Racing NSW and Equestrian Australia Sign Five-Year Partnership to Enhance Thoroughbred Welfare and Traceability

Racing NSW and Equestrian Australia have formalised a five-year partnership focused on the post-racing welfare of Thoroughbreds, establishing enhanced pathways into equestrian sport and supporting owners, trainers, and riders.

The agreement bridges the state racing authority and the national governing body for equestrian sport, recognising the vital role the equestrian community plays in providing retired racehorses with successful second careers.

At the core of the collaboration is a shared commitment to improving horse traceability, establishing a world-class registration platform, and developing a digital educational hub for riders and owners.

Racing NSW acting CEO, Graeme Hinton, emphasised the commercial and welfare imperatives driving the five-year agreement.

“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,” Hinton said.

Equestrian Australia board chair, Nick Ballard, highlighted the necessity of accessible information and structured support networks.

“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,” Ballard stated.

The partnership will provide ongoing promotional and operational support for Equimillion, which will continue to operate under Equestrian Australia rules.

Furthermore, Equestrian Australia CEO, Ben Houston, pointed to the practical benefits of the collaboration.

“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,” Houston said. 

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