In this episode of The Thoroughbred Network, I sit down with Vicky Leonard to talk about National Thoroughbred Week, a new pilot program running across Australia and New Zealand from 20–24 November 2025.

Modelled on the highly successful UK National Racehorse Week and NZ Open Farms Day, National Thoroughbred Week is designed as a transparent, community-first initiative that gives everyone a rare backstage pass into the Thoroughbred racing and breeding industry.
With open days held at participating farms, stables and venues across both countries, the week invites the public to see firsthand how Thoroughbred horses are raised, trained, cared for, and transitioned into life after racing.

In this conversation, we discuss:
• Why National Thoroughbred Week was created
• How the pilot program works across Australia and New Zealand
• What visitors can expect at participating venues
• How this initiative builds trust, transparency and connection
• Why opening the gates matters for the future of the Thoroughbred
• How to register for free and take part in the week

📅 Event dates: 20–24 November 2025
🎟️ Cost: Free to attend
📍 Where: Venues across Australia and New Zealand
🔗 Register: Visit the “Find An Event” page at https://thoroughbredweek.com.au

For more information, FAQs and event details:
https://thoroughbredweek.com.au/frequently-asked-questions/

Support the show

For this episode, we traveled to 'The valley of the racehorse', known as Lambourn. It's situated in southern England and is home to over 1500 racehorses and our podcast guest Josh Apiafi.

Josh is well known in the horse racing industry. He has over 30 extensive years of experience and has held a variety of roles. He is currently a presenter at Sky Sports Racing and has recently launched a new initiative; Racing Pathways.

His drive for diversity and inclusion within the industry is fierce. His enthusiasm to encourage the younger generation to experience a wider range of career opportunities within the industry is infectious. I loved discussing a full range of topics with Josh and we hope you enjoy listening to one of our industry's great minds. 

This week we sit down with Group 1 winning jockey Rachel King.

Rachel started her career in the saddle as an amateur riding point to points in the UK and Ireland. She knew quickly that she wanted more and took out her apprenticeship on the flat. However, it wasn't the right time or place so she paused her riding career while heading to Australia for a working holiday.

Fast forward a few years and she is now the first female to ride a Sydney Cup, a Group 1 winning jockey with supporters such as Gai Waterhouse, Godolphin, and Mark Newnham. If Rachel's story gives you anything, it's the will to never to give up.