Data at the service of transparency
The official website of the HKJC is a treasure trove for horse racing enthusiasts , showcasing unparalleled transparency to attract and retain bettors . It provides , as any dedicated website does , race cards , runners , and results . However , the HKJC goes further by offering exclusive information : detailed reports on race incidents , essential for understanding results ; precise data on horses ’ preparatory work , carefully dated and timed ; updates on recent race incidents and their consequences ; and analyses of horses ’ value trends . This is complemented by veterinary reports to ensure complete transparency . To top it all , it includes reference times for each racetrack by class and distance ! No other horse racing nation has gone this far in terms of data . This unique approach demonstrates the attention paid to bettors , treating them as key players in this ecosystem by keeping them informed and respected . In Hong Kong , the horse racing system stands out for its clarity and simplicity , offering a structure accessible to both seasoned participants and newcomers . Competitions are classified based on the performances of the horses , ranging from classes 5 to 1 , determined by their handicap ( HD ) rating . At the pinnacle are the prestigious Group races , which attract the global elite of horses , jockeys and trainers . When it comes to distances , the system is equally streamlined : most races are held over four main distances - 1,000 , 1,200 , 1,400 , and 1,600 meters . This uniformity allows bettors and spectators to easily follow the competitions and better understand the strengths at play . This clear framework , combined with the organizational excellence of the Hong Kong Jockey Club , makes Hong Kong horse racing a model of efficiency and comprehension . Lastly , with only two racetracks , bettors can easily track their horses . Horses race regularly , about every 15 days , providing perfect continuity for analyzing their performances and refining betting strategies . With its unique approach and unwavering focus on the player , Hong Kong unquestionably remains the kingdom where the gambler is king .
16.6 BILLION EUROS : THE AMOUNT OF BETTING TURNOVER FOR THE 2023 / 2024 YEAR
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STALLION ROAD
Glimpse of some moments of the Route des Etalons , unmissable breeding rendezvous of the new year in France from January 17 to 18 .
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It ’ s a crucial stage in a racehorse ’ s life , laying the groundwork much like kindergarten awakens and prepares young children for school . Breaking-in and pre-training are relatively new professions , originally the preserve of trainers . Since the mid-1990s , they ’ ve gradually developed alongside the growing number of races , serving as an essential link between sales or breeding and the arrival on training tracks . The term “ pre-trainer ” includes the prefix “ pre ,” from the Latin prae , meaning “ before ,” to indicate preparation ahead of an event or action . The breaking-in and pre-training specialist plays this fundamental role of laying the foundations and preparing young horses with respect to their development so that they feel confident , physically ready and mentally calm before moving on to more intensive work . The work program is adapted in collaboration with trainers , who take over the reins of this delicate learning process . The goal of these developers is to help each horse reach its potential based on its abilities and gradually prepare them for upcoming competitions . However , the breaking-in and pre-training field is now at a turning point in its history . As a “ young ” profession compared to the long-standing tradition of training , it has grown , evolved and professionalized rapidly . Yet , it still operates in a statistical and administrative vacuum . Much like young horses striving for growth , the profession is now fighting to shift from its status as “ young ” player to an accredited one , aiming for professional recognition , legitimacy , and responsibilities . An immersion into the heart of the action .
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01 . FIRST STEPS IN DOUBLE PAREN- THOOD
“ ONE DAY , I ASKED ANDRÉ FABRE WHAT HE EXPECTED FROM ME , AND HE REPLIED : “ THAT THE HORSES HAVE CONFIDENCE IN THEMSELVES .” I THINK THAT ’ S A VERY GOOD SUMMARY OF WHAT WE SHOULD AIM TO ACHIEVE .”
Alban Chevalier du Fau , The Channel Consignment
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13 MINUTES WITH YOU
A new immersive format produced by Clélia Moncorgé for Karisma Consulting , bringing you 13 captivating minutes . This month , the video focuses on the synergy between trainers and pre-trainers as they work together on young horses .
