Racing Victoria’s (RV) Off The Track (OTT) program and Equestrian Victoria (EV), the governing body for equestrian sport in Victoria, have announced an extension to the ongoing sponsorship of EV’s 2018-19 affiliated Horse Trials, a series of eventing competitions that encompass Dressage, Show Jumping and Cross Country, and the subsequent support of retired racehorses competing.
In 2018-19, a total of 17 EV Horse Trials across Victoria will be formally recognised and financially supported by the Off The Track program.
Matthew Brown, Equestrian Victoria CEO, thanked RV for their ongoing support and commitment to EV.
“It is with these valued industry supporters that we are able to continue to deliver first class local and regional horse trial events,” Brown said.
RV’s Equine Welfare Coordinator, Lauren Moor, said RV is pleased to continue the partnership with EV and support thoroughbreds in their post-racing careers.
“The extended partnership between RV and EV is a great chance to increase the Off The Track presence at events across the state,” Moor said.
“Off The Track thoroughbreds excel in a range of disciplines due to their speed, stamina and agility and our aim is to drive the demand for the breed as performance and pleasure horses.
“The Off The Track program was created to educate the community about various life after racing options, versatility of use, and the appropriate care and retraining of the thoroughbred, and the partnership with EV allows us to do that to a wider and more varied demographic.”
Amanda Ross and retired Bianconi mare, recently won the CIC3* at this year’s Melbourne International Three Day Event, proving that thoroughbreds can compete with some of the best horses in the state.
At every nominated Horse Trial, the Best Performed OTT thoroughbred will be awarded a prize for its efforts at each level.