TREO Eile is inviting members of the equestrian community to take part in their survey exploring how thoroughbreds and ex-racehorses are perceived across a range of disciplines.

As more thoroughbreds continue to enjoy successful second careers in eventing, show jumping, dressage, equine-assisted, showing, leisure riding and Pony Club activities, understanding how the breed is viewed by riders and producers and other equine professionals has never been more important. This survey has been designed to gather valuable feedback on the factors that influence whether someone would consider choosing a thoroughbred for a second career after racing.

Different disciplines

It looks at current attitudes towards thoroughbreds and ex-racehorses, including perceptions around temperament, trainability, athleticism and suitability for different disciplines. It also asks respondents to identify any barriers that may prevent them from choosing a thoroughbred, such as retraining, soundness concerns, cost, or difficulty finding the right horse. Just as importantly, it explores what supports or incentives might encourage more people to consider the breed in future.

Mission

At Treo Eile, the mission is to support, promote and celebrate the thoroughbred beyond racing. Feedback from within the wider equestrian community is an important part of that work. The results of this survey will help us better understand where perceptions are strong, where challenges remain, and how we can continue to support both horses and riders in making successful transitions from the track to other disciplines.

Information from the survey will help us build an action plan on how we continue to support thoroughbreds in their second careers. The survey will only take a few minutes and Treo Eile greatly appreciates your time and opinions.