The first stop is on the tracks of Chantilly , where NH trainer Mickael Seror - ranked among the top five trainers in 2024 by prizemoney - adapts his methods based on the pre-training each horse received . Whether or not the horses have experience jumping , Mickael Seror carefully tailors their training to prepare them for the upcoming season . “ It ’ s important to do things right from the start . Our job is to teach them how to give their maximum physical effort and enjoy it . Just like someone who loves running , the more they run , the more they want to run . It ’ s the same mindset .” The journey continues in the Anjou region , with a second immersion at Alban Chevalier du Fau ’ s private stables , dedicated to breaking-in , pre-training , breeding , rehabilitation of racehorses and sales prep . “ My mission is to have physically fit horses ready for intensive training , but most importantly , horses that are mentally well . Giving them self-confidence is a great summary of our job , ensuring they ’ re happy to work .”
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ÉCURIE DE GRENOUX
To the west of Laval , in Mayenne , the Écurie de Grenoux has specialized in breaking-in and pre-training horses . Over the past twelve years , it has earned the trust of renowned owners , and its 80 stalls are fully booked . Its secret ? Jacques Brel , the compatriot of Audrey de Clerck , sang it best : “ Love ,“ quite simply .
“ WE ’ RE POLISHING ROUGH DIAMONDS BEFORE TRAINERS TAKE OVER .” Audrey de Clerck .
Five runners in the 2021 Gr . 1 Prix de Diane 2021 , 24 yearlings sourced at the 2019 ARQANA August Yearling Sale , and numerous top horses such as Sealiway , Kenway , Rougir , Sweet Lady , Angel Bleu and Sunway … Previously associated with Michel Dréan , Audrey de Clerck quickly made a name for herself . By transforming a pony-club into a breaking-in and pre-training center , the Écurie de Grenoux quickly scaled up . The facility now spans 30 hectares , features a 1,200-meter track with a gentle incline , two 400-meter straight lines , and 80 stalls — all operating under two key principles : “ kindness and calm .“
Galorama. Do you follow the results of your graduates ?
Audrey de Clerck. Yes , as much as possible . It ’ s important to see how they turn out . We meet them when they ’ re young and a bit lost . There ’ s always a desire to compare their results with our initial impressions . About 75 % of the time , our instincts are proven right . You quickly sense if a horse will become a racehorse or just manage to “ earn its keep .“ It ’ s harder with the so-called “ useful ” horses ; you don ’ t know if they ’ ll have a rating of 25 or 35 .
G. Can you identify future stars right away ?
A.d.C. They don’t respond like the others. They exude a certain confidence, as if they’ve already lived another life. They understand things faster—almost as if they’re teaching you. They already have an exceptional way of moving, using their bodies naturally and efficiently. I’ve been fortunate to work with several Group 1 horses, including five runners in the Prix de Diane 2021.
G. Your operation seems to have taken off quickly.
A.d.C. Our first major clients, like Gousserie Racing and the agent
Paul Nataf, gave us a great start. Kenway brought us our first Group 1
winner. Then came Sealiway, Rougir, Sweet Lady, Angel Bleu, and Sunway.
Usually, you encounter one horse of this caliber in a lifetime. It’s incredible. Our 80 stalls are full, with trainers like Pia Brandt—who I work with often—Christophe Ferland, and Francis-Henri Graffard, and owners
like Gousserie Racing and Haras de Colleville placing their trust in us.
About 95% of the horses we handle are flat racers. I’m lucky to have an
amazing team. I owe as much to them as I do to the owners who trust me.
G. What’s the “Grenoux method“?
A.d.C. I prefer to call it a way of doing things. The key words are: “kindness, kindness, and calm.“ We never shout at a horse, and we never use a whip. What they don’t understand today, they’ll understand tomorrow. Horses are extremely sensitive animals that think in terms of comfort and discomfort . If they aren ’ t mentally sound , they ’ ll have weaknesses and struggle emotionally .
G. Your work is a bit like running a preschool , isn ’ t it ?
A.d.C. G. How does breaking-in technically work?
A.d.C. It takes about two months to do a proper job: one month for
breaking-in and another month before heading to the track, though
it’s often a bit less. It all depends on the horse. First, we let them
settle for 2-3 days to decompress. Transitioning from pasture to stall is
a major lifestyle change. Then comes “desensitization.“ Using a stick or
lunge, we move around them—on their left, right, above their head,
and between their legs—to see how they react. We tighten the lunge
to teach them to yield to pressure. Once they’re secure, we introduce
the saddle: jumping alongside them and gently mounting like a “sack
of potatoes.“ From there, teaching them to accept the bit becomes
easier. Next, they go to the arena, where they learn the three gaits and
how to turn and stop independently.
