The future is expanding for retired racehorses. Generally speaking, there are not many racehorses who can transition to life as stallions or brood mares, passing on their blood to future generations. Some go on to second careers as riding horses, for example. But, in the end, thoroughbreds are basically farm animals.
To let as many retired racehorses as possible live out their natural lifespans, there are increasing efforts in Japan to create new opportunities for them. As part of such efforts, nonprofit corporations have been established. A few years ago, a group whose members support retired racehorses as foster parents based on monthly subscription fees was established.
The Retired Racehorse Cup makes many people aware of the existence of retired racehorses and the roles they play. An equestrian competition organized by the National Riding Club Association of Japan, the RRC was first held in 2018 and will mark its sixth anniversary this year. Retired racehorses registered in a stud book are eligible to participate as long as they meet certain requirements, such as time since retirement and age.