Transfer of ownership amnesties announced for year-ending foal sales

The Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, Weatherbys and the Great British Bonus have collaborated to facilitate transfer of ownership amnesties during two foal sales next month, Goffs' British NH Breeders’ Showcase and the Tattersalls December Foal Sale.

Foals purchased during those sales by British and Irish-based owners will be eligible for free of charge transfer of ownership updates with the General Stud Book when submitted on a Defra change of ownership form, along with the paper passport, to the on-site Weatherbys office at Goffs and Tattersalls during the duration of the events.

News of new ownership, or deceased horses, are considered vital to the sector in order to preserve lifetime traceability as well as for bonuses to be paid to the correct recipient.

Victoria Murrell, equine health and welfare manager at the TBA, said: "We are grateful to Weatherbys and the sale houses for accommodating these amnesties. Traceability of our thoroughbreds is fundamental to the sector in demonstrating transparency through the administrative processes we have in place and gives greater accountability to those who are responsible for their care.

"Transfer of ownership is a legal requirement, and we hope this financially incentivised amnesty is well received."

Charlie Newton, operations manager for GBB added: "Keeping ownership details up to date is crucial for proper traceability and documentation, but GBB provides an extra reason to stay on top of it.

"If you own a GBB filly and fail to update ownership records, you risk up to £4,000 being paid to the wrong individual. Once stage two registration is complete, 10 per cent of future bonuses are allocated to the registered owner at that time, so there is a significant financial incentive to keep on top of your admin."

Additionally, passports for any deceased thoroughbreds can also be returned to the Weatherbys site office on the selected dates with a notification of the date of the death. Breeders have a legal requirement to notify the GSB within 30 days of a transfer of ownership taking place, or a fatality occurring.

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