The International Federation of Thoroughbred Breeders has concluded what it calls the highly successful “ITBF 2024 Conference” held over five days in Japan.
The 70 ITBF attendees, from 21 of the 27 member countries on six continents, received outstanding hospitality from hosts JBBA (Japan Blood Horse Breeders Association).
The program begins with attending the Yushun Himba (Japan Oak Tree Association) [G1]) in Tokyo, before all delegates were flown to Hokkaido for a two-day tour. A variety of world-class stallions were on display at the Shadai Stud Station (incl Feces ), Darley Japan and JBBA Shizunai Stud Station, as well as a tour to see the exceptional facilities at JRA’s Hidaka Research and Training Center.
Upon returning to Tokyo, there followed two days of conferences. A half-day veterinary meeting plus a full-day general meeting provided two far-reaching agendas, covering topics of worldwide importance and interest—all all provide opportunities for questions and debate. The plenary veterinary lecture presented by the host nation educated the audience about the important differences between gene therapy, gene doping, and genetic manipulation—and the future implications of it all.
The presidents of the ITBF, Kirsten Rausing, and the International Federation of Horseracing Governing Bodies, Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, shared their views on enhancing the thoroughbred industry through collaborative working. Engelbrecht-Bresges further presented horse welfare as the foundation of a socially responsible sport. Other presentations include environmental sustainability in horse breeding from both Northern and Southern Hemisphere perspectives; the impact of racetrack closures in the United States; livestock farming in Latin America – past, present and future; horse breeding and racing—French system, as well as other international contributions.
At the congress, ITBF members voted unanimously to continue firmly opposing the use of all artificial breeding methods (identified and undetermined).
The perfect welcome and farewell dinner with honored guests from the JBBA, JRA (Japan Racing Association), NAR (National Racing Association), MAFF and the Irish Ambassador to Japan, brought giving all a great opportunity to network professionally around the world.
ITBF will continue to work to promote and protect the interests of purebred breeders worldwide. Its next congress will be held in France in 2026.
This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.
