Katja Weimann and her Off the Track eventer, Dapoint.

© Off the Track
 

On Saturday, Minister for Racing Martin Pakula announced a $120,000 boost for the Off the Track Triequithon at Memsie Stakes Day at Caulfield racecourse.

The showcase event combines the athleticism of Olympic sport with thoroughbred racing and consists of horses and riders participating in the disciplines including dressage, cross country and show jumping.

Off the Track Triequithon is a program that caters for racehorses after their racing careers have ended. Martin Pakula explained how the event "provides another option for thoroughbreds after their racing careers have ended and demonstrates (the government's) commitment to support equine welfare.”

“The Triequithon is becoming an important event on the racing calendar and it’s a great opportunity for the equestrian community to appreciate all that thoroughbred racing has to offer.”

The Andrews Labor Government is contributing more than $42,000 to the event, courtesy of its Victorian Racing Industry Fund Raceday Attraction Program. Racing Victoria is providing more than $60,000, Melbourne Racing Club is donating more than $18,000 and the Royal Flying Doctor Service is contributing $1100.

Bernard Saundry, CEO of Racing Victoria, welcomed the government's contribution for what he describes as an "exciting concept".

“The Triequithon provides us with the opportunity to support and promote equine welfare and to ensure positive outcomes for retired racehorses.”

Saturday's event promoted the many options available for thoroughbreds to participate in equestrian events once they have finished their racing careers.

As an added incentive for owners to better understand post-racing options for their horses, a competition will also be held offering $5000 worth of re-training expenses.

The inaugural Triequithon was held at Mornington Racecourse in April 2014 and was moved to Caulfield last year. Feedback from riders, officials and spectators has been positive and the aim now is to establish the event as a regular fixture on the Victorian racing calendar.

Riders will be competing for a prize pool of $15,000, making the Racing Victoria Off the Track Triequithon one of the richest contests on the Australian eventing calendar.

The event will take place between thoroughbred races on a grass area near the top of the home straight.

Source: Victorian government media release
 

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