‘That long awaited race’ wins top price for TY student

A Transition Year student was recently joined by some of her classmates at Roscommon Racecourse for the presentation of the overall national prize in the From Foal to Race Transition Year programme.

Martina Agulló González, a Transition Year student at Athlone Community College was named the winner of the 2024 From Foal to Race Transition Year programme with her artwork submission titled ‘That long awaited race’.

With English not being Martina’s first language, she expressed her knowledge gained from the programme through beautifully crafted artwork.

As national winner of the programme, Martina won €1,000 for her school presented to her by Agri Aware Executive Director Marcus O’Halloran and equuip’s Heather Downey alongside her class during a VIP behind-the-scenes trip to Roscommon Racecourse before the end of school term.

The From Foal to Race TY programme was established in 2022 by Agri Aware and equuip, Horse Racing Ireland’s education and training division.

Speaking at the prizegiving ceremony at Roscommon Racecourse, Agri Aware Executive Director Marcus O’Halloran said: “First of all, congratulations to Martina on her fantastic artwork that was chosen as the worthy winner for 2024.

“The From Foal to Race programmes gives great opportunities for students to learn all about the horse racing industry here in Ireland and the journey of the thoroughbred horse from a foal to competing on the racecourse whilst giving students the opportunity to express what they learned in many different forms such as Martina’s artwork.

“The programme in 2024 saw schools from 26 counties register, seeing over 4,400 across 18 schools join us on the From Foal to Race journey.

“Well done to Martina once again and to all students and their teachers for their excellent submissions this year. We look forward to rolling out the programme once again for the upcoming academic year.” 

Manager of equuip, Elaine Burke said: “Since its inception, The From Foal to Race programme has gone from strength to strength. Our partnership with Agri Aware offers us a unique platform to engage with second level students, to enhance their understanding of the horse racing and breeding industry and the many career options available.

“Big congratulations must go to Martina – she is a hugely talented artist and we were delighted she and her classmates enjoyed the programme so much.” 

Also speaking at the prizegiving ceremony was Martina’s teacher Meghan Murphy. She said: “The From Foal to Race programme by Agri Aware and equuip proved to be an incredibly informative module, offering students a unique insight into the world of horse racing.

“We were particularly thrilled to see Martina win the competition with her beautiful drawing, a testament to her creativity and dedication.

“The day out at Roscommon Racecourse was a highlight for everyone involved. The staff at Agri Aware, equipp, and Roscommon Racecourse were exceptionally kind and passionate, which made the experience even more enjoyable for the students.

“This programme has not only deepened our understanding of horse racing but also ignited a passion for the sport among the students. We look forward to participating in this competition again in the future and are excited about the new opportunities it will bring.”