Caymanas ex-racehorses get new path through equestrian retraining

Amid renewed appeals for a formal retirement system for thoroughbreds leaving Caymanas Park, the Equestrian Federation of Jamaica has been working to place some former racehorses into new homes and prepare them for equestrian sport.

The effort was highlighted during a recent FEI retraining of racehorses programme at the Caymanas Equestrian Centre in St Catherine, where veterinarian Dr Jackson Reefer was among 15 participants. He said a horse’s condition is central to any sporting future, whether on the racetrack or in the show ring, because poor health limits both the rider’s experience and the animal’s performance.

Heidi Lala, president of the Equestrian Federation of Jamaica, said not every horse leaving racing can make the transition. She pointed to temperament, conformation and soundness as major considerations when deciding whether an ex-racehorse is suited for disciplines such as show jumping. Lala said the qualities wanted by equestrian riders may differ from those preferred by racetrack trainers, and clean, sound legs are especially important. She also noted that horses must be checked by a veterinarian before entering show competition.

Dr Reefer said record-keeping is another key part of rehousing, since a horse leaving racing usually changes ownership. He said the Jamaica Racing Commission currently serves as the central body for such records, including owner transfers that show when a horse has moved off the racetrack to another location.

He added that racehorses must be microchipped to compete at Caymanas Park, but identification can become harder for animals that trained at the track without ever racing and may not have received a microchip. In those cases, physical markings are used, although serious injuries can make identification difficult. DNA sampling is also available and can confirm parentage if the horse’s dam and sire are registered in the system.

About 10 former Caymanas Park racehorses, ranging in age from four to 15, took part in the retraining exercise.