Western Daily Press (Saturday)
Racehorses given their own Christmas jump-er
ASOMERSET racehorse trainer has gone to extreme lengths to ensure his horses are thoroughly prepared for their festive engagements, by wrapping one of his practice fences in brightly coloured Christmas paper.
Jeremy Scott, who trains at Holworthy Farm in Brompton Regis, was helping to promote the upcoming Boxing Day fixture at Wincanton Racecourse.
Geldings Native Robin and Garrane, ridden by Nick Scholfield and Emily Jones respectively, flew over the reindeer-patterned obstacles in preparation for their next appearances, while jockey silks were ditched for Christmas jumpers and festive hat covers.
We did think they’d look at it, think it was the most extraordinary thing and refuse to jump
JEREMY SCOTT
Mr Scott said: “We did think they’d look at it, think it was the most extraordinary thing and refuse to jump, but they jumped straight over it and didn’t bat an eyelid.”
The novel workout follows recent research by the University of Exeter which found that other colours besides orange, which is currently used on hurdle frames and fence take-off boards and guard rails, could maximise visibility, therefore enhancing the welfare and safety of the horses and their jockeys by reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
As a result of the research, a recommendation has been approved by the sport’s racecourse committee that a phased trial should be carried out using fluorescent yellow for all hurdles and guard rails and fluorescent white for take-off boards at fences.
Professor Martin Stevens, chair in sensory and evolutionary ecology for the University of Exeter, said: “Understanding how animals see the world, and using cutting-edge tools to investigate this, has a valuable role to play in guiding the safety and welfare of animals and humans in a variety of contexts.
“This project demonstrates how modern science can look to have widespread positive implications in human society and our interactions with animals.”
Mr Scott added: “Perhaps all fences should be wrapped on Boxing Day! It would look fantastic and all the horses would jump incredibly well!”
Seven races make up the card at Wincanton’s Boxing Day meeting, which include the long-standing The Jockey Club Lord Stalbridge Memorial Chase, with several much-loved staying chasers likely to be in the line-up.
Gates open at 10.30am on the day, with the first race off at 12.20pm. Advanced tickets are available from £18, or free for those aged 17 and under. All tickets booked in advance for Wincanton’s Boxing Day meeting will be entered into a draw to win two tickets to the 2019 Cheltenham Festival, presented by Magners.