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Raceday at Plumpton – 18th November 2024

Plumpton raceday

Our charity fundraising Raceday is confirmed and we’re delighted to be heading back to Plumpton Racecourse, in Lewes, East Sussex, on Monday, the 18th November 2024.

This Raceday is our main fundraising event of the year, where we bring together a great group of people to raise vital funds for our charity. This will be the second year of hosting this November event, and after the success of last year, we knew we needed to go back!

Plumpton is the hidden gem in the world of horse racing. With a stunning rural backdrop, you can enjoy delicious food and drink whilst having a memorable sporting experience. And it’s for everyone, from novice to racing expert.

This fixture combines seven brilliant races with key fundraising for us. Our charity lunch will be held in the Final Fence Restaurant. This is located on the lawns of the racecourse alongside the final fence and last furlong. It’s the best spot to have a great day, and be right at the heart of the action.

Tickets are £110 per person, which includes a welcome drink on arrival, delicious 3-course lunch and half a bottle of wine per person, a silent auction, fundraising games and a main auction with some exciting lots, plus a raffle. There will also be a tipster to help us hopefully back a few winners!

Our superstar Pete The Feat will also be there! Find him in the Retired Racehorse Stable on the day.

Approximate timings TBC –

Gates Open – 10:30 AM
First Race – 12.30 PM
Last Race – 3.55 PM

Please secure your place by booking online here. Or alternatively email Catherine and she will be happy to help.

Summer News

Summer is in full swing, and despite the weather being unpredictable, our residents are thriving on the wonderful lush grass. Here’s the latest news from the Centre!

Racehorse sanctuary open dayTHE RACEHORSE SANCTUARY ANNUAL OPEN DAY – 14TH SEPTEMBER 2024

The annual open day at the Racehorse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre this year is on the 14th September so mark your calendar. Everyone is invited to join the fun. Bring the whole family to meet our resident horses and chat with our team about the meaningful work we do. There’s something for everyone, including a variety of stalls selling ‘horsey stuff’ and delicious food and drinks like burgers and hotdogs. Entry is only £5, and children get in free. We still have some trade stand spaces so if you are interested please email Catherine Mcilwriath for more information on pitch availability and prices.

Racehorse-sanctuary-racedaySAVE THE DATE! RACE DAY AT PLUMPTON RACECOURSE, LEWES, EAST SUSSEX – 18TH NOVEMBER 2024

Join us at Plumpton Racecourse in Lewes for our Race day! Known as a hidden gem in horse racing, Plumpton offers a beautiful rural setting where you can savour delicious food and drinks while enjoying an unforgettable sporting experience. Whether you’re new to racing or an expert, there’s something for everyone. Look out for more details coming soon!

RACEHORSE OWNERS ASSOCIATION (ROA) VISIT

On Monday 8th July, members of the Racehorse Owners Association and the Racegoers Club enjoyed a visit to the Racehorse Sanctuary in Pulborough, West Sussex

The group of 25 guests was welcomed by Chief Operating Officer and Trustee, Catherine Mcllwraith, who provided an insightful overview of the invaluable work undertaken at Mulsey, including the re-homing programme. Nigel Dunger, the Yard Manager, gave guests a guided tour of the facility, where they had the opportunity to meet the horses on site. Notable among these were Pet the Feat, thriving in his retirement at 20 years old, and Jardines Lookout, still vibrant at 28 years old.

The visitors were also treated to a ridden demonstration by Sowdrey aka Ollie, a horse that has been successfully rehabilitated and re-trained by the Centre and is now seeking a new home.

The informative morning highlighted the crucial work performed by the charity in supporting thoroughbred welfare.

Sincere thanks go to Catherine, Nigel and all the staff at the Centre for providing a fantastic and enlightening experience. Keep up the excellent work!

The work at The Racehorse Sanctuary & Rehoming Centre is dedicated to helping to safeguard the welfare of all the ex-racehorses into their care so please visit the support us page to see how you could help.