G. And then they move to the track?
A.d.C. Yes, we start with very light sessions: 1,200 meters -walking,
trotting, and cantering for 4-5 days to make riding a pleasant experience . Then , we let them relax for 4-5 days in the arena and have them checked by the dentist . Afterward , they return to the track , and we gradually build their cardio .
G. That ’ s when pre-training begins , right ?
A.d.c. Exactly . Initially , it ’ s all about building a base , with very little galloping . A young horse needs to learn to move its shoulders forward to elevate its withers and extend its stride . We let them find their rhythm with relaxed , steady galloping strides — not fast . Then we increase the cardio by galloping 4,500 meters in a relaxed rhythm , ensuring they don ’ t run out of breath . Speed comes later . The horse must learn to accelerate while staying balanced and breathing properly . We also teach them to switch leads and take “ breathers .“ Finally , we transition to 400-meter sprints , keeping them focused and ready for the next step .
G. Do you attend the races ?
A.d.c. No , I prefer to stay behind the scenes . My domain is more about the sales . But I know my place , I never take a cut .
G. How do you view your profession ?
A.d.c. Unfortunately , we ’ re invisible to the authorities . We ’ re not considered key players in racing , even though we deliver horses ready to go . We can ’ t remain a “ new profession “ forever — it ’ s been 30 years !
G. Do you work with Arabian horses too ?
A.d.c. Yes , they ’ re like princesses ! ( laughs ) They ’ re incredibly affectionate and cuddly but also a bit dramatic , like “ divas .“ I have quite a few that are sent to Dubai and Qatar . This year , Sheikh Mansour entrusted me with twelve for the first time .
“ THEY ALREADY EXUDE CONFIDENCE AND GIVE THE IMPRESSION OF HAVING LIVED ANOTHER LIFE . THEY UNDERSTAND FASTER . IT ALMOST FEELS LIKE THEY ARE THE ONES TEACHING YOU THINGS …”
Audrey de Clerck .
“ WE GIVE THEM MAXIMUM CONFIDENCE IN THEMSELVES BY MAKING THEM BELIEVE THEY ARE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL , THE STRONGEST .”
Audrey de Clerck .
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ÉCURIE PRÉVOST-BARATTE
“ I prefer talking about education rather than breaking-in , because this term highlights the importance of creating a bond with young horses so they develop in the right direction . Each stage must be understood before it ’ s validated . There ’ s no such thing as being behind with horses .” Philip Prévost-Baratte has been a key figure in breaking-in and pre-training since establishing his business in 2005 . Laying the foundation for a successful racing career takes time , observation and precision , but the progress made is substantial . Communication with owners has become one of his competitive advantages . “ What I wanted was to have horses that were in excellent working condition and to provide them with the best infrastructure for optimal development . Delivering a strong , mentally sound horse is what matters most .”
“ WHAT MATTERS IS DELIVERING A HORSE THAT IS STRONG AND MENTALLY SERNE .E”
Philip Prévost-Baratte
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ÉCURIES DIANE
This year , Ecurie Diane celebrates 25 years dedicated to breaking-in and pre-training young athletes and sets among the pioneers in the field . “ We adapt to each horse according to its needs , at every level — whether it ’ s nutrition , mental well-being , training , or veterinary care protocols . We try to provide a tailored approach for each individual . We , as humans , adapt around them to move in the right direction and achieve our goal of preparing them for training .” This long-term well-being philosophy , which founder Diane Lybeck has always championed , applies not only to the horses but also to the staff and the environment . The stable has notably been awarded the EquuRes label .
“ WE , AS HUMANS , ADAPT AROUND THEM TO MOVE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION AND ACHIEVE OUR GOAL OF SENDING THEM INTO TRAINING .”
