William Fox-Pitt to Lead Retraining of Racehorses Masterclass at London International Horse Show
Former world No.1 event rider William Fox-Pitt will lead a new Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) Masterclass at the London International Horse Show this December, showcasing the versatility and potential of Thoroughbreds after racing.
Taking place on Sunday 20 December in the Thomas Family London Arena, the session will bring together riders and former racehorses from different backgrounds to demonstrate the opportunities available to horses transitioning from the racecourse to new equestrian careers.
Fox-Pitt, who has enjoyed an illustrious career at the highest level of eventing, will share his training knowledge and experience, offering practical advice and insight into developing former racehorses for life beyond the track.
The Masterclass will feature TV presenter and former model Rosie Turner, who will ride an ex-racehorse specially sourced by RoR, alongside successful former racehorse competitors Emily Ware and Robyn Gray.
William Fox-Pitt to Share His Expertise
Fox-Pitt is a long-standing advocate for the versatility of Thoroughbreds and the importance of providing former racehorses with opportunities after their racing careers end.
He said: “I am passionate about ensuring former racehorses have opportunities to succeed and live full lives once they retire from the track. Thoroughbreds are so versatile and trainable and they love learning.
“Events like this are so important to show people the potential of ex-racehorses and find what strengths individual horses have. I’m looking forward to working with Rosie, Emily and Robyn and seeing how their horses perform.”
Successful Partnerships in the Spotlight
Among those taking part will be Emily Ware and Dream Big, her 15-year-old bay mare. The partnership was crowned RoR Elite Eventing Champion at the 2025 RoR Elite Awards after winning the open intermediate under-21 class at Farley Hall.
Their success illustrates the competitive potential of former racehorses when given the opportunity to develop new skills and build successful partnerships with their riders.
Robyn Gray will also demonstrate her work with Hundred Percent, a seven-year-old gelding who has already enjoyed success on the British Eventing circuit. The pair won the open novice RoR class at Osberton in May.
Their participation will offer an insight into the different stages of retraining and competing former racehorses, from establishing new foundations to progressing through affiliated competition. She explained:
“I am really excited to be taking part in this Masterclass and having the opportunity to learn from one of Eventing’s greats,” she said.
“I’m not sure who I will be riding which is making me slightly nervous, but I’m sure we will have fun as we showcase some amazing former racehorses.”
Promoting Life Beyond Racing
The Masterclass also reflects RoR’s wider commitment to safeguarding the welfare of former racehorses and promoting their suitability for a range of equestrian activities.
Established in 2000, the charity works to support former racehorses through retraining standards, owner education, competition opportunities and welfare initiatives. Its work aims to encourage lifelong partnerships while helping horses find suitable roles after leaving racing.
London International Horse Show Event Director Simon Brooks-Ward welcomed Fox-Pitt’s involvement, highlighting the educational value of the session.
Masterclass Programme at London International Horse Show
The RoR session forms part of a varied Masterclass programme at this year’s show. Other announced sessions include Richard Davison’s Dressage Masterclass on Thursday 17 December, followed by Dickie Waygood’s Eventing Masterclass with Ros Canter and Gemma Stevens on Friday 18 December.
Sunday 20 December will also feature Dog Agility with Anthony Clarke, while Pippa Funnell’s Pony Club Rally is scheduled for Monday 21 December. Further Masterclasses are still to be announced.
London International Horse Show will take place at ExCeL London from 17–21 December 2026, bringing together international Show Jumping, Dressage and Driving, alongside Royal Kennel Club Dog Agility, equestrian displays, shopping and festive family entertainment.
The event is expected to welcome more than 80,000 visitors and will feature the only FEI World Cup™ Jumping, Dressage and Driving qualifiers held in the UK.
Feature image: Former world No.1 event rider, William Fox-Pitt, will lead a brand new Masterclass celebrating the versatility of the retrained racehorse at London International Horse Show on Sunday 20 December. Credit William Fox-Pitt