Spring Round up

Spring round upWith spring finally with us we have been able to do many of those post winter jobs, which have been affected by the relentless bad weather, and get the horses into their new summer paddocks. And there is lots to look forward to with summer approaching.

FIGHTING TEMERAIRE HAS BEEN REHOMED

Fighting Temeraire has finally found his forever home. He will be joining Ellie who lives on the edge of The Ashdown Forest and she came collected him last Friday.

Tem passed a 5-stage vetting and Ellie is delighted to be rehoming him. She is hoping to do some low-level eventing with him and has promised to keep in touch.

OLLIE JOINS US AS THE CENTRE

Sowdrey, aka Ollie, will be arriving on the 20th May 2024 and join our group of retired horses. This will be his forever home as he will not be re-homed. He is 20 years old, Dam – In the Wings, Sire – Cadeaux Genereux, and bred by Darley at the Kildangan Stud in Ireland. Trained by Mick Shannon, he raced until he was six and came 2nd on several occasions.

Alex Seth-SmithALEX SETH-SMITH

We now have a new additional volunteer on our team here at the Centre, Alex Seth-Smith, who is a qualified practitioner of The Masterson Method®.

She explains – “as a previous owner of an ex-racehorse, I have first-hand experience of what can be required in this important period of readjustment. At The Racehorse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre, my role is to work with the horses to locate and ease the tension that has a restricting effect through the body, using a specific range of techniques and touch. The Masterson Method®, enables the harmful effects of accumulated muscle tension to be released, easing excessive pressure on ligaments, tendons, and long-term compensation patterns. It is a pleasure to contribute to the rehabilitation process of these beautiful animals”.  

Alex visits us every few months to treat the horses free of charge.

Fete-in-the-parkDATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Fete in the park 2024

This year for the first time we will be attending The Fete in the Park at Petworth on the 29th of June 2024. It is a very well attended event, with between 3 and 4 thousand people attending last year, is a great family day out, and entrance is free! The Fete starts at 12.00 noon and finishes at 5.00pm, followed by a free concert until 8.00 pm. The Racehorse Sanctuary and Re-homing Centre will be there as a local charity.

Annual Open Day

On Saturday the 14th of September 2024 we will be holding our annual Open Day. This event is very popular with all our supporters, both old and new! Please put the date in your diary and come and join us for a fun day out. More information will be released closer to the time.

 

Winter Appeal 2023: Sponsor a Horse

Sponsor-a-horse

As winter approaches, the cost of feed, hay, bedding, and veterinary bills puts a significant strain on our resources. We understand that this is a challenge faced by horse owners across the country. That’s why we are incredibly grateful for any donations we receive, especially during the winter season.

If you are able to support us in any way, especially this winter, there are several ways you can make a donation. Donations can be made easily through our website, by phone, text, or mail. Simply visit our website for more information.

However, if you are looking to make a long-term commitment and contribute to the care of our resident horses, sponsoring a horse may be the perfect option for you.

Sponsor a Horse this winter

Your sponsorship goes towards the care of all our horses at the Centre. The Sanctuary Sponsorship Scheme allows you to become a part of our family of Sanctuary Supporters, with a commitment that truly makes a difference.

At the Centre, some horses cannot be rehomed due to various reasons or require regular specialised attention. These horses become permanent residents and find their forever home with us.

We currently have seven horses available for sponsorship as they will remain with us for the rest of their lives. Their names are Snowdrop, Mr. Vitality, Pete The Feat, Dudley Allen, Zellensky, Sir Cozzie, and Jardines Lookout. More information about each horse can be found on the residents page of our website.

Sponsoring a horse involves an annual payment of £250 for one year. As a sponsor, you will receive a large photo of the horse you choose, regular newsletters, and invitations to various events. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Centre in Mulsey, where you can meet your sponsored horse, receive updates from our team, and enjoy a cup of coffee and cake.

Your commitment as a sponsor is vital in securing a future for these horses. Sponsorship can be done individually or as a group, such as with friends, family, or fellow horse enthusiasts at your livery or racing yard. Or a Christmas present to a family member.

