News Archive

The RoR/Tattersalls Show Series and Retrained Racehorse Challenge are both well underway, with a high standard being set by ex-racehorses across the country. 

Recent winners include Blue Java ridden by Sonya Fitch-Peyton, seen here at the Royal Windsor Horse Show landing the RoR/Tattersalls Show Series class.  This series is part of the RoR/SEIB Elite Performance Awards in 2010.

The winner of the championship held at Hickstead in June will receive a prize of £2,500 at the British Breeding Breeders Dinner and Awards Ceremony in January 2011.

The RoR/SEIB Retrained Racehorse Challenge also had a class at The Royal Windsor Horse Show, and was won by Moratti ridden by Mrs Camilla Hankinson.  Moratti now qualifies for the final which will take place at The Royal Windsor Horse Show in May 2011.

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Please note that due to circumstances beyond their control, The Sport Horse Breeding in the North West Summer Show has been relocated to:

New Lane, Eccleston, Lancashire  PR7 6NA.

The date remains the same, Saturday 19th June.  They apologise for any inconvenience and any problems should be directed to the Show Secretary Mrs Kath Smith 01772 600763.

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The RoR/Tattersalls Show Series is well underway, with a high standard being set by ex-racehorses across the country. 

Qualifiers for the 2010 final at Hickstead are reminded that you will need to enter by the end of May with:

The British Jumping Derby Meeting, All England Jumping Course, Hickstead, West Sussex RH17 5NU, T: 01273 834315, E: office@hickstead.co.uk, W: www.hickstead.co.uk 

If anyone requires overnight stabling then the RoR can make arrangements with Plumpton Racecourse @ £25 per night with paper bedding.  Please contact Di Arbuthnot, E: darbuthnot@ror.org.uk, T: 01488 648998.

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An RoR 'Racehorse to Riding Horse Master Class' workshop for you and your ex-racehorse will be held on Sunday 13th June with top show rider Lynn Russell, at Durfold Farm, Plaistow Road, Dunsfold, Surrey GU8 4PQ.  

This clinic is designed to help you with any queries or problems you have had during the first half of the season.  If you are off to the Derby Meeting at Hickstead then there will be heaps of tips to help you get the best results. 

Lynn will help you with your turn out and tack, plaiting to make the best of your horse’s top-line, covering up blemishes, trimming and tail pulling.  As well as provide advice on the roll of your grooms and what they need to wear.

In addition, the Hickstead lay out, how the class is run, ring craft and way of going will be explained.  Not to mention how to stand and present your horse to the conformation judge, leading in hand at walk and trot.  Each horse may also be ridden by a “mock” judge. 

Finally, the workshop will deal with any matters arising from the day and go through the ROR rules if needed.  Advice on worming and feeding to get the best from your former racehorse will also be given.

For more details and costs contact:  Lynn Russell, T: 07855 106096, E: lynn@topcobs.com, www.topcobs.com

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The final for the RoR/SEIB Retrained Racehorse Challenge will take place at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in May 2011. 

We are delighted that the final of this important class within our Show Series will take place at such a prestigious show. The first qualifying show kicks off on 22nd April at the Spring Show, Bedfordshire, visit the Retrained Racehorse Challenge section for dates of other qualifying shows and details of the class.

In the RoR/SEIB Retrained Racehorse Challenge, the thoroughbreds are asked to jump a small course of fences. This is followed by an individual freestyle show, and then the conformation of the horse is judged. Horses are NOT ridden by the judge.

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Ex-racehorses will have the opportunity to compete against one another in a special retrained racehorse British Eventing (BE) section at Ascott-under-Wychwood, Oxon, held on 5th & 6th June and also 17th & 18th July.

Although retrained racehorse BE classes run at higher grades, this is the first event of its kind at this introductory level - BE90 Open. The class, which is being sponsored by Retraining of Racehorses (RoR), aims to help bridge the gap – providing an entry level for those with ex-racehorses who want to give affiliated eventing a go.

The BE event aims to attract some 40 horse and rider combinations. To be eligible horses must have raced under rules in the UK and also be registered with RoR. Registration is via this website.  

Riders and horses do not need to be full season members of BE, but can compete on day tickets, visit, www.britisheventing.com for more information. For more information on the event itself contact the organizers on 01993 832083 or email chrisandjanet@fireflyuk.net or see the website www.crownfarm.co.uk 

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RoR is organising a trip to Doncaster Bloodstock Sales (DBS) on Wednesday 7th April, to see how to view, vet and buy a horse at the Bloodstock Sales. The trip will also include help with the ‘First Time Buyers Guide’ prepared by the Sales Company and a catalogue.  Coffee on arrival and a light lunch will also be provided.

The day will start at 10.30 a.m. at the Doncaster Sales Paddocks, Sandall Beat Road, Leger Way, Doncaster DN2 6JP. Please make your way to the Willie Stephenson Restaurant on arrival for coffee and the plan for the day which will include going through the buyers guide, vetting procedure, a visit to the office for any enquiries and the purchase of a horse, as well as looking at a number of horses. 

To book a place at £20 per head, email Di Arbuthnot at RoR darbuthnot@ror.org.uk . For more information on Doncaster Bloodstock Sales visit www.dbsauctions.com

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RoR will be holding a one day clinic on 'Re-educating the ex-racehorse - where to start and how to proceed' on Saturday 17th April 2010 in Devon.

Supported by Baileys Horse Feeds, it will be held at the Grange Equestrian Centre, Northlew Road, Okehampton, Devon EX20 3DA.

This clinic is aimed at those owners who have just got their ex-racehorse or are thinking about getting an ex-racehorse. There will be demos by an accredited trainer, lectures on feeding and farriery, and veterinary advice on common ailments and injuries associated with ex-racehorses.

Tickets are £25 including coffee on arrival and lunch. For more information and to book your place contact Claire Collier at Baileys Horse Feeds, T: 01371 853676, E: clairecollier@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

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An impressive line-up of ex-racehorses are set to parade at the Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday 16th March, before the first race in the Parade Ring.

A number of previous Cheltenham favourites will be showing-off their new talents, including Gold Cup winner, Master Oats, who now enjoys hunting and hacking.

Others Cheltenham heroes due to line-up include Champion Hurdle winner Brave Inca, and Moscow Flyer winner of the Arkle Challenge Trophy and Queen Mother Champion Chase, both of whom are also doing well in the show ring. Another Champion Hurdle winner, Make A Stand, will also return to Cheltenham for the day taking a break from his new life hunting and showjumping.

Make A Stand was also on parade recently at Sandown on 13th March, as was Brave Inca and Moscow Flyer. In addition to the well known Celibate who has been enjoying a second career as an eventer. 

The horses due to parade are listed below, although they are subject to change.

Cheltenham Festival Parade – 16th March
BRAVE INCA – Champion Hurdle winner now showing 
BLOWING WIND – Cheltenham Festival winner now hunting and showjumping
EARTH MOVER – Christie’s Foxhunter winner now team chasing
HUSSARD COLLONGES – Royal & Sun Alliance Chase winner now showing
MAKE A STAND – Champion Hurdle winner now hunting and showjumping 
MASTER OATS - Cheltenham Gold Cup winner now hunting and hacking
MOSCOW FLYER – Arkle Challenge Trophy and Queen Mother Champion Chase winner now showing
ROYAL PREDICA – Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup winner now showing
STORMY FAIRWEATHER – Cathcart Challenge Cup winner now hunting

(Photograph:  Make A Stand on parade at Sandown)

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We were delighted with the response to the RoR New Year photo competition for the best photos of ex-racehorses.  A huge variety of different photographs were sent in, from ex-racehorses enjoying the snow to quieter moments with their owners.

The five winning entries who will each receive a RoR jacket are:

1st - Gray Knight submitted by Laura Grey

2nd - Other Will submitted by Helen Williams (picture shown)

3rd - Blaise Wood submitted by Byrony Close

4th - Night Dance submitted by Ernesta Verburg

5th - Gobavina submitted by Louise Robinson

To see the winning photographs visit the Gallery/Other . 

We also received many wonderful success stories, and have therefore decided to award RoR jackets to the top five success stories as well.  Watch this space for an annoucement on the winners very soon.   

More of the photographs and success stories that were sent in will be added to the website over the forthcoming months.

Thank you so much to those who sent in photographs, we have really enjoyed looking at them and hearing about your success stories.  Please do keep sending them in. 

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RoR is presenting two prizes of £250 each to the top ex-racehorses at the Mitsubishi Motors Grassroots Championships at Badminton on 29th and 30th April 2010.

If you have qualified for this Championships and have not registered your ex-racehorse with RoR please do so as soon as possible to qualify for the prizes.

The vibrant Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Grassroots Championships brings together winners from BE90 and BE100 regional qualifiers from around the country to contest the overall Championship. For more details of the Championships visit www.badminton-horse.co.uk/grassroots.aspx

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RoR is holding a Showing Clinic on 20th March with Jan Darwin, one of the country's top show riders, at the Northallerton Equestrian Centre in North Yorkshire.

The clinic will focus on how to produce and prepare your ex-racehorse for the forthcoming show season. You may come and watch, or a few 'guinea pigs' will also be required if you would like to bring your ex-racehorse.

In addition, there will be advice given on feeding, and the correct use of products such as saddlery and bits. For more information on the Showing Clinic with Jan Darwin contact Di Arbuthnot, RoR Director of Operations, T: 01488 648998, E: darbuthnot@ror.org.uk

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RoR and South Essex Insurance Brokers (SEIB) have joined forces to create an exciting new series of competitions to encourage and recognize the success of ex-racehorses, with a valuable prize fund of £30,000.

The new series will provide a focus for ex-racers competing in the disciplines of Eventing, Dressage, Show Jumping, Endurance and Showing and encourage more riders to recognize the talents and versatility of the thoroughbred and their potential for success in another sphere.

To be eligible, horses must have run in the UK and be registered with RoR. There is a significant monetary prize for each discipline that will be presented to the winners and runners-up at the British Breeding Breeders Dinner and Awards Ceremony in January 2011.

The prize will be awarded to the horse that has accumulated the most points in its respective discipline during the 2010 season in accordance with the rules for that discipline. The winning dressage horse will have amassed the most British Dressage points between 1 September 2009 and 31 August 2010 and in eventing points will be accumulated by British Eventing from their tables from pre-novice to advanced and will be awarded from 1st to 6th place during the 2010 season.

Each winner will collect a valuable prize of £5,000, with £2,500 going to the runner up.

In show jumping, the Champion Award of £5,000 will go to the highest placed horse in the BSJA horse ranking list as at the 1st October 2010. The Recognition Award of £2,500, for horses registered with BSJA between 1st October 2009 and 30th September 2010, will go to the horse with the highest notional prize money earned during this period.

In the Endurance section, points will be awarded on the same basis as the standard Endurance GB Trophy points and the horse with the highest points will win £5,000 with £2,500 going to the runner up.

The showing award will be presented to the winner of the Tattersalls/ROR Thoroughbred show series championship at Hickstead 2010 and the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse Show Horse Championship at Horse of The Year Show 2010, with the winners each collecting £2,500.

“The thoroughbred is a unique and versatile horse and we have seen many times how they can excel in a new career and this series gives owners and riders a new focus”, says Di Arbuthnot, Director of RoR.

South Essex Insurance Brokers, a leading equestrian insurer, have supported the retraining of racehorses for many years.  “The Elite Performance Awards will provide a unique opportunity for all those riders who take on an ex-racehorse and, with time and patience, show how they can be retained for success in a new discipline. It will be wonderful to see more ex-racehorses competing across the disciplines and the awards will recognize their success in a very positive way”, says Nicolina MacKenzie, Marketing Manager of South Essex Insurance Brokers. 

For more details look at the overview on the RoR Series page for your relevant discipline on this website.

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In 2010, RoR are introducing workshops where you can bring your ex-racehorse for coaching from top BE accredited coaches.

Individual or small group hour sessions will be available to book through RoR at a cost of only £25 at any of the centres listed below.  You can be a beginner with your ex-racehorse, or more experienced, the workshops are designed to cater for all levels.

To apply, horses must have raced or been in training and be registered with RoR. If the workshops are well supported RoR will consider putting on more workshops in other areas to give opportunities to all owners with ex-racehorses.

Click here to download the application form to complete and send with your payment of £25 to RoR, Ash Cottage, Back Street, East Garston, Hungerford, Berkshire RG17 7EX.

APRIL
23rd April - WARESLEY PARK STUD, Cambridge - with Nick Turner 
This first workshop was very well attended and received.  As a result a two-day workshop is planned for August 2010.
27th April - GRANGE EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, Devon - with Nick Turner

MAY
4th May - WEST WILTSHIRE EC, Wiltshire - with Nick Turner
7th May - OSBALDESTON, Lancashire - with Jeanette Brakewell
10th May - UNICORN CENTRE, Gloucestershire - with Nick Turner
11th May - VALE VIEW, Leicestershire - with Nick Turner
12th May - THE SEAGOLD CENTURION, Bishop Auckland - with Karen Dixon
17th May - GOLDEN CROSS EC, East Sussex - with Nick Turner
19th May - NORTHERN RACING COLLEGE, Doncaster - with Karen Dixon

JUNE
15th June - KINGSBARN EC, Falkirk, Scotland - with Ian Stark

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RoR is organising a trip to Doncaster Bloodstock Sales on 7th April 2010 to see how to view, vet and buy a horse at the bloodstock sales.  The trip will also include help with the catalogue and the 'First Time Buyers Guide' prepared by the sales company. 

There will only be limited places available on this trip, but there will be more arranged at other bloodstock sales later in the year. 

Coffee on arrival and a light lunch will be provided.  To book a place at £20 per head, email Laura at RoR lquainton@ror.org.uk  .  For more information on Doncaster Bloodstock Sales visit www.dbsauctions.com

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Kristina Cook, European Eventing Champion and daughter of racehorse trainer Josh Gifford is hosting her first ever Masterclass on Wednesday 17th February at Merrist Wood College, Guildford, Surrey GU3 3PE.

