Breeders’ Cup Limited has announced its continued partnership with Equine MediRecord (EMR), a Kildare-based company that will supply its equine welfare compliance software for this year’s Breeders’ Cup World Championships at Del Mar, California. The Championships, set for 1-2 November, will see EMR’s system used to track the full veterinary history of each racehorse, ensuring compliance with regulations and helping to maintain high standards of welfare and anti-doping measures.

This isn’t EMR’s first foray with the Breeders’ Cup—they first introduced their system at Keeneland in 2020. What’s different this year is a system update that automatically informs trainers of the safety regulations, including those mandated by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA), that must be adhered to for horses to compete. Trainers will also be notified of which documents need to be submitted, making compliance more streamlined.

Global Recognition for an Irish Leader

EMR’s reach has expanded since its founding, with the Breeders’ Cup joining an impressive roster of clients including 1S/T Racing, the British Horseracing Authority, and the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia. They’ve positioned themselves as a go-to for organisations prioritising horse welfare and regulatory transparency.

Pierce Dargan, CEO of EMR, commented: “It’s an honour to work with the Breeders’ Cup once again. We believe our system plays a key role in safeguarding the future of the sport, ensuring that future generations will be able to enjoy racing as we have.”

In a time where the sport’s integrity is under close scrutiny, EMR’s tech is likely to attract further interest from racing bodies across the world.

Major Investment and Expanding Horizons

In 2022, EMR secured significant backing through a multi-million pound investment from Merit Holdings, which also owns Business Infusions—the largest equine veterinary software group globally. EMR’s inclusion in this group has only strengthened its offering, with the technology already gaining key endorsements from figures such as Scott Chaney of the California Horse Racing Board, Dr Dionne Benson from 1S/T Racing, and Dr William Farmer of Churchill Downs.

This partnership with Breeders’ Cup marks another step in EMR’s mission to raise the standards of equine welfare and regulatory compliance across the sport. With horse racing constantly evolving, the industry is turning more and more to digital solutions to stay ahead.

As the 2024 Breeders’ Cup draws near, all eyes will be on Del Mar—and the Irish innovation helping to ensure the safety and integrity of the sport.