Training Instructor
Phil has been a Training Instructor, since September 2017
Phil’s career in the horseracing industry began in 1999 when he attended the 10-week Foundation Course at National Horseracing College (previously known as the Northern Racing College). Interestingly Phil had no prior knowledge or experience working with horses or within the racing industry before he arrived.
Phil was brought up in Doncaster, and it was through a family friend and a paper round that Phil was introduced into the world of Horseracing and the NHC.
In 2002 Phil became an Apprentice Jockey and was fortunate enough to ride for some excellent trainers such as Mr Henry Candy, Mr John Balding & Mr Mick Mullineaux.
Phil decided to hang his race riding boots up after a battle with his weight, this was after he had been lucky enough to ride and work in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Hong Kong, and Macau. He then became more interested in the daily running, organising, and training of racehorses, and he became Head Lad to the Late Mr David Brown. During this role he continued to develop his knowledge and skills, including working with talented Royal Ascot winner, and Group 2 winner Frederick Engles. In the past Phil has been lucky to work with some incredibly talented horses such as Airwave, Kyllachy, Wind Fire, and globe trotter Doncaster Rover.
Alongside working at the NHC, Phil was also a retained firefighter.
The qualifications Phil has achieved whilst at the NHC include:-
Phil quoted “One of the best parts of the job for me is still been closely linked to the horseracing industry, whilst making a difference to young people’s lives, helping attract and sustain the racing workforce.
I also have the huge pleasure of working with such a diverse and amazing equine team, they all have their ways and little quirks but that’s what makes them so special, without them we would not be able to do our job and get the results we do for the horseracing industry.”
Phil’s interests out of work include Metal Detecting, and following the swimming career of his Daughter Millie, who swims for her local Club, Armthorpe, and competes on a regular basis.
Phil still lives in Doncaster with his wife Sam, daughter Millie and dog Eric.
Contact: p.varley@theNHC.co.uk
