After retiring from racing, thoroughbred horses can pursue other careers. One is to become a therapy horse. The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) is a non-profit organization whose mission, to save thoroughbred horses no longer able to compete on the racetrack from possible neglect and...
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Photographer: Kathy Landman
On average, a racehorse will race for four years.
Most Thoroughbreds easily transition into other careers.
Thoroughbreds are mainly used for racing, but they also participate in other sporting activities such as eventing, mounted archery, polo, and fox hunting. Thoroughbred horses may also serve as therapy horses and lead ponies on the racetrack.
After their racing careers have ended, Thoroughbreds can become stallions or broodmares for breeding.
Photographer: Ed Sindoni
There are many potential paths for those hoping to pursue a career in the equine and racing industry.
Some of these careers include farm manager, veterinarian, breeder, farrier, jockey, sports agent, exercise rider, hotwalker, groom, trainer, sports writer, broadcaster, and racetrack administrator.
There are universities and colleges that offer degrees in the equine and racing industry, with various program concentrations including equine health and services, equine management and breeding, riding and training, and equine sales.