Racing NSW and Equestrian Australia plan retired-horse traceability platform

Racing NSW and Equestrian Australia have formalised a five-year partnership to develop a system for registering and tracking Thoroughbreds as they move from racing into equestrian sport.

The planned platform is intended to improve traceability as Thoroughbreds move from racing into equestrian homes. A separate digital hub will provide information on buying, selling, ownership, retraining and care of retired racehorses, with equestrian riders and owners as its intended audience.

“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,” Racing NSW acting chief executive Graeme Hinton said.

Racing Australia’s retired-horse rules already require the person responsible to report a sale or transfer, change of location, retirement from a career or death within seven days. Racing NSW also runs a retraining and rehoming program through Team Thoroughbred NSW.

“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,” Equestrian Australia chief executive Ben Houston said.