Riverrock Farm has set their sights on life after racing and have decided to contribute financially towards the retraining and rehoming of thoroughbreds this season.
The Matamata farm has been a regular vendor at New Zealand Bloodstock’s Ready to Run Sale and they have committed to donating a portion of their sales towards rehoming thoroughbreds.
“We have decided that for every horse Riverrock Farm sells this season either publicly or privately, we will donate $250 toward the costs associated with rehoming and retraining off-the-track thoroughbreds,” Riverrock principal Chad Orsmby said.
“We hope that by the end of November we will be able to donate upwards of $3,000 to one or two of New Zealand’s deserving thoroughbred rehomers. These guys are such an asset to the industry and are integral to showcasing the diversity of the thoroughbred and giving them a life after racing.
“We think thoroughbred welfare is so important and believe that we are all responsible for giving every horse the best chance to live a happy life and excel both on and off the track.
“Welfare has always been a priority at Riverrock Farm and we are consciously making an effort to give back as much as we can.”
“Although it’s only a small amount per horse, alongside our contribution through stakes percentage, we know every little bit adds up.
“In a typical year, we sell upwards of 20 horses, with 12-15 due to go under the hammer at November’s New Zealand Bloodstock Ready To Run sale alone. So we hope that we can make a small difference to a number of horses over the coming years.”
