The NRCHA Trainer Internship program is designed for those who want to explore the career option of training horses, without losing their non-pro status.

 

Specifications:

  • Internship must be pre-approved by the NRCHA Board of Directors. The NRCHA Board of Directors has the right to deny NRCHA Internship status for any reason.
  • Once the internship is approved, the intern’s membership eligibility will only include the OPEN division(s) for which they are eligible.
  • During the internship, interns can show ONLY show in the OPEN division(s) for which they are eligible. The intern can show owned or non-owned horses.
  • At the end of the internship (a maximum 1-year period), the intern may apply to return to NON PRO eligibility if they have not exceeded $100,000 in Open earnings.
  • This re-application must be approved and granted by the NRCHA Board of Directors.Per the 2025 NRCHA Rule Book 2.2.1.6 Definitions (p 18) 

 

Process for Trainer Internship Application

1 Secure an internship with trainer of intern’s choice and negotiate terms.
2 Submit application at least 30 days prior to starting internship.
3 Applicants will be contacted by phone within 30 days of application.
4 If approved, intern’s membership eligibility will be changed to OPEN division(s).
Apply Here