One topic Kristina will be concentrating on is the retraining of ex-racehorses.  You will also be able to meet European Champion Miners Frolic, and watch Kristina with some of her stable stars.

Doors open at 6.45pm for 7.30pm start.  Tickets for adults are £25 and under 16yrs is £20.  

Buy your tickets online at www.kristinacookeventing.co.uk or contact Melissa on 07894 290563.  

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The 'Ask the Experts' team has been asked to consider the production of a dedicated website for the buying, selling and loaning of ex-racehorses.

Such a site would be the one-stop site for anyone wishing to source, sell or re-home an ex-racehorse.

Do you think this is a good idea? Would you use the site?

Please may we have your thoughts and comments on this proposal by email to asktheexperts@ror.org.uk no later than 28th February 2010. 

We look forward to hearing from you.

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The evening with Jeanette Brakewell, former Olympic event medallist, held at the Osbaldeston Centre in Lancashire on 29th January went extremely well despite freezing conditions.

About 150 ex-racehorse enthusiasts and owners watched ten former racehorses being retrained by Jeanette.  These included previous Cheltenham winner Hussard Collonges, and another ex-racehorse who had been 'rescued' from Beaston Sale.

There was such good feedback and attendance that the RoR is considering holding more of these evenings.  Keep an eye on the website for more details. 

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Showing expert Lynn Russell is holding a one day 'Racehorse to Riding Horse Clinic' on 20th February 2010 to which you can bring your horse. It will be organised by Lynn and held at Durfold Farm, Dunsfold, Surrey GU8 4PQ, T: 07855 106096, E: lynn@topcobs.com , W: www.topcobs.com

RoR is also holding a Showing Clinic on 20th March with Jan Darwin, one of the country's top show riders, at the Northallerton Equestrian Centre in North Yorkshire. The clinic will focus on how to produce and prepare your ex-racehorse for the forthcoming show season. You may come and watch, or a few 'guinea pigs' will also be required if you would like to bring your ex-racehorse.

In addition, there will be advice given on feeding, and the correct use of products such as saddlery and bits. For more information on the Showing Clinic with Jan Darwin contact Di Arbuthnot, RoR Director of Operations, T: 01488 648998, E: darbuthnot@ror.org.uk

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Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) was very pleased to be awarded the 'Fighting the Credit Crunch' News Award by Horse and Hound recently.

The Award was given to the institutue/individual who has done their best to beat the budget blues.  RoR was given the award for their new measures to increase prize money and tighten entry requirements to increase funding and opportunities for retraining ex-racehorses.

In 2009, RoR set up a points series in eventing, polo and dressage offering various cash prizes of up to £5,000 as an incentive to encourage horse-owners to consider rehoming ex-racehorses.  New restrictions were also applied to classes - particularly showing - to create a more even competitive field. Record entries for all the RoR Series were received throughout the year.   

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'The retraining process from racing to polo' clinic with David Morley will be held on Tuesday 23rd March at the Rugby Polo Club in Warwickshire.

HPA accredited coach David Morley will work and ride former racehorses from the starting point when a horse comes out of training to playing chukkas. This will be followed by veterinary and horse nutrition advice. 

The workshop also offers the opportunity for you to bring your ex-racehorses in the afternoon session for coaching and problem solving.

The cost is £25. For more details and to book a place contact Laura Quainton, T: 01488 648998, E: lquainton@ror.org.uk

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Do you have any funny, cute or amazing photographs of your ex-racehorse?

RoR is holding a competition this New Year for the best photos of ex-racehorses. They may be photographs of your horse competing, hacking, or simply cheeky snaps of him/her around the yard or in the field.

This one for example is of Differential looking very muddy and enjoying his new life as a hippo! On his smarter days he has qualified for the RoR Show Series final with his rider Vicky Smart.

Thank you so much to those who have already sent in photographs, we have enjoyed looking at them and look forward to receiving many more.  If you also have a great story to tell even better, we love hearing about your success stories, as do so many of you judging by the popularity of our Success Stories page on our website.

So email us at success@ror.org.uk by 31st January 2010 with your photographs, and be in with a chance to win a RoR jacket. The top 5 entries will all win a jacket.

(1st February 2010:  Please note the competition has now closed, but thank you to all those who took the time to send in your great photographs and tell us about your success stories.  We will announce the winners soon.  Remember to continue sending in stories throughout the year as we are always keen to know how ex-racehorses are getting on in their second careers.)

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The email and telephone Helplines remain available over the Christmas and New Year period if you need help and advice. If you choose to telephone, please leave a message on the answer phone and remember to clearly provide a contact telephone number.

Helpline Telephone No:  01780 740773

Email:  asktheexperts@ror.org.uk

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Send in your photos and win a RoR jacket

Do you have any funny, cute or amazing photographs of your ex-racehorse?

RoR is holding a competition this Christmas and New Year for the best photos of ex-racehorses. They may be photographs of your horse competing, hacking, or simply cheeky snaps of him/her around the yard or in the field.

Being Christmas and the season to be jolly, we’ve cheated here with photoshop, but we are sure you have lots of real photographs ready to share.

If you also have a lovely story to tell even better, we love hearing about your success stories, as do so many of you judging by the popularity of our Success Stories page on our website.

So email us at success@ror.org.uk by 31st January 2010 with your photographs, and be in with a chance to win a RoR jacket. The top 5 entries will all win a jacket.

We look forward to hearing from you. In the meantime have a great Christmas and New Year, with plenty of Happy Hacking!

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The final results have been announced for the inaugural RoR Elite SEIB Dressage Performance Award.  Organised with British Dressage (BD), the Award is a points championship open to any level, from grass roots to the higher levels. 

The considerable first prize of £1,500 and a commemorative trophy will be presented to Bold Hunter and Anne Bostock at the British Breeding Awards in London on 9th January 2010. 

The full results of the RoR Elite SEIB Dressage Performance Award 2009 are:

1.  BOLD HUNTER - Anne Bostock
2.  ROCKCRACKER and Sam Perks
3.  MISTER BOJANGLES and Dee Lousada
4.  PRAIRIE GROVE and Jane Wymark
5.  HENRY HARBER and Julie Riley
6.  ALQABAS and Anita Street
7.  FIRE MOON and Leah Craven 
    THEME PARK and David Trott
8.  LIGHT THE FUSE and Dee Lousada
9.  GOLDEN DYNASTY and Clare Carter
10. BRUZELLA and Jo Hawkins 


Bold Hunter is owned by Anne and Ian Bostock. They bought him as a ten-year-old, when he came out of racing and Ian point to pointed him for three years. When he was 14, Ann had a go at dressage and has been placed at every outing. She plans to compete at elementary in 2010. 

Second place went to Sam Perks’ Rockcracker, who was in training with George Margesson in Newmarket and had numerous second and third places. He left racing aged nine and was trained up to advanced medium dressage. Sam took Rockcracker on three years ago and they are members of the South West BYRDS team, competing successfully at elementary level.

Third place went to Dee and Tony Lousada’s 18 year old gelding, Mister Bojangles, who they bought as a four-year-old. He was raced over fences until he was 11. When he was retired, Dee continued to hack him out, but handed him over to a professional dressage rider and last year he was competed by Paul Hayler at advanced medium level and was working to Prix St Georges level.

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Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) is holding a two-day training clinic at Rugby Polo Club, Warwickshire, on 4th and 5th January.

Bring your pony(ies) or come and watch HPA accredited coach David Morley on how to retrain an ex racehorse for polo from the first retraining stages through to playing chukkas and dealing with any problems during the retraining. There will also be a vet and feed expert on both days to give advice.

The cost of the clinic is £25 per day to bring a pony or £10 to be a spectator.

To book a place please contact Di Arbuthnot, T: 01488 648998, E: darbuthnot@ror.org.uk

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Monkey Boy ridden by Mrs Sue Henry won the 2009 RoR and Endurance GB Championship for the second year running, and was presented with the RoR Trophy at Endurance GB’s Annual Dinner and Prize Giving on 28th November.

A clear winner, Monkey Boy is now 18 years old, having originally been in training with Jack Berry where he raced several times and was placed as a two-year-old.

The full results are:

1st MONKEY BOY – Mrs Sue Henry

2nd SANAPTA – Mrs Fiona Griffiths

3rd MORE CONFUSION – Mrs Heather Whiteley

4th LIVIA – Miss Lisa Giovine

5th AFRICAN STAR – Mr Maurice Whiteley

6th NOSY BE – Mrs Pam Pemberton

7TH APRIL’S COMAIT – Miss Valerie Commock

8th VOYAGER – Mrs Pauline Beach

9TH SWAN WALK – Miss Jane Holdsworth

10th RIBBLE ASSEMBLY – Miss Anna Bowen

(photo provided by Eric Jones and Jan Clark)

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Following the success of the RoR/Baileys one day clinic on 'Re-educating the ex-racehorse' held on 21st November at the Unicorn Trust Equestrian Centre, places are booking up for the clinics planned for early next year. 

On 4th and 5th January there is a Polo Clinic at the Rugby Polo Club in Warwickshire.  It is a two-day course for polo players to bring their RoR ponies to help retrain them and prepare them for the coming season. The course will also include a visit from a vet, farrier and nutritionist.

Later in the month on the 29th January there will be an evening clinic (7.30pm to 9.45pm) with Jeanette Brakewell, former Olympic event medallist demonstrating retraining ex-racehorses.  This will be held at the Osbaldeston Riding Centre in Lancashire.  Entrance is free but please book a place so we have an idea of numbers attending.

To book places please contact Di Arbuthnot, T: 01488 648998, E: darbuthnot@ror.org.uk .  For information on more clinics planned in 2010 visit our welfare & development section.

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The RoR is planning a comprehensive education programme throughout 2010.  These will include more ‘starter’ clinics, and residential workshops where owners can bring their horses.  As well as clinics for specific equine disciplines, from showing to polo or simply hacking.  Keep an eye out on this website for more details.

The next RoR one day clinic on 'Re-educating the ex-racehorse - where to start and how to proceed' is on Saturday 21st November, supported by Baileys Horse Feeds.

There are still places left on this clinic for owners who have just got their ex-racehorse or are thinking about getting an ex-racehorse. There will be demos by BE accredited coach and BD accredited trainer Nick Turner. In addition there will be lectures from a Baileys nutritionist expert on feeding, a farrier will talk about typical shoeing and hoof problems, and veterinary advice will be given on common ailments associated with ex-racehorses.

The clinic will be held at The Unicorn Trust Equestrian Centre, Netherswell, Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire GL54 1JZ. Tickets are £25 including coffee on arrival and lunch. To book please contact Claire Collier at Baileys Horse Feeds, T: 01371 853676, E: clairecollier@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk 

Further clinics planned so far for 2010 include:

4th and 5th January, Rugby Polo Club, Warwickshire - Polo
A two-day course for polo players to bring their RoR ponies to help retrain them and prepare them for the coming season.  The course will also include a visit from a vet, farrier and nutritionist.

29th January, Osbaldeston, Lancashire - General
An evening with Jeanette Brakewell, former Olympic event medallist demonstrating retraining ex-racehorses (7.30pm - 9.45pm)

20th February, Sussex - Showing 
A day with Lyn Russell, one of the country's top show riders, on how to retrain and prepare your ex-racehorse for the show ring.

20th March, Northallerton, N. Yorkshire - Showing
A day with Jan Darwin, one of the country's top show riders, on how to produce and prepare your ex-racer for the coming show season.

Further clinics around the country including one in the West Country in the spring are currently being planned.  For more details keep visiting the website particularly the Welfare & Development page, or contact Di Arbuthnot, E:  darbuthnot@ror.org.uk

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The new RoR Eventing accumulator series in association with British Eventing (BE) and South Essex Insurance Brokers (SEIB) was very well received. Congratulations to all those taking part.

The final results for 2009 were:

1. KILPATRICK RIVER - Elizabeth Power (336 points)

2. POILU - Bridget Hall (315 points)

3. SEPTEMBER BLISS - Elizabeth Power (140 points)

4. ELKRA BOY - Shelly Dixon (116 points)

5. ALLIGATOR ALLEY - Matthew Heath (110 points)

6. ROOKIE - Danielle Jackson (77 points) 

The winning prize of £5,000 will be awarded at the British Breeding Awards in London in January 2010 to Kilpatrick River ridden by Elizabeth Power (pictured). Two runners-up prizes of £3,000 and £2,000 will also be awarded to Poilu and September Bliss respectively.

The 11-year-old, Kilpatrick River, is owned and ridden by Elizabeth Power. He ran 22 times and came out of racing as a five-year-old. Elizabeth rode Kilpatrick River to 11th place at the 2009 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials. She also took third place in these awards with her nine-year-old, September Bliss, who had six starts under National Hunt rules. Elizabeth, lives in Ireland but spends the competition season based in Malborough, UK. She hopes to compete at Badminton and the World Championships in Kentucky this year.

Poilu, Simon and Bridget Hall’s eleven-year-old gelding took second place in the performance awards. He had seven starts during his racing career and retired in 2004. He was originally bought for Simon but after realising his potential, he was sent to Clayton Fredericks and took 5th place at The 2009 Landrover Burghley Horse Trials.

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Ironman Muldoon won the exciting final of the 2009 RoR/SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse Show Championship at the prestigious Horse of the Year Show on Thursday 8th October.  

Owned by Mrs Amanda Bowlby and ridden by Jayne Webber, this 12 year old gelding qualified for the final when winning at Burghley Horse Trials in September. 

Ironman Muldoon was originally trained by Mark Pitman during his racing career where he won a hurdle race first time out.  He is a full brother to 1995 Grand National winner Royal Athlete, who also made a successful transition to the showing ring on retiring from racing. 

