news British racecourses unite to increase funding for the aftercare of former racehorses through Retraining of Racehorses

In a significant step for the welfare of retired racehorses, all 59 British racecourses have collectively agreed to a substantial increase in their contributions to aftercare through Retraining of Racehorses (RoR). The new funding model, effective from 1 January 2025, will see each racecourse contribute £270 per fixture, up from £100 per fixture – an increase of 170%. This marks a historic commitment from British racecourses to the wellbeing of horses after their racing careers.

The funding boost will directly contribute to RoR's efforts as the lead organisation in aftercare for the British racing industry. With the support of these increased contributions, RoR is poised to meet the ambitious goals outlined in the RoR Strategy 2024-2026, ensuring the continued success and welfare of former racehorses as they transition to new careers.

David Catlow, Managing Director of RoR, said: “The increased contributions from British racecourses to RoR is a monumental step forward for the aftercare of former racehorses. This increase reflects the racing industry's growing recognition of the responsibility it holds to its horses, not just during their careers, but for the rest of their lives.

"RoR is actively engaging with other major stakeholders to explore how they can also increase their contributions to aftercare. Discussions are ongoing with key partners to secure additional support. It is only through full industry-wide support that the goals outlined in RoR’s strategy can be fully realised, benefitting all former racehorses.

“While the decision to increase contributions was the result of individual decisions by each racecourse, RoR is grateful to the Racecourse Association (RCA) for its facilitation in helping secure this important boost to the welfare of retired racehorses."

David Armstrong, RCA CEO, speaking on behalf of all racecourses, added: “We are pleased to see all 59 British racecourses come together to support the future of former racehorses. The aftercare of these horses is a shared responsibility within the industry, and the increased funding is a clear signal of our commitment to ensuring that every racehorse is well cared for after their racing careers. The collaboration between racecourses and RoR is vital in maintaining the integrity of the sport and ensuring a successful transition for horses once they retire from racing.”

Notes to Editors

For more information, please contact Vicky Vine, Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications, at RoR, vvine@ror.org.uk or telephone 07467 182825.

Retraining of Racehorses

Established in 2000, Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all former racehorses through various preventative measures, including:

• Setting industry standards for retraining former racehorses.
• Providing training and education to owners to build lifelong partnerships with their retired racehorses.
• Promoting the versatility of these horses in various equestrian activities and facilitating their participation in competitions.
• Maintaining a robust tracking system for former racehorses through RoR membership.

RoR also extends support to former racehorses in times of need through its welfare work.

Find out more about our work, please visit www.ror.org.uk

About the Racecourse Association

The Racecourse Association (RCA), formed in 1907, is the representative body for 58 of Britain’s 59 racecourses. 58 racecourses are members and have equal voting rights. All 59 racecourses are supporting RoR via the mechanism reported in this release. The RCA serves the interests of its 58 British racecourse members both inside and outside the sport, empowering them to be the best venues that they can be.

The RCA works on behalf of racecourses to represent their views within the sport. Outside of horseracing, the RCA works alongside the Government, other sports and leisure venues, and national charities to meet the needs of racecourses.

Additionally, the RCA encourages and facilitates racecourse community engagement, involvement in horse welfare initiatives, responsible drinking campaigns, and various other partnerships within the sport. The Showcase & Awards, the marquee event of British Racecourses to celebrate and reward excellence and innovation, is hosted by the RCA annually in November.

Since 1998, the RCA has owned RaceTech, the dedicated technical facilities provider that has maintained British Racing at the forefront of global broadcast technology.

For more information, please contact Paul Swain 07791 414027 or 01344 873536.

www.racecourseassociation.co.uk