British Races to Support Small Breeders

The Thoroughbred Breeders Association in Great Britain, in conjunction with racecourses and the British Horse Racing Authority, will be piloting two races in September 2016 to support small breeders. 

The races for 2-year-olds will be run at seven furlongs and open to horses sired by British-based stallions who at the time of covering were advertised at a fee of £15,000 ($19,689) or less.

The condition races will offer three-pound weight allowances for each £5,000 ($6,563) reduction in the stallion fee. Weight penalties will be issued to winners of previous races.

The first race, open to colts and geldings, will take place at Goodwood Sept. 21, followed by the fillies edition of the race at Newmarket Sept. 22.

"The races will provide valuable race opportunities for smaller (owners and) breeders and for purchasers of affordable horses," TBA said in a release. "These new races will receive the TBA's full endorsement and support through sponsorship funds, as they will provide opportunities that will help support smaller breeders within Great Britain.

"Smaller breeders are an integral part of racing's supply chain, with 34% of foals produced each year hailing from operations with one-two broodmares, and their role is also noticeable in the high percentage (43%) of 2-year-olds running on racecourses in Great Britain being purchased for less than £50,000.

"TBA would like to thank the BHA for delivering this trial within the 2016 race program, as part of their holistic race planning."