Culture & Society · 7 Advanced · September 8, 2026

Pop Star Trades Microphone for Jockey Silks

Photo: Ollie Craig via Pexels

Vocabulary

equestrianism /ɪˈkwɛstriənɪzəm/ noun

the sport or practice of riding and racing horses

She developed a passion for equestrianism after taking riding lessons as a teenager.

conditioning /kənˈdɪʃənɪŋ/ noun

physical training to build strength and prepare for athletic performance

The athlete's rigorous conditioning program helped him prepare for the marathon.

leverage /ˈlɛvərɪdʒ/ verb

to use something you have to gain advantage or benefit

She decided to leverage her business experience to help the nonprofit organization improve its operations.

Article

JJ Hamblett, a well-known member of the British-Irish boy band Union J, is stepping away from the recording studio to participate in a charitable horse racing event. On September 11th, Hamblett will compete in a race at Doncaster Racecourse, located in northern England. This transition from entertainment to equestrianism represents an exciting challenge for the performer, who is more accustomed to performing in front of audiences than riding thoroughbred horses.

Kerr University™ subscribers

Get full access to every level and category, plus one-on-one guidance in class

This lesson continues with 3 more vocabulary words, the full article, natural-voice audio and discussion questions. Subscribers get every Daily News lesson, at every level.

See plans

New here? Book a free 30-minute class or try a free sample story.

Open the full interactive lesson with tap-to-hear on every word →

Ready to speak English with real confidence?

Work 1-on-1 with Digby R. Kerr.

Claim Your Free 30-Min Class