Statistical analysis has identified horses that have not had a race start by the time the horse turns 5 years of age, to be at approximately 4.4 times the risk of catastrophic limb injury during racing compared to a horse that has competed in a race prior to the time it turns 5 years of age.
The statistics also identify that where a horse has not raced for 12 months or longer, it is of increased risk of catastrophic limb injury during racing. Because of this the Rules prescribe that for these horsesa satisfactory veterinary clearance must be obtained and the horse must trial satisfactorily. Following a satisfactory trial and upon receiving a satisfactory post-trial veterinary examination report, the Stewards may grant written permission for the horse to be nominated for and participate in a race.
Because of the increased risk of catastrophic limb injury during racing for 5-year-old horses that have not had a race start are required to:
- Provide any information, including any veterinary incidents (including but not limited to respiratory surgery, tendon or ligament injury, stress fractures, fractures, arthroscopy, etc.), as to why the horse has not started in a race
- Provide a satisfactory veterinary clearance
- Trial satisfactorily over the flat
- Provide a satisfactory veterinary clearance post-trial
- Satisfactory report on a full body scintigraphy prior to racing
- Pre-race veterinary inspection oncourse at first start
Please note further diagnostic tests may be indicated depending on the results of the scintigraphy.
If the horse has been retired please advise us and update the Stable Return accordingly as is required by the Rules.
If you have any questions, please contact veterinaryadmin@racingvictoria.net.au.