news RoR Horses For Courses gains momentum in 2024

The Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) Horses for Courses programme, supported by Godolphin, has kicked off with excitement this year, through a series of activities and promising developments. As more racecourses adopt an equine ambassador, it promises to be a positive year for the initiative.

We are delighted to announce Chelmsford City as the latest racecourse to sign up to the scheme, with course regular, Jack The Truth, joining as their equine ambassador. Since his retirement from the track, Jack’s second career has seen him taking part in many activities, most notably he has competed in Tattersalls RoR showing series. Jack is a great character and is due to make his ambassadorial debut at Chelmsford’s Good Friday meeting.

Plumpton Racecourse has been at the forefront of recent Horses for Courses activity, with Baron Alco, their ambassador, making a memorable appearance at the Winter Raceday meeting. Additionally, January marked the arrival of Plumpton's second ambassador, De Barley Basket, who visited their retired racehorse stable. Affectionately referred to as Barley, he has been actively engaged in diverse activities and is preparing for a charity ride across the South Downs, culminating at the racecourse. Both Baron Alco and De Barley Basket's blogs can be viewed on Plumpton's website.

Side Glance, Ascot Racecourse's ambassador, has expanded his portfolio to include modelling, as he took centre stage for the Royal Ascot 2024 campaign. Possessing a charming presence and a natural talent for striking poses, Side Glance stole the spotlight during the promotional photoshoot.

Heading north, Musselburgh's ambassador, Nine Altars, graced the Scottish Cheltenham Trials weekend, participating in a parade and engaging in a meet and greet with enthusiastic racegoers. Meanwhile, Robinsfirth paraded around the paddock at Haydock Park's Grand National Trial Raceday, no doubt reminiscing about his significant victory five years ago.

Aintree Racecourses equine ambassador Definitly Red, the two-time champion of the Many Clouds Chase in 2017 and 2018 when trained by Brian Ellison, is flourishing in the show ring, continuing to be a champion on and off the track with Andy Robertson. He is featured in an insightful post on life after racing on The Jockey Club’s social media channels, which sheds light on the transition from the racetrack to a fulfilling post racing life.

Looking ahead, warmer weather is bringing out established ambassadors with planned visits from Duke of Navan at Carlisle, Takingrisks at Hexham, and Magical Memories at Goodwood. Stay tuned for announcements regarding Stratford, Newmarket, Wincanton, Market Rasen, Exeter, Bangor, Sandown Park, and Chester in the coming weeks.

The RoR Horses for Courses ambassadors, both new and old, showcase the diverse experiences former racehorses can enjoy beyond their racing careers, promoting their quality of life. This helps educate the public on the variety of career options available to former racehorses while highlighting the racing industry's commitment to their wellbeing.