RoR and BHA launch data-sharing agreement

Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) have launched a new data-sharing agreement to support real-time traceability of racehorses once they leave racing.

The agreement, which went live on 22 July 2025, enables RoR to contact owners once a non-racing agreement is signed on the BHA’s database, and the data is passed to RoR. Owners are then invited by RoR to complete a short survey to confirm the horse’s current status, outline future plans, and, where applicable, register the horse with RoR.

The survey takes less than five minutes and allows RoR to gather essential data on the horse’s whereabouts and next steps, while offering owners access to free support and resources including retraining advice, educational content, and an opportunity to participate in a range of activities, competitions and events.

This joint initiative was commissioned by the Horse Welfare Board (HWB) as a key enabler of the progress being made within its traceability project. Alongside completing key actions outlined in the RoR Strategy 2024-2026, the results from the process above will be analysed, with the findings informing the future direction of this area of the HWB’s traceability work.

Importantly, the HWB has been a central driver in getting this agreement together and securing associated funding from The Racing Foundation. The agreement forms part of the HWB’s wider ambition to close gaps in traceability and will serve as a key enabler in building a more complete understanding of thoroughbreds’ lives once they leave racing.

David Catlow, Managing Director of RoR, said: "The moment a horse retires is a crucial transition point, and this agreement ensures we can connect with the new keeper without delay. It enables us to build a fuller picture of life after racing, promote responsible ownership, and offer early access to the support RoR provides. Together with the BHA, this marks an important step forward in strengthening the traceability framework for retired racehorses.

“In the first five weeks since launch,18.45% of owners contacted have completed the survey, providing valuable insight and helping shape future support for former racehorses. This represents a strong initial response, and we are encouraged by the level of engagement so far.”

James Given, Director of Equine Regulation, Safety and Welfare at the British Horseracing Authority said: “This agreement represents a practical and proactive step towards strengthening post-racing outcomes for thoroughbreds. By enabling RoR to engage directly with owners at the point of retirement, we’re helping to bridge a long-standing data gap and support more informed, evidence-based welfare decisions. It reflects the BHA, RoR and Horse Welfare Board’s commitment to delivering meaningful progress through collaboration, and to ensuring every horse is given the best chance of a healthy and supported life beyond the track.”

Helena Flynn, Programme Director at the Horse Welfare Board said: “The ambition remains to achieve 100% traceability at the point horses step out of racing – a goal that the HWB and its partners continue to champion. While this data-sharing agreement does not provide all the answers, it is a critical building block in a long-term solution that will evolve over time. Coupled with the wider work being done across traceability, it brings the industry closer to understanding the varied journeys of racehorses once they retire from racing and ensuring they receive appropriate support throughout.”

This collaborative effort underscores the shared responsibility across the racing industry to monitor and support horses beyond their time on the track.