Recognising the work of rehomers
Unlike Acknowledged Retrainers – who assess and retrain OTT thoroughbreds before rehoming – Acknowledged Rehomers are not required to perform ridden assessments or retraining. They will, however, be expected to meet minimum program standards, including evaluating prospective owners’ horse experience, retraining capabilities, and the suitability of their facilities.
Acknowledged Rehomers will enjoy a range of benefits similar to those available to Acknowledged Retrainers, including exclusive learning opportunities, promotional support through RV’s industry channels, and invitations to special events such as race days and equestrian showcases. Additionally, they will gain access to Off The Track merchandise and signage, further reinforcing their status within the equestrian community.
Case Study: Jen Duffy
Few embody the spirit of rehoming better than Jen Duffy, an experienced retrainer and rehomer who has spent two decades in the racing industry. Based in Victoria, Jen’s passion for thoroughbreds extends beyond her early morning trackwork rides to her dedicated work finding suitable homes for ex-racehorses.
“I either take them off the track for retraining and sell them on, or I rehome them directly out of racing,” Jen explains. With her extensive background in eventing and show jumping, combined with strong connections within the industry, she plays a crucial role in matching horses with suitable owners.
Rehoming a horse is a process that requires careful consideration. “I visit the stables, take photos and videos, measure them, check for soundness issues, and speak to trackwork riders about their temperament,” she says. “From there, I use my network to find them the right home, often through word of mouth.”
Demand for retired racehorses has increased in recent years, particularly with the growing popularity of thoroughbreds in eventing and pleasure riding. Jen notes that she rehomes two to three horses a week, a testament to the industry’s efforts in promoting life beyond racing.
One of her most cherished success stories is her own horse, Grand Amour, whom she rode in trackwork from the day he entered training. “He had a significant injury coming out of racing, but I rehabbed him, and he went on to top-level eventing,” she recalls. “It’s so rewarding to see them thrive in new careers.”
A growing network of support
The Acknowledged Rehomer Program is just one pillar of RV’s extensive post-racing framework, which also includes the Acknowledged Retrainer Program, RESET and PRESET retraining programs, the Retired Thoroughbred Companion Program, and Full Circle (Emergency Contact) Program, among others. These initiatives reflect RV’s holistic approach to equine welfare, ensuring that every thoroughbred has the opportunity for a purposeful life beyond the racetrack.
Ware emphasised the significance of the new initiative, stating, “The Acknowledged Rehomer Program aims to elevate RV’s visibility of retired racehorses being rehomed directly to new owners, resulting in greater overall awareness of their movement. This provides an incentive for each retired racehorse reported to RV via the Off The Track Community while recognising the critical work done by rehomers in supporting Victorian racing’s efforts to place retired racehorses into successful post-racing roles.”
With this latest initiative, Racing Victoria continues to lead the way in equine welfare, ensuring that every thoroughbred – not just the champions – receives the recognition and support they deserve.
