Created and announced in October 2011, T.I.P. recognizes and rewards the versatility of the Thoroughbred through sponsorship of Thoroughbred classes and high point awards at sanctioned horse shows. The Jockey Club has committed $100,000 to T.I.P for the pilot program in 2012.

Representatives of horse shows were invited to apply for sponsorship with a deadline of November 30, 2011, for 2012 horse shows. In the six weeks following the announcement, 211 applications were received.

“The response to the Thoroughbred Incentive Program has been immensely gratifying,” said Kristin Hix, legal associate for The Jockey Club and the administrator of T.I.P. “This program will help showcase and reward the breed’s many talents at all levels of competition and will encourage the retraining of Thoroughbreds once they have finished their racing or breeding careers.”

In total, more than 4,000 ribbons and 500 prizes will be available for Thoroughbreds in horse shows across the country, with the winning Thoroughbreds receiving cash prizes, T.I.P. logo saddle pads and ribbons.

A new website for T.I.P., located at tjctip.com, now features a searchable calendar of events and will eventually include the names of Thoroughbreds that win T.I.P. prizes and awards.

Applications for two annual, non-competition T.I.P. awards are now available on the website, with an application deadline of June 30:

• The T.I.P. Thoroughbred of the Year Award will recognize a Thoroughbred that has excelled in a non-competitive career, such as equine-assisted therapy or police work. The award will include a $5,000 grant to the non-profit organization associated with the horse or, if not associated with a non-profit organization, to a horse-related charity chosen by The Jockey Club.
• The T.I.P. Young Rider of the Year Award will recognize a young rider, 18 or under, who owns or leases a Thoroughbred for use in 4-H, Pony Club or other activities. The winner(s) will be determined through an essay contest with a total award of $5,000 annually that can be applied to the college of their choice or to their participation in an event that furthers their involvement with horses.

The Jockey Club, founded in 1894 and dedicated to the improvement of Thoroughbred breeding and racing, is the breed registry for North American Thoroughbreds. In fulfillment of its mission, The Jockey Club provides support and leadership on a wide range of important industry initiatives and it serves the information and technology needs of owners, breeders, media, fans and farms, among others. Additional information is available at jockeyclub.com.