Many people ask us about what happens to racehorses when they finish their career. Here at Lambourn Racing, our horses' welfare is a priority both during and after their racing careers. The common misconception is that racehorses are virtually unrideable by all but the most experienced, and that they are unsuited to other equestrian pursuits. To correct this we thought we’d show you what has happened to some of the horses that have raced for us but have been unable to continue, for reasons that range from injury to lack of ability.

Starcrest
Having failed to show enough speed as a racehorse, Starcrest has begun a new career as a polo pony. We will let you know how they get on together.

 

 

Marawa Bellevue
Despite being as slow as a boat on the racetrack, ‘Moley’ has found her forte as an eventer. Within 4 months of going to her new home she and her young rider had won their first event. They have since gone on to win 3 more together.

Grey Coat
Many people remember the adorable Grey Coat, as much for his lovely temperament in the stable as for the large white splodge that adorned his otherwise chestnut neck and mane, as though a pot of paint had been tipped over him. It became clear that, despite a promising start to his juvenile hurdling career, he really wasn’t in love with racing and would much prefer to be somebody’s pet! And that is exactly what he now is, a much loved family hack who is ridden by the children of the house as well as the adults. He is still local to us so we get regular updates on his wellbeing.

Barry’s Double
Barry was another who had clearly had enough of racing. He was JR’s first ever runner and did us proud with a 40-1 third place. However, he had had a lot of racing when we took over his training, despite being only a 4 year old. ‘Baz’ is now the adored pet of a teenager, who regularly competes with him at local shows. He has also developed the interesting habit of jumping out of his paddock when he thinks it’s time for tea, and coming back to his stable! Not bad for a horse who resolutely refused to jump anything when he was in training.

Daniel Deronda
Danny was a really classy horse in his younger days but unfortunately, as with so many big thoroughbreds, injury got the better of him. I suspect he’s not too upset about that as he was found a home with a Sussex barrister and is now a regular on the hunting field. Danny did get a taste of his old life when he and his owner competed in a charity race at Plumpton last Autumn. I’m told that his rider ran out of puff long before Danny!

Ki Chi Saga
Having been a hugely consistent horse over the years, with countless wins and places to his name, age starting creeping up on Ki Chi. One of his part owners took him home with her and he is now hacked out every day, and competes in 1 day events, although he always struck me as being the type of horse who would think dressage was a bit sissy! His number one love in life is still food; even a nasty bout of colic after an illicit trip to a nearby orchard hasn’t dampened his enthusiasm!

Well, that’s just a few. If there is a horse that hasn’t been mentioned and you would like to know ‘where are they now’ please do drop us an e-mail and we can let you know.

Alison Auvray

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Lambourn Racing
Frenchmans Lodge Stables, Upper Lambourn, Berkshire, RG17 8QT, UK
T: 01488 73740 F: 01488 72742 M: 07798 645796 E: jr.auvray@lambournracing.com
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