Newmarket Racecourses will place the spotlight on life after racing later this month with the launch of “Behind the Bridle”, an initiative designed to give racegoers a closer understanding of the care, retraining and second careers of former Thoroughbreds.
The event will form part of the Spring Meeting at Newmarket Racecourses on Saturday, 16 May, bringing together retrainers, riders, former racehorses and equestrian specialists for a day focused on welfare and education across the sport.
Organised in collaboration with Retraining of Racehorses (RoR), the day aims to show the versatility of Thoroughbreds once their racing careers have ended. Visitors will be able to watch demonstrations, speak with experts and meet former racehorses now competing in a variety of disciplines away from the racecourse.
Displays throughout the afternoon will include dressage, showing, polo and horseball, offering racegoers a broad look at how ex-racehorses adapt to different environments after retirement. Educational exhibits and interactive sessions will also focus on aftercare and retraining practices within British racing.
Among those supporting the initiative is Sophie Able, Newmarket Racecourses and International Director, who said the event reflects the racecourse’s commitment to highlighting the ongoing care provided to horses beyond their time on the track.
She said: “We are delighted to be strengthening our already strong relationship with RoR through the launch of ‘Behind the Bridle’ at the Spring Meeting.
“The care horses receive after retiring from the racetrack, and their retraining for a wide range of new disciplines, is something we are proud to showcase. We hope ‘Behind the Bridle’ will play an important role in helping to highlight the many opportunities available to former racehorses beyond racing.”
Able also thanked RoR and industry partners involved in delivering the event, adding that the meeting promises to provide both an entertaining and informative experience for racegoers attending the fixture.
David Catlow, Managing Director of Retraining of Racehorses, described the initiative as an important opportunity to widen public understanding of racehorse welfare and aftercare.
“Behind the Bridle is a valuable opportunity to bring the story of racehorse aftercare to a wider raceday audience, showing first-hand the care, skill and commitment that supports former racehorses as they move into life beyond the track,” he said.
“Thoroughbreds are intelligent, adaptable and capable horses, and this event will help people see the many different roles they can go on to enjoy, from competitive equestrian disciplines to wider activities and fulfilling everyday lives.”
The Newmarket Spring Meeting has traditionally marked an important stage of the Flat racing season, but this year’s programme is also expected to shine a wider light on the long-term welfare and retraining pathways available to former racehorses.
By combining live demonstrations with direct engagement opportunities, organisers hope “Behind the Bridle” will encourage a deeper appreciation of the work carried out across British racing to support horses throughout their lives.
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