Equine Welfare
The horse is the centre of focus at the JCSA. Their welfare and care is a priority for jockeys, trainers, veterinarians and all our staff. Our goal is to continually review, research and refine initiatives that ensure each and every horse receives the standard of care they deserve.
The JCSA works tirelessly to ensure that over 4000 horses in training at any one time enjoy an excellent level of care and quality of life while beyond our boundaries, the JCSA supports the objectives of the Saudi Equestrian Authority (SEA), tasked to set high standards of equine care for all horses in the Kingdom, at all stages of their life.
The horseracing jurisdiction here in Saudi Arabia is a global contributor to the sport, generating countless opportunities for horses and people alike. The JCSA has set up and operates a state-of-the-art veterinary facility which offers medical care at King Abdulaziz Racecourse for the equine community beyond horseracing while also training new generations of professionals. It continues to invest in equine veterinary research, science, and education.
The Technical Committee of the JCSA constantly oversees and monitors all veterinary and welfare operations defined by the strategy.
- HRH Prince Abdullah Bin Khalid Al Saud
- Mrs Halah Saleh
- Mr Paul Barton
- Mr Salem Bin Mahfouz
- Dr. Francesca Compostella DVM, MRCVS, MSc – Veterinary and Welfare Lead
- Dr. David Sykes DVM, MRCVS – Antidoping Lead
- Mr Lonny T. Powell
- Mr Tom Ryan
The main pillars on which the JCSA bases its welfare initiatives are:
- Providing a safe environment for horses to train and race in, which ensures longevity and satisfaction
- Ensuring all participants uphold a duty of care for the racehorses they are involved with
- Supporting the national welfare policy as outlined by SEA, in particular with regards to the care of horses used in the sport
- Advancing industry and educational initiatives which improve overall standards of equine care and community understanding