The IHRA are pleased to confirm that the IHRA has been awarded funding by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s Equine Technical Support Scheme for the following project.
Number Identification Cloths
The Irish Harness Racing Association (IHRA) successfully implemented the Number Cloth Identification System with support from grant funding. This system works in collaboration with the previously funded Photo Finish Camera (acquired in 2021 under the Equine Support Fund) to ensure the accuracy and reliability of race results.
The number cloths allow for precise horse identification in high-speed race conditions, especially in close finishes where physical features overlap in photo-finish images. By validating official records, ensuring clarity in prize money allocation, preventing errors in race history, and enhancing data for performance analysis, the system safeguards the integrity of harness racing in Ireland.
Accurate race data is essential for inclusion in the European Studbook, where minimum standards set by the Union of European Trotting require detailed race-form data, including finishing positions, times, and margins. The introduction of the number cloths directly supports compliance with these standards, strengthening the credibility of breeding records and the long-term development of Irish harness racing.
This project demonstrates IHRA’s commitment to upholding international standards, protecting the value of breeding stock, and supporting future generations of trotters and pacers through accurate race data and studbook documentation.