Diane Lybeck
ÉCURIE DE LA DENTELLE
“ We compare ourselves a bit to a kindergarten for horses — we have to teach them how to read and write in a relatively short amount of time .“ After gaining experience in France and internationally , Pauline Bottin and Nicolas Martineau founded Ecurie de la Dentelle in 2018 . Since then , they have broken-in and pre-trained over 800 horses . Their professional satisfaction comes from “ taking a raw juvenile and sending it off ready to go .” This reflects an educational process based on respect for the horse , taking the time to tailor their approach and ensuring it aligns with the expectations of the trainers .
“ WE COMPARE OURSELVES A BIT TO A HORSE ’ S KINDERGARTEN ; WE HAVE TO TEACH THEM TO READ AND WRITE IN A FAIRLY SHORT TIME .”
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THE BLONDEAU METHOD
Focused on a “ relationship of trust “ between humans and horses , the Blondeau method is widespread in training centers and remains the written reference on the subject . An interview with its author , Nicolas Blondeau .
Galorama. What are the main characteristics of horses ?
Nicolas Blondeau. They are social animals whose organization is based on two fundamental types of relationships : hierarchy and affiliative bonds . They are true negotiators in their interactions , capable of forming strong and lasting emotional bonds . Horses are beings of exceptional sensitivity , with a structured intellect and great adaptability .
G. Are horses made to work ?
N.B. The foundation of their relationship with humans lies in having a task to fulfill . Breaking this working relationship with horses would lead to their disappearance . They are capable of engaging in cooperative relationships , forming strong bonds with humans and the work they perform . As long as they understand what is expected of them and find motivation , work becomes a structuring element of their individuality .
G. What is the philosophy of the Blondeau method , and what does it involve ?
N.B. It promotes a relationship of trust and cooperation between humans and horses , regardless of the discipline . By analyzing both the mental and physical aspects of each horse , it preserves their potential and ensures lasting learning . The method involves entering directly into the horse ’ s education , addressing them as one would a person . The goal is to have the horse fully participate in everything they are asked to do . It is applicable to all horses , as it takes into account each individual ’ s personality at every stage .
G. What are the different stages of training according to your method ?
N.B. The Blondeau method involves 20 progressive stages , allowing the foal to approach each new situation with confidence . Among these essential steps are : the first handling sessions inside the stall , loading and unloading from a van , the first mounting session inside the stall , and the first mounted steps taken outside the stall .
G. What must be done and what should be avoided with a horse ?
N.B. First , make the horse feel confident . One should not try to push them from behind to initiate movement . Instead , apply the Baucherian approach , which involves encouraging forward motion by using a stick on the forehand . The only real challenge for the horse is overcoming the fear of humans or what they might ask . The goal is to become their primary point of reference as early as possible . It is also essential not to sedate a horse , as a sedated animal cannot learn anything .
G. You train flat racing , trotting , and sport horses — how does your approach differ ?
N.B. It doesn ’ t .
G. How many people do you train on average ?
N.B. Between one-day corporate training sessions and year-long apprenticeships , about 230 people per year .
G. What does the CHEVALDUC research program involve , and what is its current status ?
N.B. Led by Jocelyne Porcher ( INRAE ) in partnership with the Normandy region , it explored the following question : “ Is breaking in a young horse a form of professional training ?” The Blondeau School was selected as an observation site . The study involved a panel of 100 young horses , both male and female , interacting with men and women , providing a wealth of statistical data . The results highlighted the fundamental role of the voice in providing emotional support for the horse during the significant transformations involved in the training process . This program has led to numerous scientific publications .
“ THEY ARE TRUE NEGOTIATORS IN THEIR INTERACTIONS , CAPABLE OF FORGING STRONG AND LASTING EMOTIONAL BONDS .”
Nicolas Blondeau
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“ OUR ACTIVITY IS A PROFESSION IN ITS OWN RIGHT ; IT ’ S TIME FOR IT TO BE RECOGNIZED .”
David Lumet
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ÉCURIE DE LA RIDAUDIÈRE
Former show-jumping rider David Lumet , alongside Yann Poirier , was one of the pioneers of breaking-in and pre-training horses in France as early as the 1990s . For the past ten years , he has presided over the Association France Débourrage ( AFD ), the leading body of the profession . Despite its now essential role , this profession continues to evolve in an institutional “ no man ’ s land .“ Following in the footsteps of his predecessor , the head of the Écurie de la Ridaudière near Angers is once again making his voice heard . Hitting the mark or falling flat ?
