Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) has announced a significant update to its eligibility criteria, now enabling all Thoroughbreds bred for racing worldwide and located in Great Britain to register with RoR free of charge. This strategic development aims to improve traceability across the racing industry in Great Britain and ensure that every Thoroughbred bred for racing has access to essential support and educational opportunities.
Updated Eligibility Criteria: Broader Access, Improved Traceability
Previously, RoR registration was limited to horses that had either been in training with a licensed racehorse trainer or had raced under a recognised racing authority, including point-to-pointers. Horses trained or raced outside of Great Britain were assigned “NR” (not raced) numbers, while those that had raced in Great Britain received membership numbers without prefixes.
Under the new criteria, all Thoroughbreds bred for racing—regardless of whether they have entered training—can now register with RoR. A new “NT” (not been in training) category has been introduced to accommodate these horses. To maintain traceability, eligible horses must possess an official racing passport, such as one issued by Weatherbys and registered with the General Stud Book (GSB), or by an equivalent international authority.
The revised eligibility categories are as follows:
David Catlow, Managing Director of RoR, commented:
“RoR’s expanded eligibility underscores our continued commitment to safeguarding the wellbeing of all former racehorses, including Thoroughbreds bred for racing, as outlined in the RoR Strategy 2024–2026. This development ensures they receive the necessary support to lead a well-supported life beyond racing.”
Enhancing Welfare Through Comprehensive Support
This expansion of registration is expected to significantly improve traceability throughout the sector. By enabling all Thoroughbreds bred for racing to register, RoR can track and support these horses throughout their lives, helping ensure that no horse is overlooked and that each has access to the welfare programmes they may need.
Educational Programmes for All Registered Thoroughbreds
In addition to the revised eligibility criteria, RoR is expanding its educational offering. All registered Thoroughbreds will be granted access to a variety of educational initiatives, including camps, clinics, and events. These programmes are designed to assist horses in their transition to second careers and to support owners in building strong, lasting partnerships with their horses.
RoR Competitions
At this time, RoR’s competition series will remain limited to Thoroughbreds that have been in training. However, this policy will continue to be reviewed.
Further information, including detailed FAQs on registration eligibility, is available on the RoR website: ror.org.uk/eligibility-faqs