Trainer Continuing Education (CE) was discussed at the NHBPA’s 2013 Tampa Winter Convention, with a resulting recommendation to survey thoroughbred trainers (and owners) for their insight, comments, suggestions and opinions on the subject. There is currently an existing ARCI Model Rule requiring four (4) hours of CE which has been adopted by Indiana and Colorado, and California is expected to be voting on a CE requirement in the coming months. Voluntary CE programs have been embraced in Washington.

The Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summits’ Education and Licensing Committee (WSS) is asking the NHBPA and other horsemen’s groups who are, or will be, impacted by this CE requirement for feedback from trainers and owners regarding CE topics, cost, amount of CE and instructional media options.

For trainers, CE can provide a way to enhance skills, improve care of horses, learn emerging industry trends, and understand and appreciate laws and regulations which impact on your business. An increase in these skills may help to increase a trainer’s win percentage and ultimately improve a trainer’s profitability.

The following survey consists of 11 questions and should take you about 2-4 minutes to complete. Please take this opportunity to provide your input on the subject of Continuing Education.

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* 1. Please select what type of license you currently hold or have held? (choose all that apply)

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* 2. How many years have you been a licensed trainer?

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* 3. How many different states have you raced in?

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* 4. Do you race in any of the following states? (please select all that apply)

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* 5. Which of the following subjects would you interested in learning more about? (please select all that apply)

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* 6. How many hours of Continuing Education should be required each year?

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* 7. How much would you be willing to pay for Continuing Education programs?

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* 8. How would you prefer to receive Continuing Education? (select all that apply)

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* 9. Do you own a computer or other device, such as an I-PAD or smartphone, to access Continuing Education on the web?

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* 10. Should there be a per start minimum for the requirement of Continuing Education in a particular state? (For example, you must start 6 horses before you are required to take CE)

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* 11. FOR OWNERS ONLY, would you be willing to pay a higher day-rate if your trainer was taking Continuing Education Courses?

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