A withdrawn horse is one that has been taken out of a race by its trainer or owner for any particular reason before it has the chance to compete. This is also referred to as being a ‘non-runner’ in horse racing parlance. Reasons for a horse being withdrawn from a race can vary from medical issues, to the horse not being in peak condition, or the ground being unfit for it to race on.
Why do horses get withdrawn?
There are a variety of reasons a horse may be withdrawn from a race. The most common reasons are:
- Medical issues – Horses may suffer from an injury or illness that would prevent them from running at their best, or even running at all. In these cases it is usually in the best interests of the horse to withdraw it from the race.
- Weather conditions – If the conditions are too wet, too dry, or too cold, a trainer may decide to withdraw the horse from the race rather than risk it running in unsuitable conditions and risking injury.
- Ground conditions – If the ground is too hard, too soft, or a combination of both, it can cause a horse to be withdrawn from a race. This is to ensure the horse isn’t at risk of sustaining an injury.
- Horse not in peak condition – If the horse is not in peak condition, either due to lack of training or due to a virus, then the trainer may decide to withdraw it from the race.
What happens when a horse is withdrawn from a race?
When a horse is withdrawn from a race, it is officially classed as a ‘non-runner’. This means that the horse is no longer eligible to compete in the race, and any bets placed on the horse will be refunded.
What happens to the horse’s jockey?
If a horse is withdrawn from a race, the jockey will usually be reassigned to another horse in the race. However, if the jockey has already been booked for another race on the same day, or if the horse is withdrawn too close to the start of the race, then they may be unable to take up the new ride.
Can a withdrawn horse become a runner again?
Yes, in some cases a withdrawn horse can become a runner again. If the reason for the withdrawal was due to the weather or ground conditions, then the trainer may be able to get the horse entered into the race again if the conditions improve. However, if the reason for the withdrawal was due to a medical issue then it is unlikely that the horse will be able to run in the race again.
What are the consequences for a trainer who withdraws a horse?
If a trainer withdraws a horse from a race without a valid reason, then they may be subject to disciplinary action from the relevant racing authority. The severity of the action will depend on the nature of the withdrawal, and the racing authority may also impose a fine on the trainer.
Can a withdrawn horse still be used for breeding?
Yes, a withdrawn horse can still be used for breeding. However, the horse may not be eligible to compete in any races, and so its value as a breeding animal will be reduced.
Can a withdrawn horse still compete in other forms of racing?
Yes, a withdrawn horse can still compete in other forms of racing, such as show jumping or eventing. However, the horse may not be eligible to compete in any races, and so its value as a competition animal will be reduced.
What is the difference between a withdrawn horse and a scratched horse?
A withdrawn horse is one that has been taken out of a race by its trainer or owner. A scratched horse is one that has been taken out of a race by the race stewards for any particular reason, such as being ineligible to compete, or not meeting the race criteria.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a withdrawn horse is classed as a non-runner, and is no longer eligible to compete in the race for which it was entered. The reasons for withdrawal can vary from medical issues, to ground conditions, or even the horse not being in peak condition. The consequences for a trainer who withdraws a horse without a valid reason can be severe, and the horse may not be able to compete in any races afterwards. However, a withdrawn horse can still be used for breeding and competing in other forms of racing.
It is also important to note the difference between a withdrawn horse and a scratched horse, as they are treated differently by the racing authorities.