Racing to glory

RoR classes have seen a huge rise in popularity, but where was the idea of showing racehorses born and how have classes changed to meet demand?  

- Margaret Shaw

IT is encouraging to note that there is a rising number of former racehorses shining in showing classes, following their retirement from the track.

Not only do these thoroughbreds compete in dedicated RoR (Retraining of Racehorses) or SEIB racehorse to riding horse qualifiers, but they are also shining in hunter, hack and riding horse divisions.

RoR remains proactive in promoting former racehorses, and recent statistics have revealed that 60% of its membership take part in showing. The organisation hosts six prestigious finals throughout the season, culminating in the national championships at Aintree in August.

“RoR is a fantastic charity and nothing makes us prouder than seeing so many happy horses competing with us in their second career,” says Carly Sage, Aintree International Equestrian Centre manager. 

Several producers have been successful in producing former racehorses and amateurs are “clicking” with them, too.

COMING from a racing background, Katie Jerram- Hunnable was one producer who gained early successes with horses retired from racing. Among the most prolific were horses owned and sometimes bred by The late Queen.

Who can forget the cheers when The Queen’s home-bred former chaser Barbers Shop took the 2017 supreme ridden title at Royal Windsor, and again following another royal title when First Receiver triumphed in the SEIB racehorse to riding horse championship at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) last October?

The Essex-based producer had previously won this title with Night Prayers back in 2011, and this latest victory provided a first win for King Charles III.

“I would like to think we all see the long game with former racehorses. While some may adapt to a different routine quickly, others take time,” says Katie.