Galorama. You are one of the pioneers -how did this activity took off?
David Lumet. Together with the late Yann Poirier , we were among the first to start . I came from show jumping and met Éric Leray , who asked me to break-in two horses . Seeing the results , a month later , he gave me fourteen more . We sent people to train under Philippe Peltier . The turning point came when the number of races increased : trainers had less and less time to break-in horses themselves , so they turned to us , and the business grew from there .
G. Has the method for breaking-in and pre-training horses changed much over time ?
D.L. Some trainers didn ’ t want the horses to jump , while others insisted on it . We adapted . Today , the expectation is to prepare them even further . Previously , we prepared them to about 60 %; now it ’ s closer to 80-85 %. But you have to know your limits — not to push them too hard . We are also given more time . Before , contracts lasted a month . Now , for some horses , it can stretch to four months . We ’ re also asked to deliver them in prime condition . We ’ ve really evolved the profession .
G. A profession that , as you often remind us , is slow to gain official recognition .
D.L. Our activity is a profession in its own right , and it is high time it is recognized . We ’ re asking to be acknowledged so we can have the same obligations and benefits as other professions - nothing more , nothing less . Currently , there is a glaring lack of regulation — it ’ s unacceptable ! During breaking-in and pre-training , there is no traceability whatsoever . What would happen in the event of an epidemic ? I ’ m continuing the fight that Yann Poirier began twenty years ago . But the authorities don ’ t want to tackle the issue seriously . I ’ ve just sent horses to prominent trainers like Marcel Rolland , Macaire , Fouin , and Chaillé-Chaillé . These aren ’ t small names . Today , nearly all horses go through pre-training ; it ’ s no longer just 30 % like it used to be .
G. What qualifications are needed for this job ?
D.L. None . You could be a dentist , veterinarian , journalist - it doesn ’ t matter ; our profession isn ’ t officially recognized . And the problem is , this opens the door to anything and everything . You see people offering their services as pre-trainers for € 15 a day instead of the standard € 33-34 . Ideally , we ’ d have a specific license . We ’ re not asking for a trainer ’ s license , it ’ s not the same job . Ours requires training , not necessarily a diploma . It ’ s vital and just common sense to have knowledge about soil conditions , hygiene , and so on . Personally , I have € 1 million in turnover , 14 employees , I run a proper business ! Meanwhile , many of my colleagues are changing professions or shutting down . We can ’ t even enforce payment for outstanding invoices .
G. You seem very frustrated …
D.L. We support the members of our association . But how can we , legally , be prohibited from having horses race , when we ’ re not even officially recognized ? I ’ m calling on any lawyer who would like to explore this issue . The authorities just sweep it under the rug . And yet , between breeding and training , we ’ ve become a critical link in the chain : 95 % of horses today go through a pre-training center . We deliver them fully prepared .
G. Do all breaking-in and pre-training professionals use the same methods ?
D.L. 70 % of my colleagues do excellent work . After that , just like in racing , methods vary . I know trainers in the Top 5 who train in completely different ways . Some cover kilometers and kilometers , 6,000 meters , while others gallop 1,200 meters daily . In our profession , the Blondeau method is a benchmark . He had the merit of developing a method and putting it in writing — a kind of roadmap . But the underlying issue is that money is always the driving force . Some people are tempted to cut corners when they have fourteen horses to handle in one day .
G. How many colleagues do you estimate there are in France ?
D.L. That ’ s a great question . About 40 are easily identifiable ; maybe there are a hundred of us . The problem is , we don ’ t really know .
G. And you , how do you feel about your work ?
D.L. Passionate . I would never in my life choose to be a trainer . Every morning , I wake up at 5 a . m ., and I ’ m the happiest man alive . The heart of our job is the horse ’ s mindset - making them enjoy their work , play like a child , and want to push themselves . I remember Princesse d ’ Anjou , she had an incredible fighting spirit !
“ WE ASK TO BE RECOGNIZED FOR HAVING THE SAME CONSTRAINTS AND THE SAME BENEFITS AS OTHER PROFESSIONS .”
