About
Equinome, a division of Zinto Labs and the Irish equine science company Plusvital, is the global leader in genetic testing services for the Thoroughbred racing industry. By harnessing state-of-the-art genomics, bioinformatics, and computational biology, Equinome analyses a horse's DNA to deliver precise, actionable predictions about race distance optimization, track surface suitability, and overall performance potential. Their flagship Speed Gene Test is one of the most established and trusted genetic tests in the Thoroughbred world, accepted from bloodstock regions across the globe. The Racing Gene Pack elevates this further by analysing 50,000 genetic markers to refine predicted optimum race distance to within a couple of furlongs. For the most comprehensive view, the Premium Pack bundles all available tests into a single, detailed genomic assessment. CHECKMATE is a pioneering breeding decision tool that examines a mare's genetic profile in high definition and identifies the stallions that best complement her DNA — bringing scientific rigour to bloodstock pairing. Equinome also delivers Research & Consulting services, with ongoing studies covering racehorse temperament, stress responses, welfare, and performance genomics. Underpinned by an expert team spanning molecular biology, veterinary science, equine exercise physiology, and statistics, Equinome serves horse owners, breeders, trainers, and veterinary professionals worldwide, making high-definition DNA intelligence accessible across the entire Thoroughbred industry.
Key Features
- Speed Gene Test: One of the most established genetic tests globally, predicting a Thoroughbred's optimal race distance based on its unique DNA profile.
- Racing Gene Pack: Analyses 50,000 genetic markers to refine predicted optimum race distance to within a couple of furlongs, delivering enhanced precision when paired with the Speed Gene Test.
- CHECKMATE Breeding Tool: Examines a mare's genetic profile in high definition and identifies stallions whose DNA best complements hers, enabling scientifically informed breeding decisions.
- Premium Pack: Bundles all of Equinome's genetic tests into a single comprehensive genomic assessment, covering race distance, surface suitability, and broader performance potential.
- Research & Consulting: Ongoing scientific research and expert consulting services covering equine genetics, racehorse temperament, welfare, and performance genomics.
Use Cases
- Trainers use the Speed Gene Test to determine the optimal race distance for a young Thoroughbred before committing to a racing programme.
- Breeders leverage CHECKMATE to identify genetically compatible stallions for their mares, improving the scientific basis of bloodstock selection decisions.
- Veterinary organisations partner with Equinome to incorporate cutting-edge genomic insights into equine health and performance care.
- Bloodstock agents and owners use Premium Pack results when evaluating horses for purchase, adding a layer of genetic due diligence to buying decisions.
- Equine researchers and racing industry bodies commission Equinome's consulting services to study racehorse temperament, stress responses, and welfare through advanced genomics.
Pros
- World-leading scientific expertise: Equinome's team includes specialists in genomics, bioinformatics, molecular biology, veterinary science, and equine exercise physiology — ensuring tests are grounded in rigorous science.
- Comprehensive test portfolio: Multiple test tiers — from the focused Speed Gene Test to the all-inclusive Premium Pack — allow clients to choose the depth of genomic insight that suits their needs and budget.
- Global sample acceptance: DNA samples are accepted from almost all major bloodstock regions worldwide, making Equinome accessible to the international Thoroughbred industry.
- Actively evolving research base: Continuous research into areas like stress responses and racehorse welfare means tests and insights are regularly updated with the latest scientific findings.
Cons
- Thoroughbred-only focus: Equinome's tests are designed exclusively for Thoroughbred horses, limiting applicability for owners or breeders of other equine breeds.
- Predictive, not deterministic: Genetic testing provides probabilistic predictions about performance and distance suitability; results are an informative guide rather than a guarantee of racing success.
- Premium pricing: Specialised genomic testing is a paid service, and comprehensive packs may represent a significant cost for smaller owners or casual breeders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Speed Gene Test?
The Speed Gene Test is Equinome's flagship product — one of the most widely used genetic tests for Thoroughbreds worldwide. It analyses the horse's DNA to predict its optimum race distance and surface suitability, helping owners, trainers, and breeders make more informed racing decisions.
What is CHECKMATE and how does it help breeders?
CHECKMATE is a breeding decision support tool that examines a mare's genetic profile in high definition and identifies which stallions' DNA best complements hers. It brings scientific rigour to bloodstock pairing, helping breeders select matches that may enhance foal performance potential.
How do I submit a DNA sample for testing?
Equinome accepts DNA samples from almost all major bloodstock regions around the world. Details on the testing process, including sample collection and submission, are outlined on the Testing Process section of their website.
What is the difference between the Racing Gene Pack and the Premium Pack?
The Racing Gene Pack analyses 50,000 genetic markers to refine race distance predictions to within a couple of furlongs, and is most powerful when combined with the Speed Gene Test. The Premium Pack bundles all of Equinome's available genetic tests together for the most comprehensive genomic assessment currently available for Thoroughbreds.
Who is Equinome designed for?
Equinome's services are designed for horse owners, breeders, trainers, and veterinary professionals working within the Thoroughbred racing industry. Their tests and tools help all stakeholders make better, data-driven decisions about race placement, breeding, and horse welfare.