The runner-up prize went to last year's winner Another Man, owned by Sara Hartland and ridden by Claire Oliver.  He is another ex-racehorse related to a talented racehorse as his half brother is Champion chaser One Man.     

Many congratulations to all the connections.  Twelve horses came before the judges, conformation judge David Ringer and ride judge Sarah Leatherbarrow, and the standard was extremely high.  "This was a good class and we were delighted with the way they were produced.  All the horses were in super condition and a credit to the people who brought them," said David.

All the horses responded well under rider judge, Sarah Leatherbarrow, who was delighted with they went.  "These horses are a credit to the thoroughbred breed and showed how well they can cope with the different environment and a different job.  They were great ambassadors," she said.  

Full results:

1st IRONMAN MULDOON - owned by Mrs Amanda Bowlby, ridden by Jayne Webber 
2nd ANOTHER MAN owned by Sara Hartland, ridden by Claire Oliver
3rd FAST MIX owned by Caroline Cowlard, ridden by Wendy Gibson
4th BLACKCURRANT owned by Mrs Di Haine, ridden by Chantal Wootten
5th DIVINE DANCER owned and ridden by Hannah Horton 
6th MISS CAPRICORN owned by Diane Stennett, ridden by Katie Jerram
7th MICKEY CROKE owned by Charlotte Sailsbury, ridden by Lian Watson 
8th AMEZOLA owned and ridden by Dawn Bacchus
9th WHISTLE UP THE WIND owned by Catherine Altham, ridden by Heather Rothwell
10th GUAR DU LUC owned by Lisa Farqhuar, ridden by Juliette O’Brian 
Other Finalists:
ROGERS REVENGE owned by Mrs Vicky Smart, ridden by Simon Charlesworth
TONY TIE owned by Frank Berry, ridden by Charles Le Moignan

(photograph by Real Time Imaging)

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Emma Ayling and her ex-racehorse Lady Charlemagne won the Baileys sponsored dressage league at Hickstead this year, which is also supported by RoR.

Hickstead holds unaffilated dressage from April till September, for which competitors have a score card which is signed by the organiser after every event. Each competitor scores points according to what percentage is attained: under 56% 1 point, 56% 2 Points, 58% 4 points,60% 6 points etc. Then at the end of the league the points are added up.

Here’s Emma’s success story:

“I have always liked thoroughbreds and enjoyed schooling horses so the fact I can put both of those things together and also give the 'ex-racehorse' another purpose in life gives me alot of pleasure.

Lady Charlemagne (known as Charley at home) is my four-year-old mare that won the dressage league at Hickstead. I purchased her from Ascot race sales only at the end of February 2009. She had flat raced up to sale and was just too slow.

I firstly did lots of local dressage with her, scoring between 58% and 62% and improving up to a few 69%'s !!. More recently I’ve taught her to jump at which she has showed huge potential with her attitude and brain. We went cross country schooling for the first time in September and she jumped ditches, logs, barrels, steps up and down, water, first time and without even a lead. She is now having a well deserved holiday. I will bring her back next season with the plan to complete a couple of BE intros and maybe finishing the season on pre novice. I will wait and see and will be very careful not to rush her."

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RoR will be holding a one day 'Racehorse to Riding Horse Workshop' on 20th February 2010 with showing expert Lynn Russell. It will be organised by Lynn and held at Durfold Farm, Dunsfold, Surrey GU8 4PQ. 

There is also another Workshop planned for 20th March with Lynn Russell at the Northallerton Equestrian Centre in North Yorkshire.

The workshops are for riders with their ex-racehorses. Each horse will be assessed and the rider helped to establish a way forward, including ground work and in-hand preparation. In addition, there will be advice given on feeding, and the correct use of products such as saddlery and bits.

For more information contact Lynn Russell, T: 07855 106096, E: lynn@topcobs.com

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The exciting final of the RoR/SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse Show Championship takes place this week at the prestigious Horse of the Year Show on Thursday 8th October.

There have been six qualifying shows for the final.  The most recent was at Burghley Horse Trials on 6th September, which was won by Ironman Muldoon ridden by Jane Webber and owned by Amanda Bowlby.  The runner up was RoR/Tattersalls Show Series winner Blackcurrant owned by Di Haine and ridden by Chantal Wootten. 

At the Vale View Equestrian Centre in August, the winner was Tony Tie, with Miss Capricorn landing the runner up position.  In July, Amezola and Divine Dancer qualified at the Wellington Equestrian Centre show, and Rogers Revenge (pictured) and Guar de Luc qualified at the Addington Manor Equestrian show.  They join last year's winner Another Man, and Whistle In the Wind, who qualified at the Osbaldeston Equestrian Centre, and Fast Mix and Mickey Croke who qualified at Badgeworth earlier in the year.

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Two years ago my Mum and I bought a 10 year old grey
gelding from a friend with point to pointing in mind, however a month later after standing novice champion at his first show just a week after learning to canter on the right lead our plans changed.

Gray Knight or GK, as he is known as at home, and I haven't really looked back since. After starting life at Henrietta Knight's, GK showed a little potential in
bumpers and hurdles before progressing to chases and then point to pointing, where he ran 25 times winning and being placed most times.

For the first summer GK and I contested in a number of show classes and were never out of the top 3, we ended the season as champion ex-racehorse at the SWPA championships. Mum then hunted him through the winter where he enjoyed field mastering and whipping in, proving to be a true gentleman. GK and I have now just spent the last two years continuing in show classes, as well as enjoying eventing, showjumping, pony club and just happy hacking. He is the nicest horse to do, and has a really laid back attitude as well as being very willing to learn. We have been chosen to represent pony club in area dressage and will be going to pony club camp.

I was compelled to write this story after standing supreme champion at an open show this weekend. I hope that him and I will perhaps one day qualify for the RoR show class and maybe even HOYS. If not I can genuinely say that GK is the best horse I have ever had and I hope the fun
we have together will continue.

For more pictures visit Success Stories.

(Written by Laura Grey, August 2009)

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Guinea Pigs, ex-racehorses rather than the small fluffy type (!), are needed for the next RoR one day clinic on 'Re-educating the ex-racehorse - where to start and how to proceed' on Saturday 21st November, supported by Baileys Horse Feeds.

There are also still places left on this clinic for owners who have just got their ex-racehorse or are thinking about getting an ex-racehorse. There will be demos by BE accredited coach and BD accredited trainer Nick Turner. In addition there will be lectures from a Baileys nutritionist expert on feeding, a farrier will talk about typical shoeing and hoof problems, and veterinary advice will be given on common ailments associated with ex-racehorses.

The clinic will be held at The Unicorn Trust Equestrian Centre, Netherswell, Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire GL54 1JZ. 

Tickets are £25 including coffee on arrival and lunch. To book tickets or if you have an ex-racehorse you can bring along to be one of our 'Guineas Pigs' please contact Claire Collier at Baileys Horse Feeds, T: 01371 853676, E: clairecollier@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

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Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) is pleased to announce that HRH Princess Haya has agreed to become its first Patron.

As British Horseracing’s official Charity for the welfare of horses which have retired from racing, it is very fitting and a privilege to have such a highly regarded Patron, particularly within the equestrian world. Her Royal Highness has an in-depth knowledge and passion for thoroughbreds and horseracing, as does Her husband His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Peter Deal, Chairman of RoR, said: “We are delighted and honoured that Princess Haya has kindly agreed to be our first Patron. The extensive equine knowledge and experience that Her Royal Highness will bring to the role will be invaluable to this important Charity, which continues to gain support from both the racing industry and the wider equine world.

HRH Princess Haya, said: “It is a particular pleasure for me to support Retraining of Racehorses, whose work I much admire and I hope that through my involvement I can assist them to raise awareness of the vital work they do in giving racehorses a career after racing. Many of HH Sheikh Mohammed’s racehorses are being retrained as are my own. It is a great pleasure for His Highness and myself that from our stables retrained racehorses are now competing in dressage, show jumping, eventing and showing classes.”

Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) was founded in 2000. It raises funds from within racing to provide and maintain facilities for the care, retraining and re-homing of former racehorses and to promote awareness of the suitability of the retrained racehorse for other equine careers.

Working closely with the sport horse organisations and media, RoR also promotes the adaptability of racehorses to other equestrian activities and has a well-established programme of competition sponsorship. In addition, RoR holds clinics across the country to help owners look after and train their former racehorses.

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The RoR Polocrosse Trophy was awarded to Sarah Simkin’s Porlock Lady (Luca) at the Polocrosse National Championships in August. 

Luca is only 15 hands and has been playing polocrosse for approximately five years. For the last three years, she has played A-grade, winning a number of best pony and number awards and has played in a number of internationals (most recently in the South Africa Ladies team for the Test Matches). She also enjoys dressage, jumping and fun rides.

For more information on polocrosse at Ashfields visit www.ashfieldspolocrosse.com

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The present leader of the Dressage Series is Anne Bostock on Bold Hunter, closely followed by Sam Perks on Rockcracker and Dee Lousada on Mister Bojangles.

Remember you have until 30th September to register for the Series this year.  Visit our Dressage Series section for more details.

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Swift Alliance ridden by Jonathan Martin won the final of the RoR Retrained Racehorse Challenge at the National Hunter Championship Show, Addington, on 9th September.  Many congratulations to them both, and indeed to all the qualifiers.

Full Results:
1st SWIFT ALLIANCE - Mr J Martin, 2nd MISTER JULIUS - Miss K Slater, 3rd OLIVER CROMWELL - Rebecca Middleton, 4th DOE NAL RUA - Hetty Stearn, 5th PRESTON MAGIC - Sally Bateson, 6th PEACETOWN - Tracy Hammond

Swift Alliance was winning his second Retrained Racehorse Championship having won last time in 2007.  Born in 1997, as an ex-racehorse he won one race at Folkestone but lacked speed for any major races and was sold ‘out of training’ by trainer Lady Herries.

Jonathan Martin who runs a livery yard bought Swift Alliance in 1999 and after re-educating the horse tried him in Riding Club competitions. He won his first dressage test with 75%, followed by two clear show jumping rounds. He went on to win with the West Sussex Riding Club team at the Royal International Horse Show, and went jumping at Foxhunter level.

In this Series, the former racehorses are asked to jump a small course of up to 3’0" mixed fences (with two 'optional' bonus fences of up to 3'6"). This is followed by an individual freestyle show, and then the conformation of the horse is judged.  The judges will forgive racing injuries as the emphasis of this class is on the retraining of the former racehorse. 

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Kicking King, the 2005 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, is also proving a success in the showing ring. 

He has participated in just two shows so far in his new life with Elaine Taaffe.  One was the RoR/Tattersalls Show Series class at the Tattersalls/Ward Union Show in Ireland where he was second and qualified for the Series Final at Hickstead next year.   

He also took part in the inaugural Racehorse to Riding Horse Class at the Dublin Horse Show, where he finished fourth.  He was up against some other notable racehorses such as Champion Hurdle winner Brave Inca who won the class, and former dual champion chaser Moscow Flyer who came fifth (pictured from left to right: Moscow Flyer, Kicking King, Brave Inca). 

Elaine is thrilled at his progress, commenting: "Judges love him but we need to do lots of work on him so I am doing dressage this winter with him. We are looking forward to Hickstead 2010 and hopefully more shows with RoR next year, once we get his gallop slower!" 

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The last polo prizes in the RoR Lycetts Polo Series of 2009 were presented at the International at Cowdray on Sunday, 6th September.  This included a prize awarded to Sam Hopkinson.   

2010 will see even more prizes as well as a residential retraining clinic in the Spring.  Watch this website for more information. 

The first polo clinic held on 6th July this year by RoR and the Hurlingham Polo Association was very well received with 50 people attending it at the HPA headquarters on 6th July.  Click here for the article on the clinic that appeared in the Polo Times September 2009 issue.
 

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A parade of ex-racehorses will take place at Doncaster Racecourse on Friday 11th September before racing.   Always popular with the racing public, you will get to see the horses in the paddock and enjoy hearing about their new careers.

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Qualifiers for the RoR Retrained Racehorse Challenge Championship Final are reminded to make their entries now as the closing date is 4th September.

The Final will take place at Addington on 9th September.   Good luck to all those taking part.   

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RoR was busy presenting more Awards at the weekend, this time at the Pony Club/Junior HPA Polo event which took place on Sunday 9th August at Cowdray. 

RoR gave a polo saddle to the best ex-racehorse in Junior HPA which was awarded to Magic Genie (IRE).  This seven-year-old mare had run three times for trainer Mick Easterby before going to Jack Richardson, a Cowdray Pony Club member and talented young polo player who played him in the Gannon final.

The second award, a bridle, was given to the best playing ex-racehorse in Pony Club polo which was awarded to Asofnow.  A ten-year-old point-to-point winning mare, she is owned and played by Old Berks member Hamish Denton.

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Former racehorses are also proving a success in the relatively new equine sport in this country, Polocrosse.

At the Ashfields Polocrosse Club in Essex, the ex-racehorse Spooks made his international debut earlier in June, playing with Neil Smith in the Tri-Nations in Ireland and then again in July, playing in the Test Matches against South Africa. In the latter, Spooks was drawn in the men’s South African pool and selected first by the South African captain to play a number 2. Although the Ladies drew, the South African men won by a narrow margin.

Bunny is Ashfields other playing ex-racehorse, and he also played in the Tri-Nations. Karen Smith has been playing him this season winning two “best number 3s” on him, and they’ve won all but one of their tournaments so far – where they lost on a golden goal!

RoR provide various prizes to ex-racehorses participating in national polocrosse matches.

For more information on polocrosse at Ashfields visit www.ashfieldspolocrosse.com

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Polo pony Marmite ridden by Mark Tomlinson was the inaugural winner of the £5,000 first prize in the new RoR Polo Series. 

The prizes were presented yesterday at the pre-Cartier Day HPA dinner, with Marmite being judged the most successful ex-racehorse on the polo circuit this season.

