Racing Queensland has welcomed the move to officially recognise thoroughbreds competing in equestrian events at the 2024 Paris Olympics on starting lists and results for the first time.
This includes any of the equestrian disciplines - dressage, show jumping and eventing.
In past Olympics, the retired thoroughbred racehorses competing were listed only as ‘breeding unknown’.
The agreement follows discussions between the European and Mediterranean Horseracing Federation (EMHF), the World Breeding Federation for Sports Horses (WBFSH), the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) and the International Stud Book Committee (ISBC).
It will also extend to all FEI competitions.
The issue arose due to a Memorandum of Understanding between the FEI and the WBFSH that only member stud books of the WBFSH have historically been credited, and the WBFSH only has members that specifically breed horses for the Olympic disciplines.
The arrangement was welcomed by Secretary-General of the EMHF Dr Paull Khan, who is also a member of the Steering Group of the International Forum for the Aftercare of Racehorses (IFAR).
“Much effort is made around the world to encourage the owners of retired racehorses to explore second careers for them,” Dr Khan said.
“This recognition will both further the message that thoroughbreds do go on to compete with distinction in other equestrian disciples and prompt more thoroughbred owners to consider this retirement option for their racehorses”.
General Manager of the WBFSH Nadine Brandtner also supported the move.
“The WBFSH recognises the extensive influence the thoroughbred has had on sport horse breeding and development, and that undoubtedly the thoroughbred deserves recognition,” Brandtner said.
“Furthermore, the initiative to encourage second careers for retired thoroughbreds is a vital effort to maintain the social license to operate.
“We believe that it is the entire equine sector that must stand together to face this challenge, and so it is natural that the WBFSH would support this”.
The FEI’s Director of Governance and Institutional Affairs Francisco Lima confirmed that this development carries the full support of the FEI.
Vice-Chair of the ISBC Simon Cooper said the International Stud Book Committee is delighted that thoroughbreds will now be recognised for their participation and success in equestrian sports.
“The ISBC is grateful to EMHF, WBFSH and the FEI for working together alongside the ISBC to support this recognition of off-the-track racehorses,” Cooper said.
“Thoroughbreds have consistently shown that their athleticism, attitude, and adaptability so often make for a successful second career in equestrian sports.
“The ISBC’s 68 Approved Thoroughbred Stud Books across the world will be supporting IFAR, WBFSH and the FEI in promoting post-racing opportunities and ensuring recognition for these thoroughbreds.”