A.W Owners Club Members Visit Nasu's Ascot Farm for Horse Care Insights

A.W Owners Club Visits Ascot Farm

Recently, the A.W Owners Club (managed by A.W Inc. located in Tsukiji, Tokyo) hosted a visit to Ascot Farm in Nasu, Tochigi Prefecture. This exclusive event was organized for club members to observe the management facilities of their assigned horses and ensure proper health monitoring and care. The visit served as a great opportunity for participants to understand the farm's dedication to optimal horse care and its surrounding environment.

About Ascot Farm

Ascot Farm, situated in Nasu, is renowned for its ideal conditions for raising racehorses due to its altitude, climate, and water quality. This expansive facility features a substantial grazing area, a hill training course, stables, feed stores, water sources, and shaded shelters. Upon arrival, members were greeted with fresh air and began their tour under the guidance of the dedicated staff.

Purpose of the Visit

The primary aim of this visit was to assess the health and well-being of the horses, as well as the stress factors they encounter in their environment. To facilitate this, renowned pedigree specialist Takemasa Kameya, who has conducted assessments for the horses in the club, joined the visit. Besides evaluating the horses' health, the club aimed to provide members with an exclusive look at the inner workings of the farm, which is not often accessible to them.

Members of A.W Owners Club with Takemasa Kameya

Care System: Nutrition and Hydration

The dedicated staff at Ascot Farm practices a comprehensive care system for the horses, which includes:

- Pasture Management: Regular adjustments to the types and density of grass in the grazing areas to ensure proper nutritional balance.
- Supplementary Feed Supply: During grazing, vitamin and mineral-enriched feed is provided as needed.
- Water Management: Daily cleaning of water supplies and quality checks are conducted.
- Hoof and Leg Care: After grazing or returning to the stable, staff check the condition of the horses' hooves, administering horseshoes or hoof trimming as required.
- Health Monitoring: Staff observe the horses daily, recording vital signs such as temperature and respiration rates.

These efforts are focused on reducing stress and promoting a balanced development of the horses' skeletal and muscular systems.

Horses Exercising at Ascot Farm

Highlights of Training Facilities

During the tour, several facilities were noted for their importance in the training regime:

- Shaded Areas: Multiple shaded resting places with roofs at the entrance and central parts of the grazing land.
- Weather-Proofing: Shelters and covered walking machines are in place to accommodate rainy seasons.
- Training Tracks: A track, hill training course, and straight course have been developed for workout and training preparation.
- Stables: Facilities designed for both relaxation and management of horses post-grazing, with careful consideration on floor material, ventilation, and lighting.

Kameya particularly highlighted the hill training course, remarking on its excellent slope balance, cushion surface, and lengthy straight sections, stating that it is an ideal setup for enhancing the cardiovascular capabilities of the horses. "Such a well-structured environment is incredibly reassuring for the young horses during their growth stages," he noted, praising the farm’s commitments.

According to farm management, they prioritize maintaining consistent track conditions throughout the year, with regular maintenance based on climate and rainfall effects.

Horse Profiles and Conditions

Royal Orleans

- Name: Royal Orleans
- Gender: Colt
- Birth Date: March 19, 2023
- Pedigree: Sire: Just a Way, Dam: Shaina Musume

The coat condition is excellent, and its weight is near optimal targets. There is minimal stress on its limbs, and its stride is smooth, demonstrating a good balance with other horses in its surroundings while maintaining its own pace.

Shin Enkogetsu

- Name: Shin Enkogetsu
- Gender: Filly
- Birth Date: March 7, 2023
- Pedigree: Sire: Nishiken Mononofu, Dam: Smart Lupinas

This filly shows strong curiosity and often displays interest in her environment. She actively moves during grazing periods and shows promising growth. Special attention is given to her hoof and leg care.

Both horses exhibited minimal stress responses and appeared well-adjusted to their grazing environment.

Quotes from Staff

As a representative of Ascot Farm commented: "We will continue to ensure the healthy growth of our racehorses through strategic pasture management, feeding designs, and tailored care. Our plan is to maintain open communication with club members and incorporate visits like this, contributing to the transparent operation of our club."
— Ascot Farm Staff