Henrietta Knight to judge retrained racehorse challenge at Cheltenham

Henrietta Knight is to be the style judge at the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) racing to hunting challenge later this month at Cheltenham.

Henrietta, who famously trained Gold Cup hero Best Mate, will be returning to the Gloucestershire track, but this time in the role of a judge.

Already a showing judge and a Connemara breeder, she is sure to have a sharp eye for style.

“Thoroughbred horses are invariably a joy to ride and train. Over the years they have won medals, in many different disciplines at Olympic Games. Nowadays, it is great to see so much interest in the retrained racehorse series,” said Henrietta.

“Classes at all the major shows continue to well-filled and many riders are finding ex-racehorses a pleasure to produce.

“The jumping classes are proving extremely popular and are a credit to the RoR. It is wonderful to know that there are more outlets for racehorses when they come out of full training. It provides a great boost to the industry and demonstrates to racehorse owners that there is another life for their horses after racing.”

The RoR Meriel Tufnell racing to hunting challenge is now in its third year and is increasing in popularity. Entries are still open but must be in by Monday (10 November).

The competition will take place on Sunday 16 November before racing at Cheltenham. Commentator Mike Tucker will build the course, which will include cross-country fences already on the track, as well as additional obstacles such as a gate to open and shut.

Riders will also have to take a glass of port from a tray. As well as the style points there is also a timed section.

Di Arbuthnot of the charity said: “This is really what the RoR is all about — life after racing, and this is a fantastic day, which everyone enjoys taking part in as well as watching.”

Ian Renton of Jockey Club Racecourses added: “We are delighted the challenge is returning to Cheltenham. It is great to see some of the retired racehorses competing in their new skills at the home of jump racing”.

Each entry costs £22.50.

More information here

To see what other ex-racehorses are up to in retirement, don’t miss H&H’s National Hunt special, out tomorrow (Thursday 6 November).

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