Kieran Kourdache scoops top racing prize

Kieran Kourdache who completed his nine week Foundation Course (312X) with the British Racing School has won Employee of the Year at the prestigious Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards.

Following stints as a teacher, Kieran is now Travelling Head Person for Karl Burke and his team at Spigot Lodge and won the Rider / Groom category ahead of clinching the overall title at an awards ceremony at Ascot Racecourse. Renowned for horsemanship and professionalism, as well as great team spirit, Kieran is entrusted with travelling Karl’s horses, including most recently to Qatar. Amongst his career highlights have been taking Fallen Angel to Leopardstown where she Landed a Group 1, as well as Holloway Boy’s unexpected win at Royal Ascot in 2022. He said, “There’s so much pressure in travelling horses and you’re just trying to do the best for them the whole time when they’re away. When it comes off, it’s very, very gratifying.”

Three other British Racing School alumni were also finalists at the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards which are sponsored by Godolphin:

Michelle Kramer was a finalist in the Rider/Groom category and came to the BRS in 2004. She’s still friends with some of the people she met here. After a stint in Lambourn she has been at Paul Nicholls’ since 2008 with career highlights including leading up Frodon as her first Cheltenham Festival runner and winner.

Helen Halliwell was a finalist in the Dedication category and has been working at James Fanshawe’s for over 25 years. Horses closest to her heart include Society Rock and 2020 Breeders Cup Fillies and Mares Turf heroine Audarya. She also contributes a huge amount to the industry through her rehoming of racehorses and work for NARS.

Carrie Sanderson made the final three of the Leadership category and attended  course 106 at the British Racing School. She’s now Head Groom at Karl Burke’s as well where she is renowned for not only her care of the racehorses but mentoring younger staff and creating a great work environment.

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