Australian horses have excelled themselves in the 2010-11 racing season winning 65 Group 1 races in seven different countries.

And that number could increase this Saturday (July 30) with four South African G1 events scheduled for Clairwood.

Australian breeders enjoyed success with their horses at the highest level in Hong Kong, Japan, Dubai, Singapore, South Africa, New Zealand and of course Australia.

The wins came across a wide spectrum of distances, ranging from Black Caviar at sprint trips to Igugu being hailed as South Africa’s likely Horse of the Year after her win over older horses in the G1 Durban July at 2200m.

“Australian horses have proven beyond question that they are the most adaptable and resilient in the world able to succeed in all environments,” Aushorse Chief Executive Peter McGauran said.  “No other country produces horses tough and fast enough to win Group 1 races in both hemispheres with such frequency.”

McGauran said the success of Australian horses on the international stage is reflected in the growing export markets, but reiterated the ambitions of local breeders to maintain pace with international standards by continuing to produce a superior product.

“Australian breeders produce horses that take their place with the best in the world to the point of breeding the world’s best horse Black Caviar,” he said.  “As a result, Australia’s export market of over 2,500 horses worth $200m continues to grow.

“But it’s a competitive game with all breeding nations chasing market share in Asia and Australia has got to keep producing fast, adaptable and affordable horses to stay ahead of the pack.  That’s the challenge and Australian breeders are taking it up with relish.”