Sex requirement for horses upheld by Australian judge

Racehorses must have physical sex for their foals to be considered thoroughbreds, an Australian judge has ruled, upholding an international requirement that prohibits the use of artificial insemination.

Federal Court Justice Alan Robertson yesterday dismissed a bid to make the country the first to allow artificial insemination for thoroughbreds, following a trial that spanned four months and concluded on December 19, 2011. He cited potential international consequences as a reason for his ruling.

Bruce McHugh, a former chairman of a Sydney racing club, sued thoroughbred authorities to legalise the use of artificial insemination, arguing the ban on the practice was an illegal trade restraint as he seeks to start a breeding business. The suit could have “downgraded” the status of thoroughbred races held in Australia, if upheld, Robertson said.