This eleven-year-old mare raced five times on the Flat under the racing name of Fille de Dauphin without troubling the judge.  She was bought by Bruce Urquhart, who won the RoR 'producer/sources' prize, from her trainer.  Following which the Bromley Martin family retrained her to play regularly in Low and Medium Goal polo matches.  

Mark Tomlinson then took Marmite on, and has now had her for two seasons, playing in the Queens Cup, Gold Cup and Cartier.  She is his second best pony and Mark will be playing her in the International this Sunday. 

Other RoR prizes awarded at the dinner were £2,000 each to Dashfa Baileys ridden by Henry Brett, and Crafty Politician ridden by Max Routledge who has excelled as both a playing pony and a polo stallion.

Finally a prize of £1,000 was awarded to United Onion (Onion) ridden by Robin Spicer, a former junior RoR winner (pictured).     

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Corofin Flyer ridden by William Fox-Pitt won the Retrained Racehorse Event Championship, sponsored by RoR and the National Trainers Federation (NTF), at Barbury Castle on 10th to 12th July 2009.

This ten-year-old gelding is clearly thriving in his eventing career, much more so than during his racing days having raced three times without any success.

Full results of the Championship which was open to all at Intermediate Novice Level were:  

1st COROFIN FLYER - William Fox-Pitt (pictured)
2nd SCOTTIE DUCATI - Austin O'Connor
3rd ALLIGATOR ALLEY - Matthew Heath
4th DRY OLD PARTY - Pippa Funnell
5th VALDASHO - Zoe Wilkinson
6th SEPTEMBER BLISS - Elizabeth Power 

In addition, double points were awarded for those that are qualified for the RoR Elite SEIB Eventing Performance series in this event.  Any thoroughbred that has raced in the UK, and is registered with the RoR and BE is eligible for this series. Points will be accumulated by BE from their results tables starting in Pre-Novice up to Advanced, and will be awarded from 1st to 6th place.

The winning prize of £5,000 to the ex-racehorse with the most points will be awarded at the British Breeding Awards in London in January 2010. Two runners-up prizes of £3,000 and £2,000 will also be awarded.

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Southwell Racecourse has very kindly supported the British Horseball Association this year by providing the venue for all of the International Training for both the junior and senior teams.

To show their appreciation, two teams provided a horseball match on the All Weather track in front of the stands at the recent family race day.

Teams from Nottingham (red) and Retraining of Racehorses (green) played an evenly matched game with RoR just winning by 1 goal.

The crowd particularly applauded Vindaloo (Mia Berry), the old racehorse who had filled many punters pockets at Southwell over the years, together with six other horses in the teams who were also former racehorses and regularly seen at Southwell during their career.

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Showing expert Lynn Russell who has previously won the RoR/SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse class at HOYS on Lin D’Estruval, is holding a one day Racehorse to Riding Horse Masterclass at her yard near Guildford, Surrey, on Saturday 29th August.

Held by Retraining of Racehorses in conjunction with Baileys Horse Feeds, the day provides the opportunity to have your ex-racehorse assessed and Lynn will offer help and advice on everything from groundwork and covering blemishes, to tack and turnout for the ring. Nutrition advice for each horse is also on hand from Baileys Horse Feeds to help you feed for condition without fizz.

Renowned for her consistent success with horse after horse, Lynn will give an insight into her preparation and show ring techniques and prove that you don’t have to be a professional to win, you just need professional standards!

Early booking is essential and at only £50 per horse, including lunch, places will go quickly. Overnight stabling can be arranged. Spectators are welcome at £25 each. To book or for further information contact Di Arbuthnot at the RoR on darbuthnot@ror.org.uk or 01488 648998.

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The first polo clinic held by RoR and the Hurlingham Polo Association to learn about retraining racehorses to play polo was well received with 50 people attending. 

Held on Monday 6th July at the  HPA Office, the day included:

A talk from racing and polo vet, James Main.
A talk from racehorse trainer, Charlie Mann.
A talk and demonstrations on schooling and retraining ex-racehorses, by renowned polo pony trainer David Morley.

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The final of the 2009 RoR/Tattersalls Show Series at the Hickstead's Show Jumping Derby meeting on 28th June was won by Blackcurrant, owned by Mrs Di Haine.

Ridden by Chantal Wootten, Blackcurrant, relished the space in the main arena to impress the judges, Bryan Smart and Jonathan Geake.  Having qualified at the Suffolk Show, this nine-year-old, is clearly much more successful in the show ring than on the racecourse where he ran 13 times over the jumps but was never placed. 

Juliet O'Brien rode last year's winner, Gaur Du Luc, into second place for owner Mrs L Farquar.  He also won the Veteran Prize for the second year running. Devon County Show qualifier, Harleston Linn, came third ridden by Guy Landau for owner John Dunlop.

The Show Series continues to go from strength to strength with a record 28 finalists, and is more competitive than ever.  RoR and Tattersalls would like to thank everyone for supporting the Series, and providing such a great illustration of how ex-racehorses can successfully be retrained in other equine disciplines.

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Former racehorse, Hazim, and his owner Anne Kewley were delighted to win the RoR prize of a year’s membership to British Dressage (BD) in the draw featured in the recent Horse and Hound show issue.

Hazim is now qualified to participate in the new RoR Dressage Series with British Dressage and SEIB, in which the winner will take home a considerable prize of £1,500 and commemorative trophy. Visit the RoR Dressage Series section on our website for more details.

Previously trained by Sir Michael Stoute during his racing career, Anne has been lightly competing Hazim in unaffiliated dressage competitions this summer as well as a few ridden RoR showing classes. This follows-on from his successful participation in the in-hand classes, having won the RoR/Speech Partnership class last year and qualifying for the TARRA in-hand final at Newmarket this August.

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The 2009 RoR and Lycetts Polo Series has begun with two prizes awarded to date.

Beeko ridden by Ollie Taylor was the Polo Pony Prize winner at the Gerald Balding Cup held at Cirencester on 31st May.  Lapa La La ridden by Ollie Cudmore won the prize at the Arthur Lucas Cup held at Beaufort on 6th June.

RoR will be awarding extra prizes this Sunday at the prestigious Queen's Cup Final at the Guards Polo Club.

To be in with a chance to win RoR prizes including a first prize of £5,000 to the ex-racehorse judged to be the most successful on the polo circuit as part of a new series this year REMEMBER TO REGISTER YOUR RACEHORSE WITH ROR. 

For more details of this new series and the RoR Lycetts Polo Series click here.

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The final of the 2009 RoR/Tattersalls Show Series will soon take place at the Hickstead's Show Jumping Derby meeting on 28th June.

It looks to be an exciting line up with more entries than ever this year at the qualifying shows held across the country.  Recent winners at these qualifying shows include:

Royal Windsor Horse Show:  Another Man ridden by Claire Oliver (pictured, courtesy of Real Time Imaging).

Devon County Show:  Harlestone Linn ridden by Guy Landau.

Hertfordshire County Show:  Is There More ridden by Miss D Bremner.

Heathfield & District Agricultural Show: Hyperion du Moulin II ridden by Graham Mays.

Hambleton Show:  Rogers Revenge ridden by Simon Charlesworth.

Suffolk Show:  Blackcurrant ridden by Mrs D Haine.

Royal Bath & West Show:  Best of the Blues ridden by Ella Stephens.

For the full list of shows and results click here.

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The South of England Show at Ardingly in June celebrated the Year of the Racehorse. On the first day of the show, 11th June, it staged a display of ‘Thoroughbreds through the Ages’ from mare and foal to racehorse and beyond, in addition to holding the RoR/Tattersalls Show Series class.  

A number of ex-racehorses were on parade during the display, all of whom now enjoy a variety of second careers from polo to simply hacking around the countryside.  Grand National winning jockey, Liam Treadwell, led the parade as pictured.   

The RoR/Tattersalls Show Series class is the last qualifier for the 2009 Final held at Hickstead.  Judged by the famous racing personality Jenny Pitman, the class was won by Hyperion du Moulin ridden by Graham Mays.

Visit the South of England website for more information.

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A reminder to all the qualifiers in the RoR/Tattersalls Show Series that entries into the final on 28th June at the Hickstead British Jumping Derby Meeting are closing now.

Please contact Hickstead direct to make your entry, T: 01273 834315, W: www.hickstead.co.uk 

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The new Eventing accumulator series in association with British Eventing (BE) has got off to a good start.

Elizabeth Power with her horse September Bliss is currently in the lead, with Christina Cook and her horse Carrig Dubh in second place.

To be eligible your thoroughbred must have raced in the UK, and you must register with the RoR and British Eventing. Points will be accumulated by BE from their results tables starting in Pre-Novice up to Advanced, and will be awarded from 1st to 6th place. The 2009 series will run from March to the end of the season.

The winning prize of £10,000 to the ex-racehorse with the most points will be awarded at the BE Annual Awards Ball.

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The next three-day residential RoR clinic will be held from 26th to 28th August at Osbaldeston, Lancashire, with top international and Olympic event rider Jeanette Brakewell.

Riders and their horses will be coached by Jeanette individually or in groups depending on the initial assessment. Whilst not being coached delegates are encouraged to watch the coaching of the other delegates. In addition, there will be talks from relevant experts such as a vet and a nutritionist.

The cost is extremely good value at £180, and there are only a few places remaining.  For more information and to book a place contact Di Arbuthnot at RoR, T: 01488 648998, E: darbuthnot@ror.org.uk

In addition, a one-day clinic for riders and their ex-racehorses will be held at the Unicorn Centre, Stow-on-the-Wold in November. Another one-day clinic will also be held at a venue in the West Country this year, exact location to be confirmed.  More details to feature on this website soon.

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The 2009 RoR/Tattersalls Show Series continues to prove popular with record entries this season.

Recent winners include Troppi Guai ridden by Rebecca Peace, who won the class at both the Leicestershire County Show and Newark & Nottinghamshire Show (pictured, courtesy of Real Time Imaging).

Another winner of the class at two shows was the RoR/SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse winner at HOYS in 2008, Another Man.  This half brother to Champion chaser One Man won the RoR/Tattersalls Show Series class at the Royal County of Berkshire Show ridden by Mrs Sara Hartland, and he won the class at the Royal Windsor Show for the second year running ridden by Claire Oliver.

Commanche Kate (aka Stroppy) ridden by Amanda Docherty has also found more success in the showing ring than on the racecourse finishing second at the Leicestershire County Show. She also enjoys show jumping and hunter trials, click here to read her success story.

Now in its fifth year, qualifiers nationwide in the Series go forward to the final at Hickstead's Show Jumping Derby meeting in June. Those who qualify after the South of England Show compete in the final in 2010.

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Five times Horse of the Year Show Showing Champion and RoR consultant, Shelley Perham, is holding a mini clinic for owners of ex-racehorses at the Ambitions Equestrian Centre, Gt Shefford, Berkshire on Monday 18th May.

Two sessions are planned at 3pm and 5pm.

Shelley will help iron out any schooling issues and advise on preparation and improvement for the show ring, along with lots of tips on tack, trimming and turnout.

To book please contact Shelley direct on 07753 982052 or email Perham4@aol.com

Cost per session: £20 per horse & rider.  RoR is subsidising the cost of the facility.

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Racehorse owners, mindful of welfare concerns, have taken steps to bolster the funds they give to Retraining of Racehorses (RoR), as racing's central charity involved with promoting the welfare of the industry's retired racehorses.

The Racehorse Owners Association (ROA) has approved that the surcharge paid by racehorse owners on entry fees will be increased from 50p to £1 as from 1st May 2009. 

Michael Harris, Chief Executive of the ROA, said: "The increase is a response to the ROA's concern about the welfare of retired racehorses and the need to ensure that there is an effective structure in place to monitor and respond to their needs.  We hope it will enable RoR to continue its excellent work in promoting the options available to retired racehorses."

Peter Deal, Chairman of RoR, said:  "This is terrific news.  Unsurprisingly, RoR's funding is under pressure this year and, at the same time, we are expecting greater demand on our services.  It is really very reassuring that the owners are prepared to increase their support, and the ROA Council agreed so readily, particularly in this current climate.  This demonstrates again the responsible attitude of owners towards the welfare of their racehorses."

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The 2009 RoR/Tattersalls Show Series has got off to a good start with record entries this season. 

Now in its fifth year, qualifiers nationwide go forward to the final at Hickstead's Show Jumping Derby meeting in June. Those who qualify after the South of England Show compete in the final in 2010.

The Series is judged under Riding Horse class rules where the horse is ridden by the judge and given marks, and then the conformation of the horse is judged.

From this year, all RoR qualifying classes will be open to ex-racehorses that have raced only, including those horses who have run in Point to Points. Horses must also be registered with RoR.

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RoR is running a residential clinic for riders and their ex-racehorses at the Northern Racing College, Doncaster, from 18th to 20th May with International Eventer Karen Dixon.

Riders and their horses will be coached by Karen for two sessions a day, individually or in groups depending on the initial assessment. Whilst not being coached delegates are encouraged to watch the coaching of the other delegates. In addition, there will be talks from relevant experts such as a vet and a nutritionist.

The cost is extremely good value at £180.  Only a few places remain so if you are interested please contact Di Arbuthnot at RoR as soon as possible, T: 01488 648998, E: darbuthnot@ror.org.uk

There will be another three-day residential clinic held from 26th to 28th August at Osbaldeston, Lancashire, with top international and Olympic event rider Jeanette Brakewell. In addition, a one-day clinic for riders and their ex-racehorses will be held at the Unicorn Centre, Stow-on-the-Wold in November. More details to feature on this website soon.

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RoR consultant Rowena Cook and her ex-racehorse Bombie will be taking part in the Training Demo with International Dressage Rider Paul Hayler on Saturday 4th April.

