The inaugural international conference jointly hosted by the Hong Kong Jockey Club Equine Welfare Research Foundation and three global partners wrapped up successfully in Hong Kong on December 17. Bringing together 220 speakers and delegates from 25 countries, the event underscored a worldwide commitment to improving the safety and welfare of Thoroughbred racehorses through scientific research and collaboration.
Titled “Application of Science to the Care of Thoroughbred Racehorses,” this three-day conference aimed to close the gap between innovative research and practical use in the horse racing industry. Its goal was to ensure industry professionals have access to the latest scientific knowledge to guide policies and practices that benefit equine athletes. Attendees examined how science plays a crucial role in safeguarding racehorse welfare, exchanged groundbreaking findings and opportunities, and debated actionable plans to drive positive changes. The event was co-sponsored by the Grayson Jockey Club Research Foundation, the Horse Racing Betting Levy Commission, and the Japan Racing Association.
Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, CEO of the Hong Kong Jockey Club and Trustee of the Foundation, said that the safety and well-being of Thoroughbred racehorses have always been central to the Club’s work. The Club has developed a complete horse welfare program covering every phase of a racehorse’s life—from importation and training to racing and retirement. Beyond local efforts, the Club is dedicated to advancing equine welfare globally. Since the Foundation’s inception in 2020 with a HK$600 million donation, it has funded over HK$60 million toward 46 equine research projects worldwide.
The three-day conference marks an important milestone in international collaboration to enhance equine welfare, reflecting evolving societal expectations and changes in the horse racing environment. Engelbrecht-Bresges expressed confidence that industry professionals and researchers will collaboratively translate scientific insights into practical policies and solutions addressing shared challenges across the global horse racing community.
Throughout the event, a distinguished group of speakers challenged and inspired participants with deep insights on how science can significantly improve the lives of Thoroughbred racehorses. Andrew Harding, Executive Director of Horse Racing and Foundation Trustee, noted that since horse racing is a global sport, many welfare issues affect all racing jurisdictions. Together, attendees explored evidence-based approaches for preventing and diagnosing common health issues in Thoroughbreds, including musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, and gastric conditions, data-driven injury tracking, rulemaking, and fostering cross-disciplinary international partnerships.
Harding added that the conference offered valuable opportunities for researchers, especially early-career scientists supported by the Foundation’s grants, to share findings, connect with mentors and peers, and join a global community dedicated to racehorse welfare.
In an engaging pre-conference program, racing professionals, managers, regulators, veterinarians, and scientists were invited to experience the excitement of the Club’s flagship event, the Longines Hong Kong International Race 2025, witnessing the crowning of a new international champion on one of horse racing’s most thrilling days.
[This article was first published by the Paulick Report on December 18, 2025, in the Horse Care section.]
Fan Take: This conference represents a powerful step forward in uniting the global horse racing community around the vital cause of equine welfare, blending science and industry expertise. For fans, it promises a future where the wellbeing of racehorses is prioritized, potentially leading to safer races and healthier champions, enhancing the sport’s integrity and longevity.
