To showcase Thoroughbreds that are not competing in shows but are still successful in a second career as recreational mounts, The Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program (T.I.P.) today announced the Thoroughbred Recreational Riding Incentive Program.

The program is designed for Thoroughbred owners who spend most of their time outside of the show ring, whether on trails (including competitive trail rides), endurance rides, or even driving.

“Many off-track Thoroughbreds and owners are more suited to recreational riding than to showing,” said Kristin Leshney, T.I.P. coordinator. “The Thoroughbred Recreational Riding Incentive Program enables recreational riders to be rewarded for choosing Thoroughbreds.”

Multiple awards are offered depending on the number of hours spent riding or driving, ranging from a T.I.P. patch for 25 hours to a T.I.P. fleece jacket for 10,000 hours. To receive awards, riders must record their riding time in one-hour increments, rounding down to the whole hour. Arena riding, lessons, and show hours are not eligible for awards.

“We are excited to have more Thoroughbreds becoming part of the T.I.P. program and gaining recognition for their diversity as equine partners,” Leshney said.

For purposes of eligibility for Thoroughbred Recreational Riding Incentive Program, a “Thoroughbred” is defined as any horse that has been registered with The Jockey Club or a foreign Thoroughbred stud book recognized by The Jockey Club. All horses must have a T.I.P. number with the correct rider listed.

More information about the Thoroughbred Recreational Riding Incentive Program can be found on the T.I.P. website at tjctip.com.

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, performance awards, and non-competition awards. Additional information about T.I.P. is available at tjctip.com and on the T.I.P. Facebook page at facebook.com/tjctip.