New opportunity for Thoroughbreds
KZN Breeders to promote the successful transition of TBs from racehorses to dressage champs.
EXCITING news for owners of ex-race horses competing in dressage is the chance to win recognition for their mounts thanks to the KZN Breeders Association.
In a discipline, largely dominated by Warmbloods, it is a refreshing chance to give recognition to Thoroughbreds who are achieving success in the arena.
The KZN Breeders Association, an organization comprising of a number of KZN racehorse stud farms, has joined forces with KZN Dressage and will sponsor six shows during 2014, with rosettes and prizes at each show – culminating with a trophy and prizes being awarded to the top Thoroughbred horse with the most points accumulated over the year, and possibly a trophy for the top KZN-bred winner.
KZN Breeders have the only incentive scheme in South Africa where racehorse breeders are rewarded financially for the success of their horses on the racetrack.
Sally McGrath, a provincial dressage judge said, she and the KZN dressage committee were excited that Thoroughbreds off the race track were able to experience other sports successfully.
The levels of competition, which will count for points include Preliminary, Novice, Elementary and Elementary Medium levels. The trophy will be awarded at the final show.
Sharon Blades, owner of Captain’s League (Sire: Captain Al, Dam: Little League by Sportsworld) – a successful racehorse turned dressage horse, said, “I think this is a fabulous thing that has been introduced and I think it will encourage a lot more people with Thoroughbreds to do dressage.”
Candiese Marnewick, Marketing and Communications officer for The KZN Breeders Association said, “Koos de Klerk, the chairman of the KZN Breeders as well as the board, are very pleased to be a part of this initiative to highlight the success of Thoroughbreds post racing – proving that ex-racehorses can make a smooth transition from racing to competitive riding sports. We look forward to seeing which horse wins the trophy!”
For more information visit kznbreeders.co.za or contact Sally McGrath at smcgrath@telkomsa.net.