Run in association with RoR and Baileys Horse Feeds the Demo takes place at the Unex Towerlands Arena, Braintree, Essex, from 7.30pm to 10.30pm. 

The Demo will cover:  first steps with a young horse, specific training for ex-racehorses, and demonstrations from novice to Grand Prix.

For more information and tickets to attend visit www.paulhaylerdressage.co.uk

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A parade of ex-racehorses forms part of the afternoon events at the annual Middleham Stables Open Event on Good Friday, 10th April.   

The parade is headed by Specialize, a winner of 12 races he is now 17-years-old and is an important member of trainer Karl Burke's team leading the young horses around the gallops . 

Various equine sports will be represented at the parade, which aims to highlight that ex-racehorses do have a second career after racing, and can be successful in many different equine disciplines.

For more information visit www.middlehamstablesopenevent.co.uk

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In 2009 RoR is offering a first prize of £5,000 to the ex-racehorse judged to be the most successful on the polo circuit. Two runners-up prizes of £3,000 and £2,000 will also be awarded.

The prizes are open to any polo pony that has raced in the UK or Ireland, and is registered with RoR. It is applicable for High Goal, Medium Goal, Low Goal and Junior HPA ponies. They will be judged by a Committee, in conjunction with the Clubs and the HPA, on their polo performance (past and present) with their racing record taken into account. If the owner did not produce the horse, 20% of the prize money will go to the person who did, to reward those that have retrained ex-racehorses.

One of the objectives is to encourage more ex-racehorses that have taken up polo to be registered with RoR. This should in turn help polo, because it could open up the way for further funds. RoR will also give £500 to the club that registers the greatest number of ex-racehorses relative to its membership.

Simply register with RoR on this website, it is quick and free. Also please submit a performance record, with details of past tournaments, achievements and future plans, to Di Arbuthnot, RoR director of operations, email darbuthnot@ror.org.uk

The prizes will be presented at the pre-Cartier Day HPA dinner on 23rd July.

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Shelley Perham, a RoR consultant and winner of four consecutive Horse of the Year Show Championships, will be on-hand for advice at the Ponies UK Show at Malvern on Thursday 2nd April.

She will give help and advice free of charge to those registered with RoR, before and after the RoR/Tattersalls Show Series qualifier class.

Please contact Shelley direct on 07753 982052 or email perham4@aol.com to register your interest and make arrangements to meet on the day.  Shelley will be able to advise on tack and turnout, and help iron out any schooling issues that arise on the day.

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Please be assured your Registrations are being processed and your Registration Card and Number will be with you soon. 

We are receiving lots of registrations at the moment due to the busy Showing Season starting, and apologise for the delay in sending them out to you.  Please be patient, your registration of your ex-racehorse with RoR is important to us.

If you have an urgent enquiry about your registration then contact darbuthnot@ror.org.uk, please do not ring the Helpline as this is for retraining help only.

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Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) and British Dressage (BD) are pleased to announce a new points championship with a considerable prize of £1,500 and commemorative trophy to the winner.

The RoR/BD Dressage Championship is open to any level, from grass roots to the higher levels.  The ex-racehorse winning the most BD points between 1 September 2008 and 31 August 2009 will be the winner, with prizes also awarded for second (£500) and third (£300) places.  Horses must be registered with RoR and BD to qualify.

The prizes will be awarded at the BD National Convention in November.

Watch out in the Horse and Hound show issues for details of our prize draw to win free BD membership and BD horse registration for those horses registered with RoR. 

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The parade of ex-racehorses at Sandown Park Racecourse on Saturday 7th March, Imperial Cup Day, was enjoyed by plenty of racegoers.

The parade was headed by Champion Hurdle winner, Make A Stand, who now enjoys his second life hunting and hacking around the countryside.  He also had fun cantering past the stands on the racecourse again on Saturday, with other well known ex-racehorses, Celibate and Blowing Wind.

Organised by RoR, various equine disciplines were represented including showing, with former Horse of the Year Show winner Milliemeter on parade.  Also ex-racehorses now doing dressage, show jumping, cross country, and polocrosse (similar to polo and lacrosse), as well as a few horses from the Moorcroft Racehorse Welfare Centre.

The parade aims to highlight that ex-racehorses do have a second career after racing, and can be successful in many different equine disciplines. The RoR was also present to answer any queries first-hand.

If you couldn't make this date or live in the north there is another parade taking place at the Middleham Racing Stables' Open Day on Easter Good Friday, 10th April.

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Can you help? Three guinea pigs, ex-racehorses rather than the small fluffy type (!), are needed for the next RoR / Baileys clinic at Ardingly, West Sussex on 1st April. They are required for the practical demonstration by showing expert Lynn Russell, who won the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse class at HOYS in 2007.

Your ex-racehorse must be able to lunge, and be a potential ‘racehorse to riding horse’. Please email a picture and information on your horse to Claire Collier, Baileys Horse Feeds, at claire@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk , alternatively give her a call for more information on 01371 853676.

The clinic will also provide tips on feeding from the Baileys nutritionist expert, typical shoeing and hoof problems presented by a farrier, and vet’s advice will be given on common ailments associated with ex-racehorses.

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The RoR in conjunction with Baileys Horse Feeds is running another one of their popular one-day clinics for riders with ex-racehorses.  To be held on Wednesday 1st April, the venue is the South of England Centre, Ardingly, West Sussex.

Showing expert Lynn Russell, who won the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse class at HOYS in 2007 on Lin D’Estruval will do a practical demonstration. 

The clinic will also provide tips on feeding from the Baileys nutritionist expert, typical shoeing and hoof problems presented by a farrier, and vet’s advice on common ailments associated with ex-racehorses. 

Tickets are £25, available from: Claire Collier, Baileys Horse Feeds, T: 01371 853676, E: claire@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk 

RoR will also be running a residential clinic for riders and their ex-racehorses at the Northern Racing College, Doncaster, from 18th to 20th May with International Eventer Karen Dixon.  In addition there will be a residential clinic at the British Racing School, Newmarket, in August (date to be confirmed).  More details to feature on this website soon. 

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The awards for the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse Points Championship were supported by the RoR at a dinner in January 2009, at which the RoR sponsored Yogi Breisner to speak.   The Points Championship allows riders and their horses to collect points while competing in their chosen disciplines at their usual competitions.

Results for 2008 were:

Combined: JABULANI - Mrs Sharron Hepworth
Eventing: NATIVE CAPTION - Miss Karen Harrison
Showing: BLUE STREAK - Miss Joey Ellis
Showjumping: MIDNIGHT ROYAL - Mrs Helen Edwards
Dressage: KING'S PIPER - Miss Liz Harcombe
Endurance: ALDERNEY PRINCE - Mrs Kate Williams 

For further information on the Championship visit www.racehorse2ridinghorse.co.uk

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From 2009, RoR is sponsoring a new Eventing accumulator series in association with British Eventing (BE).

To be eligible your thoroughbred must have raced in the UK, and you must register with the RoR and British Eventing. Points will be accumulated by BE from their results tables starting in Pre-Novice up to Advanced, and will be awarded from 1st to 6th place. The 2009 series will run from March to the end of the season.

The winning prize of £10,000 to the ex-racehorse with the most points will be awarded at the BE Annual Awards Ball.

Don't miss your chance to participate in this exciting new series for 2009, register your ex-racehorse with RoR and BE to qualify.

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If you can’t find the information on our website to help you care for and retrain your ex-racehorse, and require more personal and in-depth help, then please contact our Helpline by phone or email.

Telephone 01780 740773

This is the telephone number for the RoR consultants Fred and Rowena Cook of Equine Management & Training. If they are unable to answer your call immediately please leave a message and they will return your call as soon as possible. The helpline is available seven days a week.

Both Fred and Rowena Cook have extensive experience and expertise working with all types of horses from the various equestrian disciplines whether it be ground training, backing, schooling and jumping young horses or re-schooling and corrective training for older horses. Over recent years more and more horses off the track have benefited from their retraining and progressive schooling programmes, subsequently taking up new lives hunting, show jumping, eventing, dressage etc.

Email asktheexperts@ror.org.uk

Email us with any more questions you may have and we will do our best to answer them. The RoR has a selection of professional consultants from all disciplines. Once we see your enquiry we will direct it onto the right person accordingly. Having answered your initial enquiry they will provide their contact details should you wish to continue contact.

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From 2009, all RoR qualifying classes will be open to ex-racehorses that have 'RACED' only, including those horses who have run in Point to Points.

The TARRA series is open to ex-racehorses that have been in training or have raced.

Further changes to rules in 2009 include the lower age limit of 15 for riders and an 'any' height limit for horses. The age for the highest placed Veteran will now be 15 years or older.

The Retrained Racehorse Challenge will now be scored per jump for style marks but otherwise remains the same format.

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Monkey Boy ridden by S Henry won the RoR and Endurance GB Championship in 2008, and was presented with the RoR Trophy at the Annual Endurance GB Dinner and Prize Giving on 29th November.

A clear winner with 413.4 PF Points, Monkey Boy is now 17 years old, having originally been in training with Jack Berry where he raced several times and was placed as a two-year-old.

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There are regular Horses in Training Sales held around the country of which Brightwells (Ascot), Doncaster Bloodstock Sales (Doncaster) and Tattersalls (Newmarket) have successfully sold on horses to other disciplines. The next Horses in Training Sales are at Doncaster Bloodstock Sales on 17th and 18th December, and at Brightwells on 22nd December.

Before going to these sales you need to be prepared, visit our FAQ section for more detailed advice.

You need to be sure for what purpose you are looking to buy a horse and to have a price in mind that you are willing to pay. Contact the sales company and ask to be sent a catalogue and Buyers Guide. Read the Guide and sales company’s conditions carefully, they will tell you how as a purchaser you are protected. Check if there is commission charged on the purchase and whether it is subject to VAT.

Take particular notice if the horse you are interested in is subject to a veterinary examination or if it is being sold as it stands. Does the horse have any vices, does it windsuck, weave or crib bite? Remember some livery yards do not accept horses with vices. It is possible to find out something about the horse you are interested in before the sale by talking to the horse’s trainer or owner. Most are very willing to tell you something about their horse and contacts can be obtained from the sales company. 

Many ex-racehorses at these sales are sold on to continue racing or to go into the breeding sector. Some are exported or bought by purchasers from other parts of the equine sport world and successfully achieved a second career.

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The RoR clinic run in conjunction with Baileys Horse Feeds at the Northern Racing College in November was a huge success with nearly 100 ex-racehorse enthusiasts attending.

The feedback has been excellent, with the highlight being the ridden demonstration by Olympic and International Eventer, Karen Dixon MBE (pictured), who stressed the importance of keeping a thoroughbred’s mind focused and interested in what they are doing.

Also well received were the tips on feeding from the Baileys Nutritionist expert, typical shoeing and hoof problems amusingly presented by the farrier, and the vet’s advice on common ailments associated with ex-racehorses.

For those with little experience of the racing world, the talk by trainer’s wife Vicky Smart on the typical day in the life of a racehorse was most enlightening.

Everyone who attended went away having learnt a great deal to benefit their relationship with their ex-racehorse.

In fact interest was so great, that RoR is now planning a residential clinic at the Northern Racing College, near Doncaster, in May 2009. Also another one day clinic will be held at Ardingly, East Sussex on 1st April 2009.

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Nottingham Reds won the RoR sponsored Midlands Regional Final for Horseball on 5th October.  

The team, made up of all ex-racehorses, competed against mixed teams from Newcastle, Melton, Rutland and Lions in a very close competition. 

Other RoR prizes were best male rider on an ex-racehorse, Ollie Blower, and best lady rider on an ex-racehorse, Annette Harris, both of whom were awarded RoR jackets. 

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RoR awarded a trophy to the winner of the In-Hand Ex-Racehorse Showing Class, Kensington Grasshopper and Katie Bowden, at the recent Festival of Champions.

The Festival held on Saturday 1st November at Aintree Racecourse is for all horses who have qualified through the many different local riding clubs across the country.

The full results for the ex-racehorses classes were:

In-Hand Ex-Racehorse
Champion:  Kensington Grasshopper - Katie Bowden
Reserve:  Moofaji - Diane Drysdale

Ridden Ex-Racehorse
Champion:  Dan De Man - Anne Parkinson
Reserve:  Jacinto - Jenny Lovell

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Mr Craig Smith recently won a Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) coat following his visit to the RoR stand at the opening meeting of the jump season at Cheltenham Racecourse on 17th and 18th October.

Craig was the first person to register his ex-racehorse Opportune on the RoR website following his visit to the stand. Opportune ran 40 times and is now happily retrained as a hunter.

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After many requests for another Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) lecture demo, a new date has been arranged. Supported by Baileys Horse Feeds and run in conjunction with RoR, this latest clinic is to be held at the Northern Racing College, near Doncaster, on Friday 21st November.

This full day clinic starts at 9.30am with coffee before moving on to lectures from Vet - Mark Collins, Farrier - Craig McNeil, Feed Adviser - Caroline Dickens, and Racehorse Trainer - Bryan Smart. All the experts will discuss various aspects such as the life of a horse in training, feeding your ex-racehorse, common injuries and medical problems with Thoroughbreds as well as typical TB feet and shoeing issues!

The day will be ideal for those who have bought, or are considering buying, an ex-racehorse and want to learn more about introducing them to ‘ordinary’ life.  There will be plenty of time to ask questions from each expert and chat to other like minded ex-racehorse owners.

After lunch, Olympic and International Eventer, Karen Dixon MBE, will be helping some ‘guinea pigs’ with their ex-racehorses, demonstrating how to improve their way of going, and illustrating her practical, down-to-earth approach to schooling and reschooling horses at all stages of their training.

Tickets are £25 including lunch. Contact Sam Gurden at Baileys Horse Feeds for more information and to book. Telephone 01371 853676 or email sam@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk .

We look forward to seeing you there.

