The International Forum for the Aftercare of Racehorses (IFAR) was pleased to be invited by the Korea Racing Authority (KRA) to present a series of seminars to a broad cross section of industry stakeholders this week. Dr. Eliot Forbes, a member of IFAR’s steering group, was hosted by the KRA and led intensive workshops in Seoul and Busan. Dr. Forbes provided a detailed examination of IFAR’s “Aftercare Toolkit,” which is a selection of practical strategies designed to enhance aftercare outcomes that any racing jurisdiction can implement. His address also explored key elements of the global animal welfare debate, highlighting the risks that activists have created across many animal industries. “We are attuned to the risks of activism in many Western countries; however, the global nature of the racing industry means that we are all interconnected,” he said. “The KRA has a strong focus on racehorse aftercare, and the level of audience engagement during the seminars was evidence of the importance of this topic in Korea.” Mr. Song Daeyoung, general manager of the Equine Veterinary Center of the KRA, stated, “Equine welfare and aftercare is recognised as a key issue, and we were pleased to have the opportunity to learn from the expertise and experiences of Dr. Forbes. “We are very appreciative of the work that IFAR undertakes, and these seminars have given us many good ideas to assist us with our aftercare strategies going forward.” IFAR is an independent forum whose aim is to build networks and share best practices to enhance the care of Thoroughbred horses throughout their life. IFAR advocates for the lifetime care of Thoroughbred racehorses and works with racing authorities, industry associations, and racing participants to build awareness of the industry’s obligations to the Thoroughbred and to promote the versatility of the breed to equestrian audiences. |