The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) has opened applications for the 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, sponsored by Thoroughbred Charities of America, with a deadline of January 23, 2026. This event, North America’s largest and most lucrative retraining competition for recently retired Thoroughbred racehorses and former broodmares, will take place on July 10, 2026, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.
The Thoroughbred Makeover is RRP’s premier event aimed at encouraging more equestrians to work with Thoroughbreds while highlighting the breed’s athleticism, trainability, and versatility. Offering $139,000 in prize money, the competition will feature hundreds of Thoroughbreds competing across one or two of ten different equestrian sports. Alongside the competition, the event will host a national symposium that includes vendor fairs, horse sales, seminars, demonstrations, networking, social events, clinics, and other activities planned throughout 2026.
Kirsten Green, RRP’s Executive Director, emphasized the event’s role in North America’s aftercare system for retired racehorses, stating that the Thoroughbred Makeover helps create opportunities for riders and showcases the breed’s potential beyond racing. Approved trainers will be announced on February 17, 2026, and Thoroughbreds will be available for trainers to compete with. The event welcomes professionals, amateurs, juniors, and teams. To be eligible, horses must have raced or had a timed workout after July 1, 2024, not have competed in any other sport before December 1, 2025, and have been retrained fewer than 15 times before the same date. Full rules and eligibility details are available in the 2026 event rulebook.
Interested jockeys can start their application process now by logging into RRP.org.
Fan Take: This announcement highlights a vital pathway for retired racehorses to find new careers, reinforcing the value and versatility of the Thoroughbred breed beyond the racetrack. For horse racing fans, it’s a hopeful sign that the sport is investing in the future well-being of its athletes while expanding opportunities for riders and enthusiasts alike.