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Another Man won the prestigious RoR/South Essex Insurance Brokers Racehorse to Riding Horse Championship at the Horse of the Year Show last week.  

Ridden by Claire Oliver he qualified for the Championship at the Addington Equestrian Centre in July. 

This half brother to Champion chaser One Man is having plenty of success in the showing ring this year having also won the RoR/Tattersalls Show Series Class at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in May. 

The full results for the RoR/SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse Championship are:

1st ANOTHER MAN - Claire Oliver
2nd SHAHZAN HOUSE - Jane Webber
3rd MICKEY CROKE - Charlotte Salisbury
4th LIN D'ESTRUVAL - Lynn Russell
5th MILLIEMETER - Emily Curtis
6th SHERKHAN - Rachel Thomas

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Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) will be present at the opening meeting of the jump season at Cheltenham Racecourse on 17th and 18th October.

RoR has a stand as part of the Showcase Exhibition which brings together information on not only the retraining of racehorses but also breeding, owning and training racehorses. 

We will be on-hand to answer any questions you may have and to offer advice.  We look forward to seeing you there.  

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Several ex-racehorses were awarded RoR prizes at the Pontispool Horse Trials last weekend, in the Pre-Novice Class:

1st  608  Ardroe Hill ridden by Rebecca Hunt, finished 8th overall 

2nd 270  Papatuu ridden by Becky Wright, finished 11th overall

3rd  267  Mr Christie ridden by Rhianwen Llewelyn, finished 14th overall

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Seven ex-racehorses were good enough to participate in the Rolex European Polo Championship in Hamburg last weekend.

Team GB won this Championship where ten teams from different countries were represented.  Riding for Team GB was Max, Ollie and Nick Pepper and Eden 0rmerod (pictured).

Two of the ex-racehorses participating had previously won RoR awards in polo:  Crafty Politician (Max Routledge), and Princess Tina (Ollie Cudmore) who won the best RoR Polo Pony Prize at the Longdole Trophy/Retraining of Racehorse Day on 3rd August.

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Rivertown ridden by Anna MacDonald won the RoR Retrained Racehorse Challenge final at Addington on 3rd September 2008. 

The thoroughbreds are asked to jump a small course of up to 2’ 9’’ mixed fences, then do a show, and then the conformation of the horse is judged. 80% of the marks are for the jumping performance and show performance with 20% marks for conformation.

Rivertown, otherwise known as Ben at home, is clearly enjoying his new career.  He was previously in training some years ago with Amanda Perratt running on the Flat and over Hurdles.  For the full success story on Rivertown and more photos click here.

Rivertown also won Champion Veteran.  Other results were: 

2nd PRESTON MAGIC - Sally Bateson, 3rd DOE NAL RUE - Hetty Stearn, 4th MISTER JULIUS - Kayleigh Slater, 5th HANDSOME BADSHA - F Abagnano, 6th SWIFT ALLIANCE - K Botting.

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RoR is launching a new Polo Series in 2009 starting with an exciting RoR Polo Day especially for former racehorses, in association with the Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA).

The trophy and a winning prize of £10,000 will be awarded on the day to the owner of the Best Playing Pony.  There will also be cash prizes to the player and the person who originally registered the winning pony with RoR. 

Any horse that has raced in the UK and is registered with RoR is eligible.  Look out on this website for more details.

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Horse of the Year Show qualifier, Differential, was one of several ex-racehorses parading at Doncaster Racecourse during the St Leger Festival Meeting on Friday 12th September.

Differential ran 23 times in his career as a racehorse winning 5 flat races. He was bought by trainer Bryan Smart as a two-year-old and has remained in his care ever since.  Sadly at the end of 2003, Differential’s racing career came to an abrupt end when he fractured two vertebrae in his neck after getting cast. However, he proved the perfect patient and under the care of trainer’s wife and Equine Sports Therapist Vicky they began the long process of rehabilitation and retraining.

2007 saw Differential and Vicky’s first full season in the show ring and their patience was rewarded when they won the RoR class at Area 1a and qualified for the Hickstead final on their first outing of the season. A trip down to muddy Sussex was worthwhile when they came 4th in the RoR/Tattersalls sponsored Thoroughbred Show Horse Championship.

This was followed by a win at Borrowby Show, 4th place at Arena UK in the SEIB HOYS Racehorse to Riding Horse qualifier, and 2nd at Burghley and that coveted qualification for the Horse of the Year Show.

Vicky concludes: “The chance to compete at The Horse of the Year Show was a dream come true for me.  He went as well as he possibly could and behaved impeccably. He gave Lucy Killingbeck- the ride judge – a well mannered and obedient ride and stood like a rock when the crowd clapped and cheered as if he had been doing this job all his life.”

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A parade of ex-racehorses will take place at Doncaster Racecourse during the St Leger Festival Meeting on Friday 12th September.

Organised by RoR, various equine disciplines will be represented in the Paddock before racing. The parade aims to highlight that ex-racehorses do have a second career after racing, and can be successful in many different equine disciplines.

Trainers wifes Vicky Smart and Deirdre Johnston will be riding their ex-racehorses, who have gone on to be extremely successful in the show ring. There will also be two dressage horses, two polo ponies, one a RoR prize winner, and some Eventers including the recent RoR winner at the British Eventing Festival, Miss Valentine. Trainer Mark Johnston is bringing his hack, and the Northern Racing School will be showing how ex-racehorses have helped many new recruits to the industry learn to ride.

The RoR will also be present to answer any queries first-hand.

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The winner of the Retrained Racehorse Challenge 2008 Final at Addington on 3rd September will win a 'Red Rosette' necklace by Rosemary Heatherington.  Every finalist will also take home an RoR jacket and finalist rosette.  There are also 2 chances to qualify for the RoR/Tattersalls Thoroughbred Show Horse Series for 2009 at this show on the 3rd and at the BSHA National Championships on 4th/5th September at the same venue.

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Former racehorse Miss Valentine ridden by Rebecca Howe was awarded a training bursary of £250 at the BE Grassroots Festival in the Bailey's Intro championship section.  She was the highest placed ex-racehorse registered with the RoR at this Festival held in August at Aston-Le-Walls.

A further £250 was awarded to Tricky Trevor ridden by Claire Pointing, winner of the Shires Equestrian Pre-Novice championship section at the Festival.

Miss Valentine will be one of several successful ex-racehorses parading at Doncaster Racecourse on Friday 12th September before racing.

(Photograph of Miss Valentine ridden by Rebecca Howe.)

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Showing expert Lynn Russell, who won last year’s Racehorse to Riding Horse class at HOYS on Lin D’Estruval (pictured), is holding a one day Master Class at her yard near Guildford, Surrey, on Tuesday 9th September.

Held by Retraining of Racehorses in conjunction with Baileys Horse Feeds, the day provides the opportunity to have your ex-racehorse assessed and Lynn will offer help and advice on everything from groundwork and covering blemishes to tack and turnout for the ring. Nutrition advice for each horse is also on hand from Baileys Horse Feeds to help you feed for condition without fizz.

Renowned for her consistent success with horse after horse, Lynn will give an insight into her preparation and show ring techniques and prove that you don’t have to be a professional to win, you just need professional standards!

Early booking is essential and at only £50 per horse, including lunch, places will go quickly. Overnight stabling can be arranged. Spectators are welcome at £25 each. To book or for further information contact Di Arbuthnot at the RoR on darbuthnot@ror.org.uk or 01488 648998.

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RoR consultants, Fred and Rowena Cook, of Equine Management and Training, are now offering a Video/DVD Analysis service.

They appreciate that many owners either do not have transport or cannot find a suitable trainer within their locality so, to overcome the problem, if you send them some footage of you working with your horse, whether on the ground, in the saddle or both, they will then provide a written consultation containing help and advice.

For further information on what your Video/DVD should include and price details, then please email: enquiries@equine-training.co.uk

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REMINDER:  29TH AUGUST IS YOUR LAST CHANCE TO ENTER FOR THE RE-TRAINED RACEHORSE CHALLENGE at Addington Equestrian Centre on 3rd September 2008.  Late entries also being accepted for the Tattersalls Thoroughbred Show Horse Series qualifier for 2009. Late entries will be accepted up until 29th August ONLY at 100% surcharge.

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A pony originally given as a wedding present was the winner of the RoR polo pony prize at the Cartier International last weekend.

Jonny Good won with his pony Lambourn.  She was purchased from trainer Ralph Beckett by Robert Thame who then gave her to Jonny as a wedding present.  The idea being that he retrained her and then sold her on, and they would split the profit.  However, she is now his best pony and definitely not for sale.

Lambourn was in training with Ralph Beckett when he trained in Lambourn.  She raced nine times as a two and three-year-old being placed once at Doncaster, under the name of Lalapaanzi.

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A new RoR Eventing Series was announced at the RoR/NTF Retrained Racehorse Event Championship at Barbury this weekend.

From 2009, RoR is sponsoring a new Eventing accumulator series in association with British Eventing (BE). 

Any thoroughbred that has raced in the UK, and is registered with Weatherbys and RoR is eligible. Points will be accumulated by British Eventing from their results tables starting in Pre-Novice up to Advanced, and will be awarded from 1st to 6th place.  The 2009 series runs from March to the end of the season.

The winning prize of £10,000 to the ex-racehorse with the most points will be awarded at the BE Annual Awards Ball.

The Series was developed following the great support shown for the RoR/NTF Retrained Racehorse Event Championship at Barbury Castle. 

Now in its second year, this year's event was won by top New Zealand event rider, Joe Meyer, with Clifton Lush who had previously raced in New Zealand. Meyer intends to aim Clifton Lush at the WEG 2008 and London Olympics 2012. 

Eight of the top ten horses in the Event had raced, proving themselves incredibly adaptable and successful to this form of second career.  On Saturday 6th July a unique parade showcasing 12 potential eventing stars from various training establishment across Britain, who are nearing the end of their racing careers, was well received by the eventing world despite awful weather.

Don't miss your chance to participate in this exciting new series for 2009, register your ex-racehorse with RoR to qualify.

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Gaur-du-Luc won the 2008 final of the RoR/Tattersalls Show Series at Hickstead's Show Jumping Derby meeting this weekend on 29th June.  Ridden by Juliet O'Brien, this ex-racehorse also won the Best Veteran Championship Prize. 

Gaur-du-Luc qualified for the Final by coming first at the Suffolk Show in May, and is clearly now thriving in the showing ring having been in training some years ago with famous Jump trainer Martin Pipe.

The full results are:

1st GAUR-DU-LUC - ridden by Juliet O'Brien
2nd LIN D'ESTRUVAL - ridden by Lyn Russell
3rd SWIFT ALLIANCE - ridden by Miss K Botting
4th HYPERION DU MOULIN - ridden by Graham Mays
5th DOUBLE CHANCE - ridden by Emily Curtis
6th PLACID MAN - exhibited by Alex Embiricos

Winner of the Best Veteran Championship Prize:  GAUR-DE-LUC ridden by Juliet O'Bien

Well done to all those who qualified for the final and took part.  It was a superb final and top class quality exhibits.  Still plenty of shows left to qualify for next year. 

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RoR is holding a residential three-day clinic for you and your ex-racehorse from 11th to 13th August at The British Racing School in Newmarket, Suffolk. 

The coach for the clinic is Nick Turner, a British Eventing Development team coach recommended by Yogi Breisner, the BE team coach.  Nick has show jumped and evented successfully, and trained horses to 4* level.

Riders and their horses will initially be assessed first thing on Monday 11th August at the Racing School in Newmarket.  Accommodation at the School is available from Sunday evening if required.

Coaching will involve two sessions a day, individually or in groups depending on the initial assessment.  In addition, there will be talks from a vet, a nutritionist as well as visits to Newmarket. 

Great value at £150 for the three days with DIY livery.  Anybody who is interested in attending this course please contact RoR.  Apply soon for this course as places are restricted to 12.

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A Racehorse to Riding Horse Master Class Workshop will be held with Lyn Russell, at Durfold Farm, Surrey, on Tuesday 9th September.   The Workshop will cover:

Bring your ex-racehorse and have an individual assessment for type and recommended guidelines on feeding.

Ground work and in-hand presentation, and conformation.

Trimming legs, manes and tails etc, correct use of products, saddlery recommendations, covering up lumps and blemishes.

Ride assessment, recommended improvements, schooling and ground work.

Overnight B&B can be offered for your horse @ £30 per night inclusive of bedding and feed.

Cost is £50 to include lunch. Spectators welcome @ £25. 

Please contact RoR for more details or if you are interested in attending.

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The first RoR polo pony prize of the season at the Beaufort Polo Club was awarded to Scarlet.

Scarlet had previously raced for trainer William Mullins under the name of of Sigy Point.  She is now played and owned by Eden Ormerod, who played her in the winning team, Emlor, in the Arthur Lucas Cup on 8th June.

The second RoR polo pony prize at the Beaufort Polo Club at the International was awarded to Mark Tomlinson's Penelope.  She raced in the name of Dancing Penney and ran 43 times and won 3 races trained by Bryn Palling.

The winner at the Warwickshire at Cirencester was Charlie Hanbury's Paprika.

At the Gold Cup semi-finals at Cowdray, Noche (Juan Martin Nero) and Shannon (Gonzalito Pieres) were the RoR winners.

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31 ex-racehorses have qualified and are entered in the Tattersalls and RoR Thoroughbred Show Horse Series 2008. Six to eight of the finalists will have the opportunity to ride in the prestigious Hickstead main ring for the final judging on Derby day.

Traditional finalist dress of top hat and stock is optional, so please feel free to change your attire for the final if you wish.

Stabling at nearby Plumpton Racecourse is being provided free of charge courtesy of RoR and Tattersalls.

Booking via RoR office – GOOK LUCK TO YOU ALL and please enjoy your well deserved day!

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The work done by Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) was recently recognised by the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) by it receiving the BEVA Equine Welfare Award for 2008.