What you need to do

Simply download and complete the sponsorship form from our website, and return it to: The Racehorse Sanctuary, 2 Crouch Farm Cottages, Barlavington, Petworth, West Sussex GU28 0LQ. Payment options are available on the form. If you are a UK taxpayer, don’t forget to fill in the Gift Aid section.

We want to express our heartfelt gratitude for all your support and donations. No matter the amount you can afford to give, it means the world to our entire team, and especially to the horses!

Racehorse Sanctuary Raceday – Monday 20th November 2023

Racehorse-sanctuary-raceday

Our Raceday is at Plumpton Racecourse, Lewes. It is the hidden gem in the world of horse racing. With a stunning rural backdrop, you can enjoy delicious food and drink whilst having a memorable sporting experience. And it’s for everyone, from novice to racing expert. This fixture combines seven brilliant races with key fundraising for the Racehorse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre.

Alongside a charity lunch in the Final Fence Restaurant, there will be a silent auction that any racegoer can visit and bid on, as well as a raffle. There are still tables available so please secure your place by booking our final fence package.

Gates Open – 10:30 AM
First Race – 12:30 PM
Last Race – 3:55 PM

ENCLOSURES

There is one enclosure available at this fixture, the Grandstand & Paddock, where you are grandstand side and have access to the parade ring and all bars (unfortunately no dogs except assistance dogs are allowed).

FOOD & DRINK

Grandstand & Paddock Enclosure

There is a lovely selection of local and national drinks available from our three racecourse bars on the Grandstand side of the course and bean to cup coffee from the Southdown Stand, which also serves deli-style food. There are catering concessions serving a wide range of food options behind the grandstands for you to enjoy, while pies and light refreshments can be purchased from the Paddock Bar and Chasers Bar. No food or drink in any form will be allowed to be brought into the Grandstand & Paddock Enclosure (everything must be bought on site).

For more information on the hospitality packages click here>

The Racehorse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre Open Day September 16th 2023

racehorse-sanctuary-open-day

We are incredibly grateful to all our supporters who joined us on our Open Day on September 16th 2023.

It was such a joy to be able to showcase two of our horses, Charlie and Fighting Temerairie, under saddle in our brand new sand school. Sophie did an amazing job riding them and the horses enjoyed the attention from the audience. Pete The Feat and Stake Acclaim were expertly shown in hand by Claire, bringing back memories of their time in the parade ring. Thanks to Nigel, Claire, and Sophie for taking such good care of all our horses, they were turned out beautifully and looked absolutely stunning.

All our other horses were either in their stables or out in the paddock’s where our visitors could say hello. We also had a mechanical horse for any up and coming young jockey’s who wanted to try their hand, thank you to Luke Dace for the loan of his horse.

One of the highlights was the “Guess the weight of Winston”, featuring the adorable Shetland pony, Winston. Thanks to Becky Green for bringing him along and providing some extra fun.

Our merchandise stall was buzzing with activity, offering a range of items such as books, cakes, polo shirts, caps, and cards. We also had a tack sale with donated items, and the rugs were particularly popular.

The delicious burgers at the BBQ almost sold out, thanks to Tara Best for generously donating them from her farm in Gloucestershire. Tara also took the time to take lots of photos and videos throughout the day, which you can find on our FaceBook page.

We feel incredibly fortunate to have had such a fantastic day filled with sunshine and support. None of this would have been possible without every single person who helped before, during, and after the event. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

August 2023 News Roundup

 Summer is in full swing and although the weather has been unseasonably wet, all our residents are thriving with all the lovely grass! So here is the latest news from the Centre.

The Racehorse Sanctuary Annual Open Day – 16th September 2023

Our annual open day at the Race Horse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre is fast approaching! This year it is being held on the 16th of September 2023.

Everyone is welcome. You can come with all the family and see the resident horses and chat to the team on the work that we do. There is plenty to do for all ages including lots of stalls with plenty of ‘horsey stuff’ on sale, food and drink which includes burgers and hotdogs. Entry fee is just £5 and children are free. We also still have a few trade stand spaces so if you are interested please email Catherine Mcilwriath for more information on pitch availability and prices.

