Step forward David Howden, the launch of your new Thoroughbred Aftercare Programme is the latest evolution in the significant investment made into Eventing.
Launched at the Howden Christmas Racing Weekend at Ascot Racecourse its further to the launch of The Howden Way in May 2022, which helps racehorses to live a rewarding life after racing.
In offering training and opportunities to riders of all ages and abilities, TAP has a clear and concise mission to enable more racehorses to live a rewarding life after they retire from racing.
Within a nationwide support framework for those taking on an ex-racehorse, its to ensure a smooth transition from racehorse to riding horse with a new competitive or non-competitive rider.
Funded by David Howden, CEO and Founder of Howden, it features The Howden Way Talent Academy, The Howden Way Young Horse Academy and The Howden Way Thoroughbred Aftercare.
“As someone who is passionate about horse racing, I see it as vital to support the sport in any way I can,” said David Howden who is also Founder and President of Cornbury House Horse Trials.
“By creating a nationwide, freely accessible programme of 2,000 subsidised training sessions a year, I hope we see a pathway to becoming a riding horse that is smooth and stress free as possible.”
The programme will assist riders to understand their horse, progressing to including lunging, hacking, schooling and their ambition to develop through to a discipline specific competition structure.
Some 35,000 former racehorses alone in the UK, and 7,000 horses retiring from British racing each year, the focus is on correct re-training to enable them to become a successful riding horses.
As a result of common misconceptions that people often have about thoroughbreds, TAP will break down these misconceptions through education, giving people the confidence and support.
’We are delighted to see stakeholders coming together to support this vital initiative,” commented Helena Flynn, Programme Director Horse Welfare Board on developing such important work.
“This programme represents a significant step forward in ensuring that ex-racehorse’s transition successfully into fulfilling and rewarding lives with their new owners and riders that’s inspiring.”
In following David Catlow, Managing Director of Retraining of Racehorses, said “Supporting the former racehorses is a vital step in ensuring they transition successfully into second careers.”
“The Thoroughbred Aftercare Programme is a fantastic addition to the landscape and complements RoR’s established initiatives in education, competitions, advice, and community support.”
“This programme highlights David Howden’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of racehorses, and we applaud the significant effort and investment behind its development.”
In addition, the Cornbury House Horse Trials, in conjunction with Jayne McGivern of Dash Grange Stud, have announced a new class with first prize of £45,000, and to run first time in 2025.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Justine Parker. Programme Director. Email: justine.parker@thehowdenway.com
About The Howden Way