RoR launches ‘Step into Competition’ series to support members in transitioning from retraining to competition
Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) is proud to announce the launch of its new Step into Competition series, a major milestone in RoR’s strategy to support and inspire more ex-racehorse owners and riders to take their first steps into competitive sport.
Developed in collaboration with national governing body (NGB) qualified coaches, Step into Competition bridges the gap between RoR’s successful ‘first step’ education programme and formal competition. The initiative will provide riders with the knowledge, confidence, and experience they need to make a smooth and enjoyable transition from retraining to the competition arena.
Each discipline will feature a free-to-attend webinar, led by RoR’s National Development Officer, Ali Dane and joined by a coach or judge from the relevant NGB. The webinars will be delivered in January and February 2026. These sessions will demystify both RoR and affiliated competition pathways, offer clear guidance on competition rules and regulations, and signpost attendees to local Step into Competition clinics.
Following the webinars, participants will have the opportunity to attend regional Step into Competition clinics that can be tailored to suit experienced competitors as well as those who are new to competition. These clinics will provide coached, mock-competition experiences in a low-pressure, supportive environment, designed to replicate real competition while maintaining an educational focus. By introducing riders to qualified, NGB-aligned coaches, RoR ensures that every participant receives accurate guidance and industry-standard support.
Speaking about the launch, David Catlow, Managing Director of RoR, said: “We’re incredibly proud to introduce the Step into Competition series as part of our continued commitment to supporting the RoR community. Many owners and riders reach a point where they’re ready to take the next step but are unsure how to begin. These clinics and webinars have been designed to remove those barriers by offering a clear, structured, and confidence-building route into competition".
Combining expert-led education with hands-on practical experience, Step into Competition gives riders a clear, supportive route into their first affiliated events. The series helps riders build confidence, understand competition frameworks, and prepare effectively for progression within their sport.
A list of webinar and clinic dates with more to be added is available on the Step into Competition series webpage. This initiative represents a key milestone in RoR’s long-term vision to create a recognised, traceable, and fully supported pathway for former racehorses at every stage of their equestrian careers.
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Notes for editors
For more information, please contact Toni Levey, Marketing and Communications Executive on [email protected]
About 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