Save the date! Raceday at Plumpton Racecourse, Lewes, East Sussex – 20th November 2023

Our Raceday is at Plumpton Racecourse, Lewes. Plumpton is the hidden gem in the world of horse racing. With a stunning rural backdrop, you can enjoy delicious food and drink whilst having a memorable sporting experience. And it’s for everyone, from novice to racing expert. More details to follow.

The Horse Welfare Board Census

The Horse Welfare Board is asking owners of former ex-racehorses to complete the census. However, this is a notice to all our keepers, The Racehorse Sanctuary will be sending the information required so you don’t need to do anything.

Summer News Roundup

summer news roundup

We are now well into summer and all the residents are enjoying longer days out. There has been plenty going on at the Centre, so here is a roundup.

Our new sandschool is complete

We are delighted to say that the long awaited sandschool has now been completed. Constructed by HJS Land Services, the new 40 x 20 metre arena has a silica sand surface combined with Carpita fibre, which will prevent the arena from freezing during the winter months and enable us to use it all year round. It will make such a difference to the team with exercising and training the horses. We want to say a big thank all those who donated towards this venture.

Fontwell Raceday Auction

The John Francome auction lot was a visit to Beechdown and Clive Cox Racing, Cathy Woods bid of £1000 won her dream day out, Thank you John for donating such a fabulous prize. John also donated a four-ball round of golf at his club John’s partner will be either Mick Fitzgerald or A.P. McCoy. The golf was sold on the day but the winner has yet to play.

Beechdown Stables

Cathy continued, “The following day John kindly provided us with breakfast in the idyllic surroundings of Beechdown. We then met various members of staff and viewed the horses being exercised. A very generous auction item which I am so pleased to have won and call it my 70th birthday present to myself. Another item off the bucket list!”

Annual Open Day – 16th September 2023

Our annual open day provides an opportunity for everyone to visit the Centre and chat with the team about the work that we do. There are lots of stalls, BBQ, licensed bar, Ice Cream van and Dog Show. Plus a parade of some of our horses. Gates open at 12 noon and the event finishes at 4 pm. Entrance is £5 and children are free. If you are interested in having a stall or helping on the day email Catherine Mcllwriath

Summer Challenge 2023

Our summer challenge is well underway! The aim is to cover 10 miles and you have until Saturday 16th September 2023 to complete it. Clock up the miles in any way you wish, whether that be on horseback, by running, swimming, walking, cycling or even in a wheelchair. To donate any amount, please visit our Summer Challenge 2023 Just Giving Page.

Summer Challenge 2023

Summer challenge 2023

Introducing our summer challenge 2023!

Make the most of the lovely summer weather and raise funds at the same time!

Our summer challenge encourages you to put your best foot forward, get outside and get active in a way that feels fun for you.

The aim is to cover 10 miles within a 3 month window, starting from 16th June 2023. You can clock up the miles in any way that feels great for you, whether that be on horseback, or by running, swimming, walking, cycling or even in a wheelchair. Just don’t forget to have fun doing it! Or if you’re feeling creative, set your own 10mile challenge.

The distance can either be covered in one stint or as a mini challenge, really making this accessible to more people. It’s your challenge, so do it your way.

Challenges are a fantastic way to push yourself, celebrate a milestone, commit to a fitness goal or to just raise money for a charity you love. So whether you’re celebrating a special birthday, just fancy the adventure, want to prove to others that you can do it, or you just want to fundraise for us, this is the best challenge for you to start with.

Every little really does help and the money you raise goes a really long way to helping us with our mission. We want to continue to both re-home suitable ex-racehorses with loving new owners and also continue to provide a secure lifetime home for our long term residents and those who, through no fault of their own, cannot be re-homed.

We also think your hard work, commitment and determination needs celebrating, so all registered entrants who raise over £50 for us will receive a winners rosette and be invited to attend our open day to be presented with their prize and shown our true appreciation. Plus you can then meet the horses you’ve directly helped through your fundraising efforts.

