Lexington, Ky. — The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP), a 501(c)3 charitable organization working to increase demand for Thoroughbreds beyond racing, today announced format changes to its flagship event, the Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, beginning with the 2025 competition year. The world’s largest retraining competition, the Thoroughbred Makeover is designed to not only showcase the trainability and athleticism of the several hundred horses who participate each year, but also to inspire more equestrians to consider a retired racehorse for their next competitive or recreational partner.
“Over the past decade, the Thoroughbred Makeover has directly supported the transition of over 5,000 horses. While our Finale format has served us well, we felt it was time to freshen things up in a way that enhances the experience of our trainers,” said RRP executive director Kirsten Green. “We’ve always been cognizant of what a commitment it is to get a horse to the Thoroughbred Makeover, and we want to recognize that commitment by opening up the path to the top for more participants. Logistically, this change also allows us to better showcase a greater number of talented horses to the public than previously possible via the Finale. We’re excited to kick off this new format on our 10th anniversary year in Kentucky.”
The 2024 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, presented by Thoroughbred Charities of America, will be the final competition year to take place in the current format. This year’s event takes place October 9-12 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, with 353 horses having made a final entry. The event is free and open to the public: learn more about the Makeover at the RRP.org.
—Edited Press Release | Source: American Horse Publications
