“We are thrilled to once again be a part of the Asian Racing Conference,” said International Aftercare of Racehorses Chair Di Arbuthnot with their conference on Tuesday 27 August.
“The aftercare of racehorses remains an important issue on a global scale, and being able to meet in person to share experiences, best practices, and success stories is a vital part of the IFAR.”
Now the 8th International Forum for the Aftercare of Racehorses its again held in conjunction with the 40th Asian Racing Conference on 27 August – 1 September 2024, in Sapporo Japan.
“The ARF is looking forward to the IFAR Conference, and we are excited that it will once again be a part of the Asian Racing Conference,” said Andrew Harding, the ARC General Secretary.
“This has taken place during the ARC on three previous occasions, and each time the importance and value of such a forum has been clear with the safety and welfare of our equine athletes.”
“Both during and after their racing careers is essential, and it will facilitate an aftercare facility visit as well as host a variety of panels with speakers from around the world.”
In addition, the IFAR conference will also be receiving assistance from the JRA, which has entered into a multi-year sponsorship agreement to support the activities of the organisation.
Previously the IFAR conducted forums in conjunction with the 39th ARC in Melbourne in February 2023, the 38th ARC in Cape Town in February 2020; and the 37th ARC in Seoul in May 2018.
Also, the European & Mediterranean Horseracing Federation’s General Assembly in Oslo in May 2019, the Pan American Conference in Washington in May 2017 and Virtual in 2021 and 2022.
“It is a great honour to be able to hold the eighth IFAR in Japan,” said Atsushi Kikuta, JRA Director of Equine Affairs and Japanese Consultative Committee member on Aftercare of Racehorses.
“I’m grateful for this opportunity to exchange thoughts with everyone on issues facing countries around the world and introduce the efforts and status of retired racehorses in Japan.”
The IFAR is an independent forum that recognizes geographical and industry differences among racing countries and is designed to enhance the Thoroughbred Aftercare worldwide.
Working with the IFHA, the IFAR will raise awareness of the importance of welfare for Thoroughbreds, improve education on lifetime care, and help increase demand for former racehorses in other equestrian sports.
In the theme of ‘Be Connected, Stride Together’ it was Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, the ARF Chairman who welcomes delegates and guests to this 40th Conference, the place of its birth, in Japan.
“Located on Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido, Sapporo provides a gateway to the heart of the Japanese thoroughbred industry, with Hokkaido being home to over 700 breeding farms.”
“Accounting for over 90% of the nationwide total, Japan has developed into one of the leading nations in breeding, with Japanese runners climbing to new heights around the world.”
“This year is significant for the Japan Racing Association in celebrating its 70th anniversary, and since founding the JRA’s achievements on the global stage have gone from strength to strength.”
“From breeding to racing, Japan’s prowess is truly remarkable, as evidenced by Equinox being named the 2023 Longines World’s Best Racehorse and the Japan Cup being named the 2023 Longines World’s Best Horse Race.”
