Retraining of Racehorses strengthens welfare focus
Retraining of Racehorses (RoR), in partnership with Agria, provider of the UK’s only lifetime equine insurance, has today launched a refreshed welfare framework across its competitions and events. This underlines the charity’s commitment to keeping horse welfare at the heart of all its activity.
The new approach introduces updated welfare rules, clearer guidance on raising concerns, and a formalised partnership with the Welfare Stewarding Team – all designed to support responsible ownership and celebrate good horsemanship. The initiative is made possible thanks to generous support from Agria, which has committed to a three-year partnership to help RoR to deliver welfare-first practices across its programmes.
David Catlow, Managing Director of RoR, said: “The welfare of the horse underpins everything we do at RoR. With more ex-racehorses than ever taking part in our competitions and events, it’s essential that their welfare remains paramount. These new rules and resources are designed to support owners in delivering the highest standards of care, while reinforcing a culture of compassion, responsibility and continuous learning.”
Vicki Wentworth, CEO of Agria UK, and herself the owner of an ex-racehorse, added: “Supporting RoR in these objectives could not feel more natural to Agria - finding ways to support horse welfare, and helping horses and riders to enjoy their happiest lives together is very much in our DNA. We commend the new initiatives being launched by RoR and know they will bring widespread benefits.”
The new welfare rules set out clear expectations for all RoR activity, including competitions and mounted events, and are available to download on the RoR website. Printed copies will also be available at major events including The Jockey Club RoR National Championship 19-24 August 2025. Alongside the rules, RoR has developed new guidance to help individuals raise welfare concerns in a constructive and compassionate way.
At the same time, the Welfare Stewarding Team will now have a consistent presence at major RoR competitions, following successful trials in recent months. The team will offer advice, signpost support, and award competitors who demonstrate outstanding care or horsemanship. Stewards will be easily identifiable in co-branded RoR and Agria tabards.
A programme of regular educational content will follow, covering common welfare topics such as horse/rider weight ratio, horse care in extreme temperatures, nutrition, and foot care – all tailored to the specific needs of former racehorses and their owners.
To explore RoR’s new welfare resources, download the rules or find out more about the Welfare Stewarding Team, visit www.ror.org.uk/welfare-at-our-training-and-competitions.