Queensland Off-The-Track owners of newly retired racehorses will now have access to free feed and nutritional advice with the addition of two new partners to the QOTT Clubhouse initiative.
Pryde’s EasiFeed and Equilize Horse Nutrition have joined the stable of organisations already partnered with QOTT to optimise racehorse aftercare and promote best practice equine welfare to support retired racehorses in their lives post-racing.
The partnership between QOTT and Pryde’s EasiFeed will provide owners of newly retired racehorses with $100 worth of horse feed via a redemption gift card to assist in the initial phases of their retired racehorse’s new life.
Head of Pryde's EasiFeed, Howard Seargent, said Pryde’s EasiFeed has a large range of horse feed on offer, including a feed specifically created for OTT horses called “Easi Off The Track”.
“At Pryde's EasiFeed, we take immense pride in supporting the well-thought-out and generous New OTT Owner Welcome Pack initiated by Queensland Off-The-Track,” Seargent said.
“This collaboration allows us to bring the highest quality feeds to owners of eligible horses, ensuring that their retired racehorse receives the care and nutrition they deserve as they transition into their post-racing lives.”
Furthermore, owners of retired racehorses in Queensland will have access to free education and nutritional advice to support the proper care and nutrition of retired thoroughbred and standardbred horses.
The partnership between QOTT and Equilize Horse Nutrition will focus on the importance of understanding how to feed OTT horses through a range of free education resources, including equine nutrition videos, a digital e-book and live Q&A webinars to be presented by world renowned equine nutrition specialist, Dr Nerida McGilchrist.
Additionally, Equilize Horse Nutrition will also offer their on-line course “How to Feed Better. Safer. Smarter” to QOTT Clubhouse members at a discounted rate of $49 (RRP $199).
Dr Nerida McGilchrist from Equilize Horse Nutrition said she was looking forward to providing advice and support to owners who may lack knowledge in this area, as well as more experienced operators.
“Equilize is truly excited to be given the opportunity to provide education videos and live Q&A sessions to help QOTT Clubhouse members get feeding of their new OTT off to the best possible start,” Dr McGilchrist said.
“Getting nutrition right in the early stages of an OTT’s transition from racing plays an important role in helping to make sure that their transition is a successful one.
“The right nutrition long term also helps to keep our QOTT Clubhouse members safe and gives them the most enjoyable experience of owning an OTT, ensuring the best outcomes for everyone.”
The QOTT Clubhouse is an online community where all Queensland residents who own an off-the-track thoroughbred or standardbred horse can join to take advantage of the several initiatives on offer, while assisting to increase the visibility of retired racehorses across the state.
By signing up, owners can access exclusive benefits, including access to accredited education courses and seminars covering best practice in equine training and welfare, as well as members-only competitions and discounts with QOTT’s valued partners.
Cavalor Equicare, Equestrian Queensland, Equitation Science International, HorseRecords, PETstock and Poseidon Animal Health are already in partnership with the QOTT Clubhouse.
Racing Queensland Senior Animal Care Manager Kim Duffy welcomed the partnerships of Pryde’s EasiFeed and Equilize Horse Nutrition to the QOTT Clubhouse.
“Equine nutrition is one of the most important and most misunderstood aspects of horse ownership, and it is vitally important we continue to educate owners in this area,” Ms Duffy said.
“Providing nutritional support from the time our horses leave the track, as well as offering longer-term support and advice to their owners, further enhances QOTT’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of retired racehorses well beyond their years on the racetrack.
“Assisting new owners to transition horses from a full racing feeding program to one that supports new health and energy requirements is incredibly important in ensuring a horse’s success in a new home.
“QOTT is committed to providing assistance during this period, and helping ease the transition of racehorses into their next phase of life.”
The QOTT program was established in 2021 following the Martin Inquiry to provide a high-quality first transition for thoroughbred and standardbred horses from racing and breeding activities to retirement.
Since its inception, QOTT has launched five major initiatives including the Acknowledged Retrainers Program, the Subsidised Lessons Program, the Event Sponsorship Program, the QOTT Grants Program and the QOTT Clubhouse.
Click here to learn more about the QOTT Program.