Pacers and trotters will transition to their lives after racing more often and in shorter time under a Harness Racing Victoria strengthening of its rehoming program.
The industry’s controlling body has today announced an increase in the number of approved re-trainers within its HERO (Harness Education and Re-Homing Opportunities) program, reducing the waiting list for retired racehorses to transition to life beyond racing.
“Every horse entering the HERO program will be in the care of an industry-approved re-trainer within three months. Our new model will allow for that,” HRV General Manager of Integrity Brent Fisher said.
“Our firm commitment is to have more standardbred horses re-trained and re-homed quicker. Horse welfare is a non-negotiable for the harness racing industry.
“This is a more cost-effective model that we have introduced and it’s great to have more re-trainers on board.
“These are talented horsemen and women who have been doing wonderful work in the re-training space themselves. It’s fantastic now to be able to align them to the HERO program.”
Established in 2015, HERO has provided retired racehorses with new opportunities at the completion of their racing career, including pleasure riding horses and companions, show horses, and program ambassadors – which means attending events and being patted by fans.
“The standardbred is a wonderful and versatile breed, which is often dramatically and unfairly underrated compared to their thoroughbred cousins,” HERO Manager Tanya McDermott said.
“We have so many success stories from the HERO program about horses that have helped young people battling personal issues and others that have gone on to successful careers in other pursuits.
“It is an exciting time for the program.”
Photos: (Top) HERO ambassador Smudge Bromac and a racegoer get to know one another. (Right) A young fan meets HERO ambassador Waikare Aristocrat.