We always want to put the FUN into fundraising and hope our summer challenge has got you thinking about how you can get involved. As ever, if you have any questions, please do get in touch. We’d love to celebrate you on our social media, so if you have any social accounts or business pages you’d love us to celebrate, please do share those with us too and we can support and share your journey.

The Challenge must be completed between Friday 16th June and Saturday 16th September (our open day at our Pulborough yard). To Register please email ‘Summer Challenge’ and your contact details to info@theracehorsesanctuary.org

Please donate now whatever you can.

DONATE ONLINE

To donate any amount, please visit our Summer Challenge 2023 Just Giving Page.

DONATE BY TEXT

You can TEXT donations to The Racehorse Sanctuary’s Summer Challenge 2023.

  • To donate £1, text HORS001 to 70201
  • To donate £3, text HORS001 to 70331
  • To donate £5, text HORS001 to 70970
  • To donate £10, text HORS001 to 70191

Please follow the message instructions to register for Gift Aid if you are a UK taxpayer.

DONATE BY POST

You can send a cheque payable to The Racehorse Sanctuary to us at:

The Racehorse Sanctuary
Admin Office: 2 Crouch Farm Cottages,
Barlavington
Petworth
West Sussex GU28 0LQ

DONATE BY BANK TRANSFER

Please state Summer Challenge 2023 in the payment reference and transfer to:

Account name:             The Racehorse Sanctuary
Account number:             03592497
Sort code:                         30-94-41

Fundraising, payments, and donations will be processed and administered by the National Funding Scheme (Charity No: 1149800), operating as DONATE. Texts will be charged at your standard network rate. For Terms & Conditions, see easydonate.org.

 

Spring News

With spring well and truly here, despite the rather damp and cold weather, we are looking forward to getting our horses out for longer on the new spring grass. There has been plenty going on at the Centre, so here is a round up ….

NEW TRUSTEES

We would like to welcome Emily, Louise and Phil as new Trustees to The Racehorse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre. They all have a passion for horses and are very much looking forward to joining us. We now have a strong board of Trustees, all of whom are dedicated to continuing the security of all the horses in our care.

newcTHE NATIONAL EQUINE WELFARE COUNCIL

Another piece of fantastic news, The National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC) has granted us membership. As an organisation, it is a nationally recognised and respected member body working tirelessly to ensure high standards of equine welfare, and we are very proud to have been accepted by them.

It is the NEWC’s mission to protect the welfare of the horse, pony, donkey and mule by ensuring that everyone who has an interest or association with these equines makes its health and welfare the overriding factor in all decision-making.

NEW SPONSOR

The Centre would like to welcome and thank a new sponsor who has joined us in the last month, local company Vetlab Supplies based in Pulborough, West Sussex. Vetlabs owners, Michael Fleming & his wife Rita, have had their own racehorses in the past and having visited the Racehorse Sanctuary recently, they were so impressed, Mike even called it an Equine Paradise, they are keen to support in any way they can to help continue our work with ex-racehorses.

And big thank you to Mike and Victoria who very kindly did our worm count tests for all our horses at the Centre. They were all in the range, well done Nigel for excellent stable management.

FIGHTING TEMARAIRE

Our latest ex-racehorse arrived last week from Dean Ivory, a trainer in Hertfordshire. Fighting Temaraire, stable name Tem (a huge relief as we are all struggling to pronounce his name!), is a 10 year old bay gelding. His racing career includes 55 races, with 8 wins, 6 2nds and 4 3rds, before retiring recently. Tem will now have a much-deserved holiday before he begins his retraining with Nigel and his team in becoming a riding horse and hopefully finding his forever home.

SAVE THE DATE!

Our annual open day at the Race Horse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre is the 16th of September 2023. This is a day when anyone can come and see the resident horses and chat to the team on the work that we do. There are lots of stalls with plenty of ‘horsey stuff’ on sale and food and drink including burgers and hotdogs. So please put the date in your diary. If you are interested in having a stall on the day please email Catherine Mcilwriath for more information on pitch availability and prices.

 

For the love of ex-racehorses