How prior racing performance influences competition level in off-the-track Thoroughbred horses' post-racing eventing...

The ongoing discussion surrounding the well-being of retired racehorses underscores the importance of implementing effective rehoming strategies that prioritise animal welfare. A significant knowledge gap persists regarding whether a horse's success in racing can be used to reliably predict its performance in different equestrian sports upon retirement from racing.

To examine the association between racehorse performance metrics and eventing metrics in off-the-track Thoroughbreds that compete in eventing within Australia.

Racing metrics and eventing metrics for a sample of off-the-track Thoroughbreds (n = 6,828) registered with Equestrian Australia were collated. Summary statistics of racing metrics were estimated and assessed for differences between horses competing in eventing at level EvA95 and above versus horses competing at levels below EvA95. Generalised linear models were applied to assess the influence of racing performance metrics on eventing performance measures at levels EvA95 and above.

Horses that failed to reach an eventing level of EvA95 were shown to have had significantly (P < 0.01) better racing performance and longer racing careers. Time elapsed since last race was shown to be favourably associated with most eventing parameters assessed and longer best race distances were shown to be significantly associated with higher levels of eventing achieved.

Riders seeking high-level eventing prospects may want to prioritize Thoroughbreds that excelled at longer race distances; however, racing performance alone does not appear to be a reliable predictor of success in eventing. Other factors, such as stride characteristics and the suitability of the rider-horse partnership, also warrant thoughtful consideration.