Stop The Blame

I am getting just a bit sick and tired of hearing everyone moan and groan about the racing industry. I own and train racehorses, but I have also had eventers, showjumpers and hacks and I can sympathise with everyone. However, whether you like it or not, the racing industry is more commercial, more televised and more of a money earner (and NO, not just for the gambler!!) than any other equestrian events. Therefore, it is going to attract more attention. I agree, regardless of discipline, this virus is equal to everyone and all that earn a living through horses should be compensated.

There is a call for the T’bred industry to start using AI. However, whilst this is a nice thought, it cannot be done due to the rule of the International Studbook. If we were to ignore this, then our horses would not be allowed to compete overseas. And YES, this affects us as well as all the other disciplines that have to compete overseas. Hence is the reason why we need to have Shuttle Stallions. People seem to forget that warmbloods and other certain breeds can import frozen semen to Australia to try and keep the breed here up to standard with the best in the world, well it is the same for T’bred breeders, only we don’t have the luxury of imported semen and have no choice but to run the shuttle program.

So it’s not an easy fix, stop the blame on the T’bred industry and wake up to the fact that we are ALL affected by this virus equally.

Regards,Kerrie Johnstone