Last week, the 40th Asian Racing Conference took place in Sapporo, Japan. While this event might seem distant for horse owners in Continental America or Europe, it highlights the global nature of today’s racing industry. Many owners and trainers now participate on a worldwide stage. Even as a modest owner and breeder with horses in the U.S., Ireland, England, and France, and fractional ownership in Australia, the daily routine remains consistent: reading the Thoroughbred Daily News and listening to the Nick Luck Daily Podcast to stay informed about industry developments. Often, news from abroad reaches us through informal channels before it hits mainstream media.
The Thoroughbred industry is uniquely interconnected, enabling the effective management of information, marketing, and promotion. However, this interconnectedness remains underutilised. The industry is too fragmented, with a focus on individual interests rather than collective progress.
Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, chairman of the Asian Racing Federation, addressed the industry’s social licence and the challenge of public perception. The International Forum for the Aftercare of Racehorses (IFAR), which held its conference before the Asian Racing Conference, has been instrumental in bringing aftercare issues to the forefront globally.
Despite significant strides over the past 15 years, criticism about the fate of Thoroughbreds post-racing persists. This criticism is not entirely unfounded and must be addressed. IFAR has made commendable efforts, but more comprehensive, long-term solutions are needed beyond the temporary fixes currently in place.
The fragility of racing’s social licence and the shrinking fan base in many countries underscore the need for effective marketing strategies. However, attracting a younger audience is challenging as many lack direct connections to horses, viewing them as irrelevant.
In contrast, the Western world faces a mental health crisis affecting various demographics, from children with ADHD and learning issues to adults dealing with addiction and PTSD. Equine Assisted Services (EAS) has grown significantly over the past 20 years, with many governments funding EAS programs due to their effectiveness compared to traditional therapies. The transformative impact of EAS is one of the best-kept secrets of the 21st century.
Several EAS programs utilise Thoroughbreds, and these horses are particularly well-suited for such work. However, outside the Thoroughbred community, the industry often faces suspicion and distrust. There is an opportunity to enhance our reputation and leadership by showcasing the remarkable work done by retired racehorses in EAS programs worldwide.
Promoting these initiatives could foster a greater public understanding of the bond between horses and humans, potentially dispelling negative perceptions. It’s time to unite and leverage EAS as a means to reconnect the industry with society, rather than continuing to focus on individual achievements.
As a global community, it is essential to act as a unified entity rather than fragmented factions to ensure the future of the industry.