Recently Krissy Harris was thrilled to receive a call from Tayla Gilmore of Godolphin Lifetime Care pledging support for the TSHA.
“Godolphin is one of the most pro-active horse studs in rehoming and lifetime care,” she said. “It's ideals dovetail very neatly into those of the Thoroughbred Sport Horse Association.”
Tayla explained that since its inception rehoming has always been a part of the stud’s racing and breeding operations.
“The overarching brand of Godolphin Lifetime Care was implemented in 2016 to represent Godolphin’s goal of creating awareness, passion and care for the thoroughbred breed. Outside of the physical rehoming and care for our horses, the Lifetime Care program seeks to create awareness and grow people’s passion for this breed. We try to realise this by recognising and supporting those who work towards achieving this.”
Godolphin has pledged support for the Slipper Showjumping classes at five regional shows which are close to the areas where Godolphin has its training, pre-training, stallions and stud. What was the attraction of these start-up/entry level classes?
“Retired thoroughbred racehorses are versatile,” stated Tayla.” With retraining they can be the perfect mount for a suitable rider. We often see that the elite level of equestrian competition always has support and sponsorship, for Godolphin it’s important to recognise all horses, whether they’re working up to the elite level or simply supporting or encouraging those whose goals are to continue competing at lower levels.
“The Godolphin Lifetime Care program captures the whole-of-life cycle and signifies our commitment to each horse’s welfare by providing the highest standard of care at every stage of development during and after their racing careers.
“Following retirement from Godolphin’s racing program each horse is afforded a minimum 6-week spell before becoming available for rehoming,” continued Tayla. “We then assess their suitability and begin searching for a long-term forever home. Godolphin places a large emphasis on its education system which begins when the horses are foals, and takes pride in providing them with a solid education foundation which makes a difference later in life when they go from racing into a second career.
“Godolphin is committed to remaining in contact with the current owners of its retired racehorses and enjoys hearing of their accomplishments. Whether they’re ridden competitively or for pleasure, used as a companion or to teach someone to ride, we cannot express just how fantastic it is to see all these outcomes. Regardless of each horse’s success on the track we’re proud and excited to witness them transition into another career and look forward to celebrating their successes with their new owners.”
Where possible and when appropriate Godolphin will send representatives to its sponsored events to support the organisers and present awards.
For more information on Thoroughbred Sport Horse Association, click here.
