Yes, as an owner you have a responsibility to make sure you know about your obligations under the Rules of Racing when it comes to your horse’s whereabouts and status.
This is important, especially when your racehorse retires and makes its first transition out of the racing industry – as in most cases they will continue to enjoy another career for up to three times that of their time as a racehorse.
So what should I know:
1. In 2021 Racing Australia introduced national rules to improve the traceability of thoroughbreds – this covers before, during and after racing. Learn more here
2. If your horse is not under the direct care of a licensed trainer, you must ensure that the horse’s status and location information is correct with Racing Australia at all times.
3. If your horse retires from racing, you must ensure that a retirement notification is submitted with Racing Australia within seven days.
4. If your horse has retired from racing you can register and claim it on the Off The Track Community , or have the new post-racing owner claim the horse to help improve Racing Victoria’s visibility of retired racehorses.
5. You can check and update horse status and location information on the My Horse Racing Portal , or by contacting Racing Australia on 1800 870 799.
I only own a very small percentage of the horse… how can it be my responsibility?
You might not be the one having to make the decision or determine what the best options are for the horse, but it’s important you know what the rules are and the obligations of those managing your horse.
It also means when buying into a horse you know what the expectations are of those involved in the ownership or syndicate group.
In most cases, the responsibility will sit with the managing owner or syndicate, but it’s good to be clear on who is making these decisions early in the horse’s career.
What other traceability rules should I be aware of?
It’s important that in the circumstance when a horse dies, it is reported (including the circumstances, if known) promptly to Racing Victoria. This relates to:
• AR 292 Death of unnamed horse
• AR 299 Death of named horse
Given the circumstances, the reporting to Racing Victoria may be completed by the trainer via stable return after notification to the managing owner or syndicate group.
You can find out more about these rules and requirements, by clicking here
Who can help with my horse or if I need more information?
If you have any questions about thoroughbred traceability or what is required as an owner, you can contact Racing Victoria’s equine welfare team at equinewelfare@racingvictoria.net.au or 03 9258 4258.
If your horse has retired from racing and you are unable to find a suitable home for their post-racing career, you can find a suitable pathway and support via the Off The Track Community