IT is encouraging to note that there is a rising number of former racehorses shining in showing classes, following their retirement from the track.
Not only do these thoroughbreds compete in dedicated RoR (Retraining of Racehorses) or SEIB racehorse to riding horse qualifiers, but they are also shining in hunter, hack and riding horse divisions.
RoR remains proactive in promoting former racehorses, and recent statistics have revealed that 60% of its membership take part in showing. The organisation hosts six prestigious finals throughout the season, culminating in the national championships at Aintree in August.
“RoR is a fantastic charity and nothing makes us prouder than seeing so many happy horses competing with us in their second career,” says Carly Sage, Aintree International Equestrian Centre manager.
Several producers have been successful in producing former racehorses and amateurs are “clicking” with them, too.
COMING from a racing background, Katie Jerram- Hunnable was one producer who gained early successes with horses retired from racing. Among the most prolific were horses owned and sometimes bred by The late Queen.
Who can forget the cheers when The Queen’s home-bred former chaser Barbers Shop took the 2017 supreme ridden title at Royal Windsor, and again following another royal title when First Receiver triumphed in the SEIB racehorse to riding horse championship at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) last October?
The Essex-based producer had previously won this title with Night Prayers back in 2011, and this latest victory provided a first win for King Charles III.
“I would like to think we all see the long game with former racehorses. While some may adapt to a different routine quickly, others take time,” says Katie.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
'Sorry, but I wasn't feeling it'
Fresh from the opening meet, Tessa Waugh hasn't quite yet been bitten by the hunting bug. Without the crisp autumnal air and cheek-pinching cold she hoped for, it's a sluggish start
New pair pull off a win
A former European Championships pony is on form with his new rider, while elsewhere former showjumpers and eventers take ribbons
Lording it over the rest
Horses who have returned from injury, a second generation homebred and a long format specialist score on the final weekend of the British season
Smith hits flying form
A \"her way or no way\" mare helps Zoe Smith to an impressive ribbon haul and a rider beats his own boss to the top spot
Jankorado hits the jackpot
Paul Sims is triumphant despite his interrupted jump-off preparation and a borrowed horse comes up trumps
Peanut
From \"dangerous, scary\" to hedge-hopping brilliance, hunting has been the making of this unstable but very lovable equine character
She's a corker
Communication, says long-standing and highly respected Belvoir master Lady Sarah McCorquodale, is the key to all, as Catherine Austen discovers
Access all areas Cavalier Centre
The Cavalier Centre is a fully accessible, state-of-the-art equestrian centre designed to improve lives through horse-based activities. Ellie May Forrester pays a visit
'Use it or lose it'
Not everyone wants to reach for the pipe and slippers at a certain age. Becky Murray speaks to some veteran horse-and-rider combos for their secrets of human and equine longevity
A new way forward
Worm control in horses is vital, but established methods will not remain effective for much longer. Tim Mair FRCVS explains why and how we need to change
