Natasha Rose's presentation, "How Does the Equestrian Industry View the Suitability and Versatility of Retired Thoroughbred Racehorses in a Second Career?" delves into the perceptions within the equestrian industry regarding retired Thoroughbreds, also known as OTTBs (Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds). The study aims to understand these views to support a sustainable aftercare sector for racehorses. It explores questions such as whether OTTBs are believed to have more physical issues, their quality of life before and after racing, and the diversity of second careers they can pursue. Additionally, the presentation discusses the reputation of Thoroughbreds, the education and information available on retired racehorses, and more.
Natasha Rose’s career and interest in the Thoroughbred aftercare industry was sparked off by a weekend stable job at the Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre during her undergraduate university years. Natasha graduated with a BSc and MSC in Equine Science and then went on to do the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) graduate trainee programme. Her career in the British horseracing sector developed from there, and she went on to become the Head of Operations for the Horseracing Betting Levy Board. Currently Natasha is the Executive Manager, Equestrian Affairs Projects for the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC). Her research, titled “How Does the International Equestrian Community View the Suitability and Versatility of Retired Thoroughbred Racehorses in a Second Career?” formed part of her studies at the University of Liverpool for the Thoroughbred Horseracing Industries MBA.