Gerard Donworth

Why did you apply for the Godolphin Flying Start scholarship back in 2023?
The next logical step for me was to try and get some more international exposure. It is a common
theme nowadays to go abroad and broaden your horizons. Flying Start offers you that and more. To
be the best, you have to be around the best.

Who has had the most influence on you since you commenced the programme?
That is a tough question to answer because you do meet so many people whilst on the course
who are willing to give up their time to help you. The Flying Start alumni have been great in each
country and I learned a lot from Scott Calder.

What did you learn from your externships?
I spent four weeks with Brittany Russell at Fair Hill Training Centre. Brittany and her Assistant Emma were excellent,
and I learned a lot about US racing. My second externship was at Cambridge Stud in New Zealand. I was exposed to
different farm management practices and promotion of their stallions.

What did you miss about home when you travelled around the world for two years?
I definitely missed the hurling. Both playing it with my club and watching Limerick play. Funny enough, I did make it back
for the semi-final against Cork. The result did not go our way unfortunately. My sister is after having a baby, so better
mention that also.

What is the next step for you?
My interest lies in the breeding and sales side of the industry. I would like to get some more hands on experience before
embarking on my own.