The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) has announced that Claiborne Farm and Lane’s End Farm will co-sponsor the Former Broodmare division at the 2025 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, scheduled for October 8-11 at the Kentucky Horse Park. This division provides a competitive platform for recently-retired broodmares, allowing them to participate alongside traditional racehorses in various disciplines, with a dedicated prize pool of $10,000. Claiborne president Walker Hancock emphasized the importance of supporting these mares as they transition to new careers.
The Former Broodmare division, which debuted as a pilot program in 2023, aims to increase visibility and demand for broodmares, a group often overlooked in the Thoroughbred industry. The 2024 class featured 20 mares, with many retiring due to reproductive issues rather than age or lack of success. Lane’s End’s Bill Farish highlighted the unique opportunity this division provides for mares to showcase their talents beyond breeding.
RRP executive director Kirsten Green praised the ongoing support from Claiborne and Lane’s End, noting that such partnerships are crucial for enhancing outcomes for retired broodmares. The division is also backed by the Maryland Horse Breeders Association, with eligibility requirements for broodmares outlined for the upcoming competition. The RRP continues to work towards increasing the demand for off-track Thoroughbreds through various initiatives, including the Thoroughbred Makeover, which is the largest retraining competition for recently-retired racehorses.