David Lumet
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ACCREDITATION : LET ’ S TALK ABOUT IT
What would be the benefit of an accreditation by France Galop for breaking-in and pre-training ? Three professionals in the field respond .
“ IF WE WANT TO HAVE RIGHTS , WE EARN THEM BY FULFILLING OUR DUTIES .”
Philip Prévost-Baratte
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FIGURES & STATISTICS
HOW MANY HORSES ARE BROKEN-IN AND PRE-TRAINED ANNUALLY ?
No matter how thoroughly we search or how many inquiries we make to organizations such as France Galop , Le Trot , IFCE , or Equiressources , breaking-in and pre-training seem to consistently escape detection . No statistics exist . As a result , it ’ s impossible to measure exactly how many horses undergo breaking-in and pre-training each year , except by extrapolating from the commonly accepted statistic that 95 % of horses now go through these two crucial stages of development .
According to the latest key figures from the ECUS ( IFCE ’ s equine observatory ), released on January 31 , within a French equine population of 1,005 million animals and 26,700 specialized businesses , 6,488 thoroughbreds were born in 2023 ( a 5 % decrease ): 5,412 thoroughbreds and 1,076 AQPS ( Autre Que Pur-Sang or non-thoroughbred racehorses ). Meanwhile , 8,992 trotters were registered last year , alongside 16,595 newborn horses and ponies for sport and leisure . Based on these figures — and assuming that racehorses are typically broken-in between 12 and 18 months of age - we can estimate that 5,141 thoroughbreds ( let ’ s round this number to 5,000 ) will pass through the hands of breaking-in and pre-training specialists in 2025 . Similarly , 8,542 trotters ( rounded to 8,500 ) are expected to undergo the same preparation . The only directly related statistic available is found in the “ Labor Market “ section . Of the 228 job offers in the breeding sector , 60 are specifically for riders specializing in breaking-in and pre-training . This is by far the most promising sector , with 94 % of these positions leading to permanent contracts ( CDI ).
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FRANCE GALOP AND LE TROT
The profession of breaking-in and pre-training specialists seeks recognition — Where does the issue stand ?
France Galop : The principle of recognizing breaking-in and pre-training has been a topic of discussion for several years . So far , no consensus has been reached on the principles or methods of recognition due to the complexity of implementation . One promising avenue would involve referencing breaking-in and pre-training actors in the decree of May 5 , 1997 , which governs the organization of horse racing , in the same way as owners , trainers and jockeys are referenced . This option would acknowledge the profession in an official government text , harmonize its social and fiscal regulations and ensure the integrity of those practicing the profession through oversight by the SCCJ ( Service Central des Courses et Jeux ). However , this option requires a jointagreement between the trotting and galloping sectors and the approval of the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Agriculture before any modification can be made to the 1997 decree . This decree follows a specific formal process , as it requires the approval of the Conseil d ’ État ( Council of State ).
In Trotting , “ Most breaking-in and pre-training specialists are already trainers ”
The situation is quite different in trotting . “ We have fewer structures compared to the galloping sector ,” comments Stéphane Meunier , president of the union for trotting trainers , drivers , and jockeys ( SEDJ ). “ In our case , most breaker and pre-trainer are already trainers , meaning that during this period , the horses are included in the regular training rosters .” Renowned trainers such as Sébastien Guarato , Thierry Duvaldestin or Jean-Michel Bazire regularly rely on fellow breakers . In south of France , for example , trainers like Yannick- Alain Briand or Romuald Mourice send all their horses to Normandy for breaking-in . Depending on the arrangement , horses return to their trainers either just broken-in or already pre-trained . Between a sale and qualification , the process typically takes around eight months . Breaking-in itself lasts about a month and is similar to the process used in galloping . Pre-training , however , is more closely aligned with the techniques used in National-Hunt training . “ It ’ s very different from galloping , which is a natural gait . Trotting requires a lot of mechanical work , which can take six months before the horses are ready for qualification .” Much like preparation for sales , this activity is “ emerging .” “ But the issue of formal recognition isn ’ t really a pressing concern for us ,” Meunier adds . “ We say : why not ? But we ’ ve already integrated this activity as an annex in our collective bargaining agreements .”