Cambridge student Scott Calder was in dreamland after a telephone call from one of the world's leading thoroughbred operations.

The call advised him that he had won one of 12 coveted places on this year's Darley Flying Start programme.

"It's awesome and I couldn't believe it when I got the phone call," said Calder.

"It's a dream come true to get access to all the best people and places and I'm determined to make a career out of the industry."

Since its inception in 2003, the Darley Flying Start has established a reputation as a leading thoroughbred management training programme. Funded by Sheikh Mohammed, it offers a unique opportunity to learn from top professionals in Ireland, England, the United States, Dubai and Australia.

"Our network of graduates and industry support continues to grow," said course manager Clodagh Kavanagh.

"In aiming to fulfil Sheikh Mohammed's vision we have been very fortunate to attract another excellent group of trainees for 2009."

Calder (22) is a graduate of the Unversity of Waikato with a Bachelor of Management Studies degree majoring in economics and strategic management. A Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship winner for his academic and sporting achievements, he has also been employed under the Waikato Implementation Team for the New Zealand Racing Board.

"That involved assisting the racing clubs with the Christmas at the Races and Summer Festival promotions," said Calder.

His practical experience was furthered broadened by a working association with Curraghmore Stud.

"It's a terrific opportunity for Scott and one that I'm absolutely certain he will make the most of," said Curraghmore Stud's Gordon Cunningham.

"The Darley scholarship will be a major stepping stone for Scott to go on and realise his ambition within the industry in the years to come."

Calder said he was grateful for the opportunity to work at Curraghmore for the last three summers.

"I always had a passionate interest in breeding and racing, but no hands-on experience," he said.

"I learned a lot there and owe a massive thanks to Gordon and his yearling manager Tracy Simmons."

As part of his practical apprenticeship he has also enjoyed an insight into the routines of a racing stable with Cambridge trainer Ralph Manning.

Calder and his fellow Darley trainees will commence their training at Kildangan Stud in Ireland next month.

"We'll be there until October and then go to Newmarket in England," he said.

"After that we go to America for the breeding season and then to the Hunter Valley for the Australian breeding season.

"At the start of 2011 we will be in Dubai and then back to Ireland and finish up in England to graduate."

Fellow New Zealander Victoria Leonard will also be among the Darley class of 2009 after graduating from Otago University with a Bachelor of Science in Zoology. She has further work experience with the New Zealand Racing Board, stints with White Robe Lodge and Brooklyn Lodge in Australia and as a track rider at Trentham.

Past trainees have graduated to employment with high-profile international trainers Jeremy Noseda (England), Todd Pletcher (United States) and Gai Waterhouse (Australia) and graduates are also holding key positions with Darley, Coolmore, Juddmonte and Kern-Lillingston Bloodstock.