RWWA LAUNCHES WA HORSE PASSPORT

Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) has today launched the Off the Track WA (OTTWA) Passport, an initiative designed to assist in the tracking of retired thoroughbreds and standardbreds in the State.

The passport, part of the commitments outlined in the WA Racehorse Welfare Plan announced in November 2019, will work to ascertain details of the location and ownership of horses once they leave the care of the racing industry.

RWWA CEO Richard Burt said the passport formed part of RWWA’s efforts to create broader and more comprehensive traceability of WA’s retired racehorses.

“RWWA is committed to ensuring that the best levels of care are given to thoroughbreds and standardbreds throughout all stages of their lives, including retirement,” Mr Burt said.

“Since the announcement of the WA Racehorse Welfare Plan, RWWA has been working to implement the range of initiatives outlined in the plan, including the OTTWA Passport, which will assist us in addressing traceability after racing.”

“The information obtained from the passport will also provide RWWA’s programs and initiatives, which work to support horses and their owners in the transition from racing to retirement, with valuable insights.”

Owners of retired racehorses who register for an OTTWA Passport, will receive exclusive benefits, including educational material and access to OTTWA clinics and events.

From 1 January 2021, only horses with a valid passport will be eligible to attend OTTWA clinics and events.

To register for a passport, owners can visit the OTTWA website here.

The full WA Racehorse Welfare Plan can be viewed here.