Horse welfare at the forefront as the National Horseracing Authority and NSPCA hold constructive talks

Gloria Kwenaite, Nhlanhla Moshomo

The National Horseracing Authority (NHA) and the National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) met on 10 September 2025 to discuss concerns around horse welfare in South Africa’s racing industry.

The meeting followed a letter from the NSPCA highlighting several points of concern, including the participation of two-year-old horses in races, the use of tongue-ties, the application of the crop, and the regulation of performance-enhancing medications.

The NSPCA has continuously reaffirmed its intention to end animal racing in SA, stating that “(racing) is highly lucrative to human patrons and is often commercialised for financial gain but extremely detrimental to the welfare of animals.” The NSPCA said on the day of the racing event, animals may appear to be in pristine conditions. However, it is what happens before and after these races and how their welfare is compromised that is most concerning. Dogs, pigeons, and horses are just some of the animals used for competitive racing.

The NHA, which regulates horse racing in South Africa, disputes the claim that the sport is abusive. It argues that strong measures are in place to protect the horses during training and on race day, and cites incidents where trainers and jockeys have been fined for rule infringements, such as exceeding the permissible number of strikes with the crop during a race.

“We are grateful that the NSPCA is open-minded to understanding the horse racing industry and to working with industry stakeholders to protect the welfare of the horses. This can only strengthen the regulatory framework for the industry,” said NHA CEO Vee Moodley.

The NHA also emphasised its international standing, noting that it is a full member of the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA), a member of the Asian Racing Federation (ARF), and a signatory to the International Agreement on Breeding, Racing, and Wagering (IABRW).

Charles Savage, Chairman of 4Racing, said the well-being of horses is at the heart of the sport. “Every day, thousands of owners, trainers, grooms, and veterinarians devote themselves to ensuring these animals receive world-class care, often exceeding international standards. Our horses are more than athletes, they are family, and their health, happiness, and dignity remain our highest priority,” Savage said.

Horse trainer and Chairman of the South African National Trainers Association (SANTA), Tony Rivalland, also addressed concerns about horse welfare and industry practices.

“The suggestion that racehorses are abused is simply not true. This is a highly regulated, passionately run industry where horses receive exceptional care. Scientific evidence shows that starting training early supports stronger musculoskeletal development and longer, healthier careers. Practices like tongue ties are not cruel, they are internationally recognised tools that aid breathing and improve safety. The real welfare risks lie in informal, unregulated racing, which falls outside the authority of the NHA,” Rivalland said.

Dr Matthew Bawden, Chief Veterinarian of the NHA, added “Our responsibility is to ensure that racehorses are cared for according to the highest veterinary and welfare standards. Every regulatory decision we take, from vaccination rules to prohibited substances, is guided by science and the welfare of the horse above all else.”

The discussion also covered the use of the crop and compliance under NHA Rule 58.10.2. The NSPCA suggested stricter enforcement for jockeys who exceeded strike limits, while the NHA outlined its processes for addressing infractions.

On the issue of medication control, the NHA detailed its guidelines for classification of prohibited substances, which carry strict sanctions for violations, ranging from fines of R17,000 to R500,000 and suspensions of the trainer for up to a year, depending on the severity of the offence.

Both organisations agreed to continue dialogue, with the NSPCA invited to participate in the NHA’s upcoming Rules Committee Meeting later this year, providing an opportunity to deliberate with industry stakeholders.

“This collaborative approach will foster a better understanding of the NHA rules and processes and build a stronger working relationship going forward,” Moodley said.

While the NSPCA maintains its opposition to any form of animal racing in principal, both parties committed to working together to safeguard the welfare of racehorses in South Africa.

Editor’s Note: Nhlanhla Moshomo is a freelance media practitioner.

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