French retraining of racehorses charity launches Arc-based initiative

French racing's retraining charity, Au-Dela Des Pistes, is hoping to raise significant funds through support of a new initiative at Longchamp next weekend, the Arc Promise.

An idea initially pioneered at the Breeders' Cup, owners, trainers, breeders and jockeys with a runner on the two biggest days in the French calendar are invited to pledge a small part of any prize-money they might earn to support the work of ADDP.

Founded in 2016, ADDP is charged with accrediting suitable professional establishments and placing racehorses for either retraining in another equestrian discipline or preparing them for a life of quiet retirement.

"It’s a fantastic idea and we are very grateful," said ADDP president Aliette Forien. "Mickael Barzalona has already volunteered a small part of his winnings from the weekend and I think all such gestures are great shows of solidarity."

Mickael Barzalona has already pledged a percentage of his earnings over Arc weekend to ADDP's Arc PromiseCredit: Patrick McCann

While the receipts of the PMU have kept French racing's finances in better shape than many of its European counterparts, owners and trainers at many levels of the sport have still struggled during the coronavirus pandemic, making greater demands than ever on ADDP.

"We have more and more horses to place and so we need to find extra money, as we absolutely will not leave any horse behind," said Forien. "We take every one and place them with suitable professionals for retraining and rehabilitation. There is always more demand in difficult years and that is certainly the case this year.

"It is such a generous gesture by racing professionals and also by France Galop, it is a remarkable initiative. Every professional that comes to the Arc will be making a contribution to Au-Dela Des Pistes."

France Galop has also committed to ADDP revenue from all ticket sales to its members on Arc day, although with capacity now reduced from 5,000 to 1,000 that will undoubtedly raise less money than initially hoped for.

The Arc Promise subscription form

Did you know you can bet via the Racing Post mobile app/website? Simply sign in with your favourite bookmaker via the Accounts button and then bet direct from our racecards