An Isle of Wight-born equestrian has made history by becoming the first UK citizen to be selected for the highly regarded Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (ITBA) Internship.
Lauren Day, 21, grew up on the Island and says it was here that her passion for horses first began.
Despite coming from what she describes as a ‘non-horsey’ background, Lauren’s dedication to the sport started early, riding from the age of 2 and pursuing a career in the equestrian world. However, her uncle was a jockey.
Only 4 candidates worldwide were chosen for the competitive ITBA programme, which provides hands-on experience across leading studs, sales companies, and training operations in Ireland. The internship is recognised internationally as a significant stepping stone within the thoroughbred industry.
Lauren explained that her journey has been years in the making. At 16, she left the Isle of Wight with her dressage horse to attend Hartpury College, before progressing to the Royal Agricultural University to study BSc (Hons) Bloodstock and Equine Performance. During her third year, a university-led trip to Ireland introduced her to the Irish bloodstock sector and the ITBA Internship.
Lauren has told Island Echo:
“I’m incredibly honoured to have been selected for the ITBA Internship, particularly as the first person from the UK to achieve this.
Article continues below this advertisement “The Isle of Wight played a huge role in shaping my love for horses, and I’m proud to represent where I come from as I take this next step in my career.”
The internship will see Lauren work with some of the biggest names in the thoroughbred industry, focusing on bloodstock and marketing, while she continues to balance her ongoing love for dressage.
She credits the unwavering support of her parents, Lisa and Mark Day, along with guidance from her university mentors, for helping her reach this milestone.
