‘Behind the Bridle’ will deliver an immersive raceday experience at Newmarket’s Spring Meeting (Saturday 16th May), designed to highlight the journey of the Thoroughbred beyond its racing career.
Retraining of Racehorses (RoR), British horseracing’s official charity, has worked closely with Newmarket Racecourses and partners across the industry in supporting the delivery of the day, including contributing to the line-up of former racehorses taking part in the day’s activities.
Racegoers will have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of demonstrations, educational exhibits and interactive experiences, all designed to deepen understanding of racehorse aftercare and retraining.
The day will feature appearances and displays from a variety of equestrian disciplines; from dressage and showing to polo and horseball, alongside opportunities to meet former racehorses and the people who work with them beyond the track.
Matt Perry and Dark Hedges playing for Ojo Caliente. Matt is wearing the red hat. Pic credit The Art of Polo
Horseball - Peveril Point
Sophie Able, Newmarket Racecourses and International Director, said: “We are delighted to be strengthening our already strong relationship with RoR through the launch of ‘Behind the Bridle’ at the Spring Meeting.
“The care horses receive after retiring from the racetrack, and their retraining for a wide range of new disciplines, is something we are proud to showcase. We hope ‘Behind the Bridle’ will play an important role in helping to highlight the many opportunities available to former racehorses beyond racing.”
“Our thanks go to RoR for their support in bringing this event to life, and we look forward to what promises to be both a fun and informative day on Saturday 16th May.”
David Catlow, Managing Director of Retraining of Racehorses, said: “Behind the Bridle is a valuable opportunity to bring the story of racehorse aftercare to a wider raceday audience, showing first-hand the care, skill and commitment that supports former racehorses as they move into life beyond the track.
“Thoroughbreds are intelligent, adaptable and capable horses, and this event will help people see the many different roles they can go on to enjoy, from competitive equestrian disciplines to wider activities and fulfilling everyday lives.
“RoR is pleased to be supporting Newmarket Racecourse in delivering a day that celebrates these horses, while also helping to build greater understanding of the collective responsibility we all share for their lifelong welfare.”
Behind The Bridle has been generously sponsored by Price Bailey, with valuable support across the weekend from the British Horseball Association, the Hurlingham Polo Association, The National Stud, Godolphin, British Racing School, Equi-Ed, The Howden Way and Tattersalls.
