On 12 to 14 June, the International Federation of Horse Racing Authorities will hold its Global Summit on Equine Safety and Technology at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto, Canada.
“Equine welfare is racing’s single most important priority, and it is at the centre of all decisions we make,” said Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, the International Federation’s Chairman.
“That is why the IFHA has invested significantly in delivering an event that will bring about meaningful enhancements to horse safety and further incorporate cutting-edge technological advances.”
“We recognise the integral role science and innovation plays in safeguarding the wellbeing of our equine athletes, and I am excited that we will bring together world-leading experts.”
“At this IFHA Summit it’s to explore how we can continue to protect our horses now and into the future,” and again focuses on safeguarding equine welfare and shifts in societal expectations.
The Summit is part of the IFHA’s ongoing commitment to improving equine safety and welfare, a key strategic priority of the organisation, and follows the 57th Conference in October 2023.
World-leading research scientists, clinicians, veterinarians, and racing regulators will come gather to examine the most critical horse welfare issues as well as recent technological advances.
Fracture prevention and exercise associated sudden death are issues slated to be investigated, with leaders in these fields delivering both scientific and regulatory workshops in the three days.
The outcome of the Summit will be analysed by IFHA leadership, with view to developing a roadmap for the racing industry to further minimise the risk of fractures and EASD going forward.
In reply, the Executive Chair of Woodbine Entertainment Group Jim Lawson stated “Woodbine Entertainment is proud to host the IFHA Global Summit on Equine Safety and Technology.”
“We are fully supportive of this great initiative, and Woodbine looks forward to welcoming experts and racing administrators from around the globe who are similarly committed to this cause.”
“It promises to be a momentous event in the racing industry’s efforts to improve equine welfare outcomes.”
The IFHA is grateful for the support of Harry M. Zweig Memorial Fund for Equine Research, The HKJC Equine Welfare Research Foundation, and Woodbine Entertainment Group for this Summit.
In addition, the International Forum for the Aftercare of Racehorses will take place on Tuesday, 27 August prior to the 40th Asian Racing Conference in Sapporo from 27 August to 1 September.
Incorporating a day programme of a conference and a facility visit showcasing off-the-track Thoroughbreds, and is hosted by the Japan Racing Association and the Asian Racing Federation.
Beginning at Sapporo Racecourse its the JRA equestrian facility for retired racehorses that the JRA supports and transitions off-the-track Thoroughbreds across a range of second careers.
“We are looking forward to taking everyone to Sapporo Racecourse for a tour of the equestrian facility,” said IFAR Chair Di Arbuthnot, “as Thoroughbreds are capable of second careers.”
“Seeing this firsthand is a memorable and educational experience and the IFAR conference will also allow for the exchange of ideas and success stories on a global scale, which will benefit everyone involved with the aftercare of racehorses.”
