I don’t usually post about things like this, but I feel it’s time to start a conversation.

There is currently very little support available in South Australia for Standardbreds once they finish their racing careers. As retrainers, rescues, and advocates, we are often left carrying the financial, physical, and emotional responsibility of helping these horses transition into life after racing.

I have been working with some wonderful businesses that are willing to help establish an Off The Track Standardbred incentive program here in SA. The goal is simple: encourage retraining, support owners and retrainers, promote horse welfare, and showcase just how versatile and valuable these horses can be after racing.

Unfortunately, despite genuine efforts to start these discussions, it feels like we’re falling on deaf ears.

This isn’t about attacking SA Harness Racing. There are many people within the industry who genuinely care for their horses and do the right thing. However, there is clearly a gap in support, and pretending it doesn’t exist won’t help the horses.

I’ve personally taken on retired racehorses in less than ideal condition, and the responsibility of rehabilitating, retraining, and rehoming them falls entirely on the retrainer. We do it because we care, but we shouldn’t have to do it alone.

Something has to change.

Standardbreds deserve opportunities after racing. Retrainers deserve support. Owners who want the best for their horses deserve pathways to help them succeed.

Because of this, I am putting together a petition to demonstrate that there is strong community support for improved Off The Track programs and assistance for retired Standardbreds in South Australia.

If you believe these horses deserve better support after racing, and if you’ve experienced the challenges of retraining or rehoming them yourself, I’d love for you to stand behind this initiative.

Together, we can show that this isn’t just one person’s concern, it’s something our entire Standardbred community cares about.

The horses have given so much. It’s time we do more for them.