Racing NSW and Equestrian Australia have formalised a five-year partnership focused on the welfare of Thoroughbreds beyond their racing careers, strengthening the pathway for horses into equestrian sport and supporting the people who take them on.
The agreement brings together the organisation responsible for Thoroughbred racing in NSW and Australia’s national governing body for equestrian sport, recognising the important role the equestrian community plays in providing retired racehorses with second careers.
At the heart of the partnership is a shared commitment to ensuring Thoroughbreds can make a successful transition from racing into life beyond the track.
The partnership will create opportunities to better connect the racing and equestrian industries, including promoting career pathways, supporting Equimillion and improving the information available to people looking to buy, sell, own and train Thoroughbreds.
Racing NSW Acting Chief Executive Officer Graeme Hinton said providing opportunities for horses after racing was a key part of the organisation’s broader approach to equine welfare.
“Our commitment to the welfare of Thoroughbreds doesn’t stop when a horse finishes its racing career. It is important that we continue to support horses as they transition into the next stage of their lives and ensure that they all find a suitable new home.
“A strong demand for retired racehorses and more people understanding how to successfully retrain and manage them are important parts of that process. By working more closely with Equestrian Australia, we can provide greater support and education to the people taking these horses on.
“That also creates an opportunity to build stronger connections between the racing and equestrian industries and promote the many career pathways that exist across the Thoroughbred industry.”
Equestrian Australia Board Chair Nick Ballard agreed. “Thoroughbreds have an important and growing place in Australian equestrian sport, and we want to see more horses successfully transition from racing into rewarding second careers.
“For that to happen, the people taking on these horses need access to the right information and support, and the horses need to be given every opportunity to adapt successfully to their new role.
“This partnership is about building that connection between racing and equestrian sport and creating better outcomes for Thoroughbreds throughout their lives.”
Racing NSW and Equestrian Australia will work together to promote Thoroughbreds across the equestrian community, including at major equestrian events through educational initiatives and the promotion of Equimillion, Racing NSW’s initiative celebrating Thoroughbreds competing in equestrian sport.
The partnership will also support greater awareness of the skills, employment and education opportunities available across the Thoroughbred industry, helping demonstrate that careers in racing extend well beyond the racetrack.
Equestrian Australia Chief Executive Officer Ben Houston said the partnership would help strengthen the connection between the racing and equestrian sectors while providing practical support for horses and their new owners
“There is a natural connection between the racing and equestrian communities, with many Thoroughbreds going on to successful careers in Eventing, Dressage, Showjumping and other equine disciplines.
“Our focus is on making that transition as well supported as possible. That means giving people the information, education and resources they need to understand Thoroughbreds and make informed decisions when buying, selling, owning and training these horses.
“It also creates an opportunity to showcase the many pathways available within the broader Thoroughbred industry, from working with horses to the education and professional opportunities that support the sport.”
A core component of the agreement will be improving the traceability of Thoroughbreds as they move from racing into equestrian homes. Racing NSW and Equestrian Australia will work together to develop a world class horse registration and traceability platform to facilitate their transition from racing to Equestrian disciplines.
A digital educational hub will also be developed to provide a central source of information for equestrian riders and owners about Thoroughbred ownership, including the characteristics and considerations involved in buying, owning, retraining and caring for a retired racehorse.
Mr Houston said better information and traceability could play an important role in supporting horses throughout their transition.
Knowing where a horse has come from and having access to relevant information about its history can help new owners make better-informed decisions and provide the right support as the horse begins its next career.
“This partnership gives us an opportunity to build a stronger connection between the two industries and put practical systems in place that benefit horses, owners and riders.”
The five-year agreement will also provide ongoing promotional and operational support for Equimillion, which will continue to operate under Equestrian Australia rules and be supported and promoted by both organisations.
