/EINPresswire.com/ The new program that will retrain thoroughbred horses for life after their racing career has been launched in Tasmania.
A new program that will retrain thoroughbred horses for life after their racing career has been launched in Tasmania. The Restart program, established by Wholly Horses and supported by TOTE Tasmania, hopes to build on the success of a similar program in Victoria by introducing retired racehorses into a safe, sociable and non-competitive environment to prepare them for life after racing.
Wholly Horses director and Restart program creator Pru Cotton said an initial target of four ex-racehorses to participate in the 14-week training program had been set.
“Thoroughbreds have been trained by professionals to go fast,” Ms. Cotton said. “Because of this training, most ex-racers are not immediately suitable as recreational riding horses in the equestrian community. “These horses often need time-off in the paddock for three or four weeks for gentle work before they are retrained.” Ms. Cotton said the horses participating in the Restart program would be trained by experienced professionals for a new career in eventing, show jumping, dressage, hacking or pleasure riding. Upon completion of the program, the outplaced horses will be matched with an appropriate rider and a new home.
“Both racehorse owners and prospective new owners are asked to register their interest at Wholly Horses. As Restart is a new program, it is obviously dependent on the availability of suitable horses. We will do our best to move horses from track to their new home as quickly as possible consistent with our values.”
TOTE Tasmania CEO Craig Coleman said the company was pleased to be able to support the launch of the Restart program in the state. “The Restart program is an extremely worthwhile and important initiative that sets out to provide a life for thoroughbred racing horses after their career on the track has finished,” he said. “It is a professional program taking account of animal welfare and safety issues which are obviously important for TOTE Tasmania and the Tasmanian racing
industry.”
Mr. Coleman said The TOTE would use its extensive retail network and all available online communications to promote the program throughout the state. Ms. Cotton said the main priority for Wholly Horses was the health and wellbeing of the horse.
“Thoroughbred racing horses are highly sought after because of their agility and intelligence and are often ideal for recreational riding once their racing career is over,” she said. “But no horse will leave the program until we are confident they are ready to become a safe and trusted companion.”
“It is very rewarding to see a horse go on to a loving home and a useful and happy life.”
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About TOTE Tasmania
TOTE Tasmania Pty Ltd is a leader in the leisure and entertainment industry. Under its retail brand, The TOTE, it markets pari-mutuel or pool based products on thoroughbred, harness and greyhound racing, as well as sport and fixed odds products including Triwin and sports betting to its customers through the BETASPORT brand. This is done via a variety of channels, including the telephone, mobile, internet, on-course and through a network of over 130 hotel and retail outlets throughout Tasmania.
TOTE Tasmania is a registered company, incorporated by the Tasmanian Government. Established in 1999 to replace the former Totalisator Agency Board, until 1 January 2009 the company was responsible for the administration of the Tasmanian racing and breeding industries and the provision of a range of wagering products across racing and sporting events under The TOTE brand.
Operating today solely as a wagering business, the governance and administration powers and functions of TOTE Tasmania have been assumed by Tasracing.
Media Contact:
Marnie O’Dwyer
The Tote
03 6239 4327
http://www.totetasmania.com.au/
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