Issued on behalf of the Horse Welfare Board
Schooling trial days will return to British racecourses and Point-to-Point venues this autumn following a successful first phase of a pilot earlier this year.
The schooling days, which are led by the Horse Welfare Board and supported by the Racing Foundation and British Horseracing Authority, offer horses the opportunity to gain crucial experience on the track prior to running in competitive races under rules, as well as those horses returning from lay-offs or switching obstacles.
A total of 225 horses took part in schooling trials during the first phase of the pilot.
Primarily aimed at Jump horses, the pilot began at Larkhill Point-to-Point in January 2025 and resumes at Ffos Las Racecourse on Thursday 9 October, followed by:
- Worcester Racecourse, 23 October
- Larkhill Point-to-Point, 4 November
- Maisemore Park Point-to-Point, 10 November
- Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse, 18 November
The schooling days typically feature 6-8 trials per day, with each involving 10 to 12 horses and run at a slower pace than a regular rules race, helping to simulate a raceday experience but without the added pressure of competitive action.
The programme is open to horses of all ages and stages in their careers, from young unraced prospects to experienced racehorses returning after a break.
Pip Kirkby, Horse Welfare Board Project Lead, said: “We are delighted that the schooling trial pilot will return for a second phase this autumn, beginning at Ffos Las on Thursday.
“The initiative was very well supported by trainers in the first phase, and we were therefore extremely pleased to be able to resume the pilot, with the ongoing support of the Racing Foundation.
“The feedback we have received has been very positive so far, with trainers praising this new avenue that they can use to better prepare their horses for competitive action.
“The autumn schedule has already proved very popular, with plenty of runners set to attend each of the trial days, and we will be confirming more dates for early 2026 in due course.”
Notes to editors:
1. For more information contact: [email protected]
