The welfare of each and every horses begins immediately when they enter The Racing League system and finishes well after their racing career is complete.
This value is paramount to The Racing League’s model as we believe our horses are more than just talented athletes. Our horses are a founding representation of the community we have built that love more than just racing but also the thoroughbred animal. In the wider racing community, Racing New South Wales and Racing Victoria have developed comprehensive programs that capture the commitment the industry has to go to ensuring the care of these animals.
Team Thoroughbred NSW (TTNSW) is the ‘heart’ of commitment to all thoroughbred horses in all stages of their life. Since inception in 2011 as the NSW Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Trust, it has continued to progress from strength to strength with three properties now located around the state called Princes Farm, Bandanora and The Grange.
In collaboration with Team Thoroughbred, Corrective Services NSW and RSL LifeCare have come onboard to assist in retraining retired racehorses. ‘Equine therapy’ showcases one of the many talents of the horse as those enrolled in the program form a bond with the thoroughbred. Funding is guaranteed for the Equine Welfare Fund as 2% of all prizemoney from races run in NSW goes directly to ensuring the care of thoroughbreds. With the NSW Tycoons horse, The Sherpa having already raced in NSW it is reassuring to know that his small prize money contribution has helped to support horses moving into the next phase of their lives.
The six pillar plan seeks to develop industry leading governance, population dynamics, racing and post-racing outcomes as well as an educative industry culture and reputation. Victoria’s Off the Track Program provides retired racehorses the chance to transition into their second career by promoting the network of Acknowledged Re-trainers across the state. For the purpose of pleasure and performance, education for the community and versatility of the thoroughbred breed, the program actively supports each horse.
Located 22kms outside of the Melbourne city centre is the charitable organisation, Living Legends. Known as ‘The International Home of Rest For Champion Horses’, Apache Cat, Brew, Chief De Beers, Might and Power and Rogan Josh are just some of the legends that reside at the Woodlands Homestead.
From this star-studded line-up of ambassadors it is clear to see the enjoyment that thoroughbreds provide to the whole community. As it is for Racing NSW and Racing Victoria, The Racing League will always endeavour to ensure that equine welfare is paramount for all horses in our system. From the time that they enter The Racing League model to well after they have finished their racing career, the care of our horses will always be the priority.
Want to see more? Head to TRL Love of the Horse