are yours?

Dario Di Tocco, who came out of the school in Pisa, Dario Vargiu and I must mention Frankie Dettori. And I also really admire the British jockey Hollie Doyle, a true champion, much feared by many of her male colleagues.

What do you like about the world of horse racing?

I like to see the horses arrive at full speed on the home straight, how they position themselves and the audience cheering them on.

But aren't you afraid of going at over 50 km/h on tip-toe on the stirrups?

No, not afraid. That's exactly what I like, high speed.

Have you already made contact with a racehorse?

Yes, in the morning I rode one of the trainer Marco Gonnelli's horses. In the meantime, I'm trying to be a groom.

Who encouraged you to do the course?

My dad first of all, and then Marco Gonnelli who told me that I'm suited to being around racehorses. He believes in me.

And what did your dad say?

He's happy because I'm continuing his passion and he dreams that once I've got my licence, he'll see me make my debut in a race dedicated to us young hopefuls.