Previous recipients include the Donkey Sanctuary, Sir Peter O'Sullivan, Professor Derek Knottenbelt, and the Brooke Hospital.

RoR director of operations, Di Arbuthnot, said: "We're absolutely delighted to be given the award, which the organisers say is in recognition of the tireless work carried out in retraining racehorses and the education of owners, which probably refers to the clinics we put on."

The award, sponsored by the Blue Cross, will be presented at the BEVA congress in Liverpool in September. 

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Entries close today for the RoR/Tattersalls Show Series Final at Hickstead.  If you have not already made your entry please do so immediately!

Remember if anyone requires free stabling at Plumpton for the Final please email or ring Shelley Perham at the RoR.

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Anyone considering taking on an ex-racehorse, or who already owns a Thoroughbred, will benefit from a lecture demonstration evening at Greatwood on Tuesday 10th June at 6.30pm.

The Marlborough based charity rescues, rehabilitates and where possible rehomes former racehorses.

There will be a riding demonstration by Jamaican event rider Sam Albert, who has already secured a place at the Olympics in Hong Kong. Sam has successfully brought on many former racehorses to event and whilst all ex-racers cannot go on to such great things, Sam has many tips and advice on how to get the most out of your horse.

Greatwood's founder Helen Yeadon has a lifetime's experience of horses to share and Dr Sven Kold, of the Willesley Equine Clinic, is one of the country's leading equine vets. A nutritionist from Dodson & Horrell will also be on hand to answer any questions.

Tickets cost just £5 plus 50p postage if you would like to guarantee a place - there are limited spaces. Please call Greatwood on 01672 514535.

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British horseracing’s official charity for the welfare of horses who have retired from racing, Retraining of Racehorses (RoR), officially launched its new website today at www.ror.org.uk .

Visitors to the site can easily find information on ex-racehorses, from how to go about owning and looking after an ex-racehorse, to the various competitions under the RoR Series.

Each equine discipline is uniquely colour coded to enable users to quickly go to the area of the website they are most interested in, be it polo, showing, endurance, eventing, show jumping, dressage, or simply hacking.

An important addition to the site is the facility to register an ex-racehorse online to qualify for the RoR Series. Owners with ex-racehorses not competing in the RoR Series are also encouraged to register their horse, as are visitors to the site who are interested in owning an ex-racehorse.

To illustrate the benefits of having an ex-racehorse there are many success stories to view, more famous ones are listed in the 'Hall of Fame'. Information on RoR itself is also featured including a short video featuring Clare Balding, and details of the RoR Clinics and the charitable retraining centres it helps support.

Initial feedback on the site, which was designed by PinkGreen Creative with equine marketing specialist Jackie Hutchinson of Pace Marketing Solutions, has been very positive with many registrations being made each day.

Di Arbuthnot, RoR director of operations, said: “There is an increasing interest in ex-racehorses and entries to the RoR series for all equine sports. This new website provides a wealth of information to help owners as well as promoting the benefits of owning an ex-racehorse.

“In addition, RoR can build up a valuable database illustrating the whereabouts of ex-racehorses, and ensuring the right information and competitions are provided by RoR to help and encourage potential owners.” 

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Another Man, the half brother to Champion chaser One Man, won the RoR/Tattersalls Show Series Class at the Royal Windsor Horse Show on Friday 9th May, ridden by Clare Oliver. 

Judged by Henrietta Knight and John Conifey it was a very strong class this year.

Her Majesty the Queen's horse, Shepherd's Delight, finished third and at 18 years-old was awarded the best veteran prize.

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Prizes in polo for the RoR Lycetts Hamilton Polo Series started on 1st June.  The first polo match was at Cirencester in the Gerald Balding Cup.  Visit the RoR Series Polo page for more matches.

Register your ex-racehorse now to qualify for these prizes.

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'Retraining the ex-racehorse with Richard Maxwell' Clinic - 23rd April, ILPH Centre

Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) and Baileys Horse Feeds presented a clinic at the ILPH Centre at Snetterton in Norfolk on 23rd April 2008 on:

'Retraining the ex-racehorse with Richard Maxwell'

This one day lecture/demo included advice from a top vet, nutritionist and trainer, to help explain the pros and cons of buying and re-training an ex-racehorse, as well as offering some practical tips on how to overcome some of the common issues.

Richard Maxwell provided practical ground work and ridden demonstrations to show how, with the right training, you can help your horse’s manners and way of going improve.

For more information contact: Sam Gurden, Baileys Horse Feeds, T: 01371 853676, E: sam@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

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Don't leave it too late to enter your ex-racehorse into the relevant show classes at the Yorkshire Sport Horse Show on 11th June.  New to the RoR Series in 2008, the Yorkshire Sport Horse Show will be holding a qualifier class for the Retrained Racehorse Challenge for Addington 2008, and a qualifier class for the RoR/Tattersalls Show Series for Hickstead 2009.

Entries close on 10th May.  Contact the Show Secretary for the schedule:  Mrs Sue Hayhurst, Hope Inn, Rudland, Fadmoor, York  YO62 7JJ.

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RoR is organising a Retrained Racehorse Training Day in conjunction with HPA on Monday 2nd June 2008 at Watership Down, Berkshire. The day is by invitation only from the HPA. For enquiries please contact us.

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British Eventing is pleased to announce that Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) will award a cash prize of £250 to the two highest placed Thoroughbreds at the British Eventing Grassroots Festival held at Aston-Le-Walls (9-10 August).

RoR, sponsors of the Retrained Racehorse Event Championship, is pleased to offer this new £500 prize fund, divided between the Bailey’s Intro and Shires Equestrian Pre-Novice championship sections.

Di Arbuthnot, Director of RoR said: “If you are the proud owner of a Thoroughbred and event, then you could be walking away with an extra prize! Too often Thoroughbreds are pigeon-holed purely as racers rather than sport horses, but increasingly Thoroughbreds are topping the results table at many events across the UK."

Mike Etherington-Smith, British Eventing Sport Director said: “We welcome this new prize fund initiative in support of the Grassroots Festival. Eventing can be a successful second career for many Thoroughbreds and this award recognises the versatility of the breed.”

To be in with a chance of winning this great prize, Thoroughbred owners registered to event with British Eventing must sign up to the series by registering their ex-racehorse with RoR, just follow the links from the home page of this site.

For more information on the Festival contact Liza Randall, PR and Communications Manager at British Eventing on 02476 698868 or email liza.randall@britisheventing.com

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On 4th May Leicestershire Show is holding qualifiers for the RoR/Tattersalls Show Series and the Retrained Racehorse Challenge, both of which are qualifiers for 2008.  For further details visit the RoR Show Series pages or for the contact details of the show secretary visit Diary Dates.

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A parade of ex-racehorses organised by RoR and Arena Racecourses took place at Lingfield Racecourse at their Winter Derby Meeting on Saturday 15th March. Various equine disciplines were represented in the Parade including polo, showing, eventing and showjumping.

The RoR also had a Stand at Lingfield, to answer any queries first-hand.

A parade at Newmarket Racecourse will take place on 16th August, and a parade will also take place at Doncaster Racecourse later in the year.

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To help owners look after and train their ex-racehorses RoR run an education programme. This programme includes clinics nationwide, with the next one due to take place on 23rd April at the ILPH Centre, Snetterton, Norfolk.

Run with Baileys Horse Feeds the clinic is entitled, 'Retraining the ex-racehorse, where to start and how to proceed'. Click here for more information.

Later this year in the summer, a residential course in Newmarket is planned. Keep checking the Welfare & Development section of this website for more information.

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Following the first Retrained Racehorse Event Championship held at Barbury Castle last year the event is sent to continue in 2008. Sponsored by the RoR and the National Trainers Federation (NTF) it will be held on 4th to 6th July 2008 at Barbury Castle, near Marlborough.

This Series is open to all, and is at Open Intermediate Level. Horses must be registered with RoR to compete in this Series. Click here for more information

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There will be more RoR prizes for ex-racehorses than ever at selected Polo Clubs across the country this year. Keep looking at the Polo Series page for more information.

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Take a peek at a clip of the new RoR video in About Us . It aims to promote the benefits of having an ex-racehorse and features well known racing and sport horse riders.

The full length version will be taken around the country to show at the races, sales, equestrian competitions, and used during presentations.

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Clinic - 3rd February, Stanley Grange Stud, Middlesbrough

Blizzard conditions and high winds meant that the planned RoR Showing Clinic with Allistair Hood at Stanley Grange Stud, Middlesbrough could not go ahead on Friday 1st February. However, thanks to the generosity of stud owner Jerome Harforth and Allistair it was hastily rearranged for the Sunday afternoon and four ex-racehorses thoroughly enjoyed their hour's tuition.

Allistair, a leading rider/trainer of show horses from Suffolk, has had numerous Hack/Riding Horse Champions at HOYS. The Clinic began by allowing the horses to warm up and then he gave advice to each rider on how to improve their overall outline and performance followed by each horse doing an individual show as they would in the RoR showing series. All riders questions were answered and the Showing Clinic was a great success.

Participants included: Liz Kettle, Dianne Drysdale, Vicky Smart, Dierdre Johnston.

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The National Trainers Federation (NTF) will support RoR as it’s main charity from 2008. The NTF newsletter is to feature Success Stories and help promote RoR and the work that it does.

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The RoR welcomed a new Chairman in October 2007, Peter Deal, a racehorse owner of more than 30 years and former Chairman of Sandown Race Committee. He takes over from Brigadier Andrew Parker Bowles OBE, who was the first Chairman of RoR and largely responsible for setting up the charity in 2000.

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Following a successful clinic at Oatridge College, Edinburgh, RoR would like some feedback as to how to proceed with these clinics in the future. Please give us your feedback:

Would you like more presentations?

Would you like less presentations?

Would you prefer more discussion/workshops?

Would you like more practical demonstrations in an indoor school?

Would you like more lessons with "Guinea Pigs" as given by Ian Stark in Edinburgh recently?

Please copy and past the above text into an email and send your answers to:

darbuthnot@ror.org.uk

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The RoR Endurance Championship 2006 Awards were made at a celebration dinner to:


1.   Malthouse Maiden Ray, Mrs Karen Whittington with 281.5 points
2.   April's Comait , Ms Valerie Cammock with 267.4 points
3.   Rostreamer, Mrs Linda Burrows with 244.3 points
4.   Scorching Gunner, Mrs Carolyn Pacey with 230.8 points
5.   Martin, Mr Neil Pickering with 225.0 points
6.   Tyrolean Dancer, Mrs Linda Clarke with 211.4
7.   Dan De Man, Miss Anne Parkinson with 201.5 points
8.   Darling Dora, Mrs Mary Rimell with 134.1 points
9.   Water Lilly, Miss Emma MacFadyen with 119.3 points
10.  Jean Pierre, Mrs Alyson Retter with 98.6 points
11.  Obee Good, Mrs Carolyn Price with 80.1 points 
12.  Moonlight Striker, Mrs Lisa Franks with 57.6 points
13.  Scartho Top, Mrs Caroline Noble with 48.8 points
14.  Mystery Aristocrat, Mrs Sharon Petruv with 35.7 points

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The winners of the 2006 Trailbrazers Championships at Stoneleigh Park in August were:

Junior Preliminary Championship

Katie Harrison riding Draza - Thursday section 1- 65%, Friday consolation B - 60.45% 6th=

Hannah Humphries riding Distinctly Midnight - Thursday section 1- 68.18% 5th=, Friday Final - 55%

Carly Thomas riding Griffen - Thursday section 1- 64.55%, Friday consolation B - 57.27% 10th


Junior Novice Championship
Katie Harrison riding Draza - Thursday section 1 65.19%, Friday Consolation - 64.44% 6th


Senior Preliminary Championship
Kerry Bradshaw riding Pedro - Thursday Section 3 - 65.2% 5th, Friday Final - 70.45% 8th=

Beth Hutchinson riding Sheerness Essity - Thursday Section 3 - 64%, Friday Consolation B - 66.82% 10th

Kelly Moss riding On the Dot - Thursday section 3 - 60.8%, Friday Consolation A - 61.36%


Senior Novice Championship
Christina Claxton riding Moledge - Thursday section 1 - 65.2%, Friday Consolation B - 69.63% 4th


Senior Elementary Championship
Christina Claxton riding Moledge - Thursday section 1 68.75% 7th, Friday Final - 58.4%


Senior Starter Stakes
Carol Cook riding Budding Annie - Saturday 7th place


Senior 75cms Championship
Carol Cook riding Budding Annie - Saturday 36th place, Sunday retired.


Senior Midway Stakes
Peter Irving and Lightening - Saturday 10th place


Senior 95cms Championships
Peter Irving and Lightening - Saturday 2nd place, Sunday 15th place


Senior 105cm Championship
Peter Irving and Lightening - Saturday 30th place, Sunday - eliminated

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Mrs Chris Holdsworth’s Show No Mercy aged 27, and his rider Laura Purves aged fifteen, have qualified, at Bowes Agricultural Show on Saturday 9th September, for ‘The Veteran Horse Society and Blue Chip Showing Championship’ to be held at Olympia, London in December 2006.

‘Show No Mercy’ is a registered thoroughbred ex-racehorse who was trained and raced as a youngster, and has excelled in his second career, veteran showing. He receives a programme of toning, physiotherapy and massage to keep him supple.

The ‘team’ including Laura’s mum Stephanie and Chris’s daughter, Sofia, with another show horse ‘Betty Boo’ live in Whitby and are absolutely thrilled. 

There were a few tears of joy on the day, Laura's coach, Mrs Lesley Haw from Lingdale, was like a possessed disco dancer!’, said Chris.

It is ‘third time lucky’ for the partnership, missing out by one point in the last two annual competitions.

‘It is hard to qualify, as you have to win the class at the local qualifier, win the class at the regional qualifier and then be judged 'Champion’, but we did it!’ said Laura.

