Saracen Horse Feeds Thoroughbred Growth Forum

Saracen Horse Feeds has been working in partnership with Kentucky Equine Research, World Leaders in Equine Research and Nutrition, for over 20 years. In a series of afternoon seminars in late June, they will be presenting the findings of an international growth study, conducted by Kentucky Equine Research, relating growth to skeletal soundness and sales and racing performance. Using the world’s largest set of growth records for young thoroughbreds, Kentucky Equine Research has carried out a worldwide investigation into the relationship between the size and growth rates of foals and their racing career performance and come up with some intriguing findings. Skeletal soundness is vital for racehorses; breeders pay particular attention to radiographic abnormalities that may affect a yearling’s sale price or racing career. Data collected by KER's partners in the US, Europe and Australia have been analysed to assess whether size is significantly associated with radiographic findings, and how these measurements, alongside any regional, environmental and seasonal effects, are related to sales and racing performance.

The goals of these studies are to identify at-risk foals earlier, modify feed and management practices to reduce problems, and ultimately, raise better racehorses.

Dr. Joe Pagan is the President and Founder of Kentucky Equine Research, a company which has been heavily involved in international consultancy and product development in equine nutrition research and sports medicine since 1988. Dr. Pagan has led research on the effects of nutrition and growth for more than 30 years, and recently said of this project,

“Kentucky Equine Research works with dozens of feed manufacturers worldwide to ensure that the latest findings in equine nutrition science are utilised in real-world feeding programmes. We have worked with Saracen Horse Feeds in the U.K. for over 20 years. Saracen is an excellent example of our partnership programme at its best – we collaborate on studies, bring expertise in formulation, and provide custom software and technical service for their outstanding team of nutrition advisors. We are excited to showcase the science behind this programme through this series of thoroughbred growth forums.”

These events are open to breeders, vets, farriers and thoroughbred industry professionals. The sessions have been accredited the CPD Certification Service, which means that delegates will be eligible to qualify for hours/points by attending.

The seminars are being held in two different locations, Tuesday 21st June at the Millenium Suite at Newmarket Racecourse, Thursday 23rd June at the Owners Club at Newbury Racecourse and Wednesday 22nd June as an Online Webinar for those unable to attend in person - REGISTER NOW