Abstract

Thoroughbred horses are prepared for a second career as a sport or recreation horse after completing their racing career. This study aimed to characterise and assess desirable phenotypic traits of Thoroughbreds during re-training after racing. Fourteen traits associated with equestrian sport success and market appeal were described using a linear scoring system. Thoroughbred horses (n=32) were graded both upon entry and sale from a recognised re-trainers facility. The horses were five (IQR 4-7) years old, 162 (IQR 157-165) cm high and 510 (IQR 478-539) kg on arrival. Time to sale was 17 (IQR 7-43) days. Traits associated with behaviour and trainer interaction were changeable and had a tighter distribution around the mid-point of the scale between entry and sale assessments. Body condition score increased and was collinear with body shape, indicating a change in muscle mass distribution. Principle Component Analysis (PCA) assessed the variance between the linear traits. Willingness to work (loading = 0.9), herd bound (loading = -0.7), reactivity (loading = 0.7) and response to bit (loading 0.7) contributed to most of the variation in PC1. Jump scope (loading = 0.8) was the most influential trait in PC2. When horses were grouped by sale time, ease of riding and handling appeared more desirable than high sport potential.

Legg, K.A., Gibson M.J., Gee E.K., and Rogers C.W.

Hamilton, Volume 85, Hamilton, 35-40, 2025