Outstanding ITBF Tokyo ’24 Conference

A truly memorable week for ITBF members and guests

The International Thoroughbred Breeders’ Federation has concluded its highly successful ‘ITBF Conference 2024’ held over 5 days in Japan, with the added opportunity for delegates to extend their stay to attend the 70^th Anniversary of the Japanese Derby.

The 70 ITBF attendees from 21 of 27 member countries on 6 continents, received an outstanding level of hospitality from host, the JBBA (Japan Bloodhorse Breeders’ Association). The programme commenced with attending the Japanese Oaks in Tokyo, before all delegates were flown to Hokkaido for a 2 day-tour. An array of world-class stallions were shown at Shadai Stallion Station (including the legendary EQUINOX), Darley Japan and JBBA Shizunai Stallion Station, as well as a visit to view the exceptional facilities at the JRA’s Hikada Training and Research Centre.

On return to Tokyo, there followed 2 days of conferencing. A half-day Veterinary Meeting plus an all-day General Meeting provided 2 extensive agendas, featuring topics of worldwide importance and interest – all offering an opportunity for questions and debate. The plenary veterinary lecture delivered by the host nation, educated the audience on the important distinction between gene therapy, gene doping and genetic manipulation – and the future implications of all. Chairpersons of the ITBF, Kirsten Rausing, and International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA), Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, shared views on Thoroughbred industry enhancement through working collaboratively. Mr Engelbrecht-Bresges further presented on Equine Welfare as the Foundation of a Socially Responsible Sport. Other presentations included Environmental Sustainability in Stud Farming from both Northern and Southern Hemisphere perspectives, The Impact of Racetrack Closures in the USA, Breeding in Latin America – past, present and future, Breeding & Racing – the French System, amongst other international contributions.

At the General Meeting, ITBF members voted unanimously to continue to stand resolute against the use of all artificial breeding methods (identified, and yet to be defined).

The impeccable welcome and farewell dinners with honoured guests from the JBBA, JRA (Japan Racing Association), NAR (National Association of Racing), MAFF, and the Irish Ambassador to Japan, provided all with an immeasurable opportunity for worldwide professional networking.

The Tokyo conference in entirety was deemed a resounding success by all delegates.

ITBF will continue working to advance and protect the interests of Thoroughbred breeders throughout the world. Its next General Meeting will be hosted by France in 2026.