Photo courtesy Erin Gilmore Photography

The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) announced today that Erin Gilmore Photography will return as the Official Show Photographer of the 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, presented by Thoroughbred Charities of America. The 2026 competition takes place October 7-10 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, and showcases the athleticism and trainability of the recently-retired racehorse in ten disciplines of competition. The Erin Gilmore Photography team will cover preliminary and Championship competition, as well as Friday clinic sessions.

“Year over year, my respect and appreciation for Thoroughbred Makeover trainers and riders only deepens,” said Erin Gilmore. “The incredible work that everyone dedicates to their prospects in the lead up to the Makeover is reflected in the moments that myself and my team are honored to photograph. The Thoroughbred Makeover is a highlight of our year as photographers and we cannot wait to document the class of 2026 this fall!”

“We’re excited to have Erin Gilmore and her team back at the Thoroughbred Makeover,” said Kristen Kovatch Bentley, RRP managing director. “The Erin Gilmore Photography team always produces stunning images that help our competitors as well as the organization cherish every moment of Makeover week.”

Erin Gilmore Photography covers internationally rated equestrian events as official photographer in the Northeast USA and beyond. Prior to establishing EG Photos, Erin Gilmore covered top level equestrian sport around the world, with career highlights that range from the Olympic Games to working with international equestrian brands and clients. In addition to managing large events and teams, Erin Gilmore mentors up and coming photographers, and works to build community among equestrian photography enthusiasts.

Photography Policy

Out of respect for the Official Show Photography, the RRP will be implementing the following photography protocols during the 2025 Thoroughbred Makeover, which can be read in full on the RRP website. Only the Official Show Photographers are permitted to take competitor images and sell them to the public; visitors, spectator and exhibitors are permitted to take photographs and record video for personal use only.

Professional photography equipment, including but not limited to cameras with lenses longer than 4 inches, tripods, monopods, or any video camera mounted on a tripod or other stabilizing devices are not permitted under any circumstances. Media representatives with approved credentials are the only exception; media representative applications will open on June 1, 2026. No private photography credentials will be issued.