They are really all looking forward to competing at Olympia and many friends and family have already bought tickets to support them.'

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At the Horse of the Year Show in Birmingham Jane Webber concluded a fantastic season with Luke Sharpe, a thoroughbred horse which came from the Doncaster Bloodstock Sales, taking the honours of Lightweight Hunter of the year and the prestigious Reserve Champion Hunter Title.

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The High goal winner for 2006 presented at Cartier International was Alias, a Australian bred mare who ran three times at two and three years in Melbourne under the name of Miss Prisca.

Cowdray Pony Club Polo winner was Silent Rose ridden by Rory Horne who plays for the Tiverton Gannon team. Rosie is a 13yo Brown mare who ran for trainer Mark Pitman once in a bumper where she beat one home and then she fell in her only run in a hurdle race. An unsuccessful racehorse but a very successful and much loved polo pony!

The winners of the RoR series presented at the HPA dinner were:

Taz won the high goal award played and owned by George Meyrick. His racing name when trained by Johnny Portman was Tassili and was well beaten on the flat and in two races over hurdles.

Caprice won the medium goal award owned and played by Memo and Julio Gracida. She was bought out of training by David Morley who produced and sold her to the Gracidas. She was called Attractive Girl when trained by John Spearing.

The runner up was Gigha owned and trained by Adrian Wade.

The most deserving award was won by Bramberry who as Bebe Pomme was an unsuccessful racehorse when trained by Mrs Norma Macauley before being sold at Ascot Sales. She was bought by Jonny Wade and then sold on to Milly Scott, a leading lady polo player.

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This weekend at Badminton, horses who were on racing's scrapheap had a chance to prove themselves at the pinnnacle of another sport, three-day eventing.

Moon Fleet owned by Mrs Magnier completed a memorable weekend for the Magnier family by winning Badminton on Sunday, following their win with George Washington in the 2000 Guineas on the Saturday.

Ridden by Andrew Hoy, Moon Fleet, formerly called Empty Wagon by Strong Gale out of Blue Suede Shoes, ran in two point-to-points before turning to Eventing. At 15, he has rewarded his owner's patience by taking Eventing's own Classic.  

Another former racehorse, Ensign, after a good dressage test unfortunately fell on the cross country course. He is none the worse for his fall and will be out again soon.

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Riders from the Midlands Horseball Teams on their ex-racehorses joined together to form the first Horseball team to wear the Retraining of Racehorses' charity strip, wearing the distinctive green and cream of the RoR.

The team played to a backdrop of the lovely Belton House against other Midlands riders playing in the Nottingham Reds strip. RoR fielded 4 British International Team members so managed an unsurprising win by 3 clear goals.

Retraining of Racehorses team:

1. David Worthington riding K-ase-the joint ( Nottingham)

2. Mat Worthington riding the colt - Blue Track (Nottingham)

3. Zoe Kerry riding Hopeful Mission (Nottingham)

4. Sarah Whitby riding Murphy. (2 Shires)

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After success at the RDA regional Champinships at Hickstead in June, the Aldbourne Riding for the Disabled Group made it to the National Championship at Hartpury College.

The group which is based at Aldbourne Equestrian Centre, where it meets every Tuesday morning, has been consistently represented in the national championships every year since it was formed.

The riders have achieved a significant number of wins and placings in the nationals and are constantly aiming for success.

Willem (Rectillon) previously in training with Barry Hills and Richard Rowe was riden by Laura Higgs. Although severely handicapped, Laura gets on very well with Willem as she has a very light contact on his mouth. He is very well behaved and has lovely extravagant paces but is also a very comfortable armchair ride. He adores Laura (she is very lightweight) and she adores him!!

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Ginger Spice is way out in front to win the RoR Endurance Prize which will be awarded at Endurance GB's dinner on 26th November 2005.

Ginger Spice is a home bred Chestnut mare 8 years old by Norton Challenger and Othersal Dawn Chorus. At five years she did a few pleasure and fun rides. At six years she did two novice rides, both Grade I plus; pleasure and fun rides. At seven years, she upgraded to Intermediate competing in rides up to 65 kms. Most of which were Grade I finishing the season by coming 3rd in the Boston Bay Cup.

This year, she has done mostly 65km rides and her next ride will be her first 80 km. graded. If this goes well, she will go to Cumbria for her first race ride at 80 km.

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Pippa Funnell rode Blue Horizon to win the Windsor Horse Trials 2005.  Blue Horizon a former race horse under the name of Crossapol Bay, ran in a bumper at Haydock when trained by Lucy Wadham. He has now made a successful transition from racehorse to eventer.

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Ex-hurdler, Five Boys and Kitty Boggis are due to compete at Badminton Horse Trials.  Kitty Boggis's great ambition was to compete at Badminton and at 21 years old she is making her debut there this year. She is reigning national under 25 champion and is due to partner her former hurdler, Five Boys who has not yet finished out of the top 11 in an international event. They have won at one and two star level, collecting young rider gold and silver team medals and finished second at Bramham.

'I know him so well I would not want to be on any other horse', Kitty says

We all wish her well

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RoR with SEIB gave prizes at The Sport Horse Dinner in London in January 2005. There were six categories, dressage, eventing, showing, show jumping, endurance and unaffiliated category. These awards are given to create recognition of how successful ex racehorses can be in all types and levels of competition.

Dressage Award: Leap in the Dark owned and ridden by Anne Parkinson. Leap in the Dark was bred in Ireland and trained by John Dunlop as a two year old and then went on to win three hurdle races when trained by Lynn Siddall. He has won 12 Novice Tests, 3 Elementary and many placings in both. 

Eventing: Willa Thyne, homebred by owner Mrs Scott Watson, went into training at four and was placed in three Bumpers. She then ran over hurdles for a number of seasons but did not train on and went on to Point to Point and hunting. “Then I decided to take her on into Horse Trials and she took to it really well,” says Mrs Scott Watson. “She is a quick learner, especially at jumping, and even if she stopped once at a new fence she always jumps it the second time and never stops again.”

Milliemetre owned by Julie Farrell and Hilary Curtis, ridden by Emily Curtis has gone from success to success in 2004. She qualified and competed at The Royal International Horse Show, did well at the National Hack championships, won the udner 25s at Iver and the Associated Hack Class at the BSPS Winter Championships.


Award for Showjumping: Swift Alliance owned and ridden by Jonathan Martin.   Swift Alliance raced as a two year old and won one race at Folkestone at three. Starting in riding club competitions he won his first and only dressage test with 75 per cent. He then went on to show jumping and was a member of the winning Riding Club team at the Royal International Show Horse Show.


Endurance: Rostreamer owned and ridden by Linda Burrows. Winning this award at 21!! He first raced at 4 winning three and being placed in the first six in 20 of his 33 starts. Mrs Burrows bought him in 1996 and he has completed 2,000 competition miles!!!


Unaffiliated Competition: Papatuu owned and ridden by Rebecca Wright. Paptuu was bred in New Zealand and raced four times, tiwce on the flat and twice over hurdles, with one fourth place to his credit. He then has ayear missing from his records before surfacing at Doncaster sales. He had one further owner before being brought by Miss Wright. Winning this unaffiliated award for the second year, Pappatu has competed in all the disciplines. In 2004 he won the Winter show jumping cup at Coombe Park Equestrian Centre and is a regular member of riding club teams. 

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The Thoroughbred and Retired Racehorse Association (TARRA) was established by ex-flat jockey, Peter Gunn who is now a livery yard owner and whipper in for the Thurlow Hounds.

He shows horses as well as judging at shows, and in 2000, while judging a hunter class he noticed a few thoroughbreds who although nice, were not quite the right type. He spoke to their owners and decided to set up classes for thoroughbreds at a few shows.

TARRA ran classes in 2002 and again in 2003 with great success and support.

RoR have helped Peter by supplying prizes for the classes and will again be supporting him in 2004.

Below is a copy of an email received from Moorgreen Show organiser, Chris Graham

'As Secretary for the Light Horse Section of the two day show at Moorgreen, I was approached by Mr Peter Gunn of TARRA, to put on some classes for retired racehorses. I did not hesitate and it was decided to run four classes. We had forty three entries in those classes, which attracted spectators, who cheered, clapped and roared for those horses. Peter Gunn was absolutely the perfect man for the job, he captivated the crowd with his enthusiasm. He gave a commentary, he rode them all with such ease and confidence……..you must encourage him to promote TARRA in every way you can. People were falling off their straw bails, exhibitors were in tears………I have never known such strong feelings for just a few classes! The rosettes and sashes provided by RoR were superb'.

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RoR is a member of The National Equine Welfare Council which represents about 60 equine welfare charities and equine based organisations having equine welfare as a main aim.

It produces a Code of Practice for those organisations involved in the keeping of horses, ponies, asses, mules & donkeys and supports members by providing up to date information, running annual seminars and representing them to Government and other bodies.

Member organisations involved in the keeping of equines can be relied upon to achieve excellent standards of care for their animals. Many operate loan schemes whereby horses and ponies go out on loan to inspected homes whilst remaining the property of the charity and being protected for the rest of their lives.

Visit the NEWC at: www.newc.co.uk

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The Disney film Seabiscuit launched on 27th October, and RoR was chosen, along with the Injured Jockeys Fund and Racing Welfare, to benefit from the charity premiere that takes place in London that night.

Based on the best-selling book of the same name by Laura Hillenbrand, Seabiscuit is the true story of an American racehorse whose racing days looked finished until he met up with a trainer, jockey and owner prepared to give him a second chance. The story of Seabiscuit is an amazing account of how a horse and his connections overcome adversity to achieve great success on the racecourse.

At one point in the film the trainer, Tom Smith, says “Every horse is good for something.” This rings a definite chord with RoR, which is all about helping horses to move on to a different kind of success once their racing careers are over. RoR is thrilled to be involved with the British launch of the film and excited at the opportunity to get our message across to the wider general public.

For more details please on the movie please visit: www.seabiscuitmovie.com

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Okaku was bought by his owner, Clementina Mirylees in 1992 from Ascot Sales. He was originally trained by Mrs Lester Piggott before going to Martin Pipe. Okaku was first trained to go Eventing and competed in about five BHS Novice one day events before a job change of the owners’ meant they concentrated on Show Jumping and Dressage.

In BSJA competitions he won and was placed in British Novice and Newcomers, but now they just concentrate on affiliated Dressage. Last year they competed at Prix St George level, with numerous wins and places at all levels including Advanced.

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Lovely Twist is a Weatherbys registered bay gelding by Entanglement out of So Beautiful. He was bred in Somerset by Mr Sydney Hodinutt who has bred over a hundred winners and is now in his eighties. Twist was a successful racehorse, winning over hurdles and fences, his most significant victory being over Grand National winner Aldaniti at Bangor on Dee.

Twist’s racing opportunities became more limited and he was sold at Doncaster Sales in 1982 for £1500. His ‘value’ had depreciated but he still cost more than his owner, Gill Craven paid for her car in the same year. He continued life as a point-to-pointer and a hunter with the Cheshires. Once again he was a winner.

Since his ‘retirement’ Twist has been placed in activities as diverse as Cross Country, Handy Horse, Dressage, Equitation and Working Hunter. He also enjoys gymkhana games and Veteran Showing classes, achieving the pinnacle of his career by winning the V.H.S. National Achievement award and coming fourth in the Ridden Veteran Class.

Twist is a wonderful horse to hack, safe on the roads alone or in company, and at the age of 24 years he can clock 31mph when clocked by the owner’s husband on a motorbike up the road parallel to the track where he was galloping.

Twist is a valued family member;’ an everyday horse’ in every sense of the word.

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The Trustees of Paul Mellon's estate have generously made $3.5m available to Racing's charity, Rehabilitation of Racehorses (RoR).

Brigadier Andrew Parker Bowles, Chairman of RoR, explained:

"Some months ago the Mellon Trust, which is already very involved in funding for ex-racehorses in America, expressed interest in what was being done in the same field here in Britain. I had a chance to explain our activities and take one of their Trustees to visit one of the centres that RoR supports. He was clearly impressed and keen to help and the result is this wonderful donation.

"This money will create a capital fund and underpin Racing's responsibility for the welfare of ex- racehorses. While the RoR Trustees are very grateful for the contributions already being made by the Racing, Breeding and Betting Industries, I would stress that this new money will not replace their input. Everyone who derives enjoyment or their living trom Racing has a continuing responsibility for the horses once their racing careers are over.

"The RoR Trustees will be meeting in January to decide how best to use the funds in accordance with RoR's objectives. Nothing has been decided yet, but this donation gives us the opportunity to look at a number of options."

Emma Balding, one of the RoR Trustees, said:

"Paul Mellon loved his racing in this country and he was in the fortunate position of being able to look after his own horses once they had stopped racing. It's marvellous to think that, through this legacy, his caring philosophy lives on in a very practical way, enabling other horses to be cared for."

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Brigadier Andrew Parker Bowles today launched Racing's new initiative to provide financial help to support the re-schooling and re-homing of former racehorses in need.

Brigadier Parker Bowles said:

"Around 4,000 horses leave Racing each year. In the vast majority of cases, owners, breeders and trainers take a great deal of care in finding suitable new homes for their horses. This is right and proper, but, unfortunately, even the best-laid plans sometimes go wrong. The number of sound horses seeking refuge at one or other of the racehorse rehabilitation centres is proof of that.

"Racing has come together to contribute towards a central fund which will be used to support approved charitable establishments in their work re-schooling and re-homing former racehorses. Racing has accepted that we owe a collective debt of honour to all the horses that have provided so many of us with our livelihoods, given so much pleasure and, on occasion, rewarded us with profit.

"The new organisation, Rehabilitation of Racehorses, is in the process of being set up and we hope to start distributing funds in the Autumn."

"This is an important initiative for Racing. I want to thank everyone who has helped with the development and everyone who will be contributing."

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