Have you ever wondered what happens to retired racehorses in their life after racing?
Most racing jurisdictions have their own programs in place to rehome and at Racing Victoria their program is known as “OFF THE TRACK”. This program aims to facilitate the placement of retired thoroughbred racehorses in their life after racing. The program is dedicated to supporting and promoting retired racehorses due to their versatility, athleticism and intelligence. There are so many discipilines that are suitable including; Equestrian (show jumping, dressage, polo, eventing), Companion and Therapy Animals (inc riding for the diabled) and Working or Pleasure horses. Racing Victoria has specialised retrainers to assist in the transition process to ensure each horse is suitable for their next stage of life.
Our story at Hope Racing begins with the recently retired stable stalwart “Big Brew” who has been the flag bearer for the stable over the past three racing seasons. Raced by his Owner/Breeder, Mr Bill Bowness, BB won six races with 13 minor placings and retired with earnings of $335,790.00. His biggest pay cheque came at Geelong on the Good Friday” meeting April 7th 2023 in the Country Trainers Series Final worth $150K over 1500m. He ran his last race at Caulfield on October 16th and retired sound and in excellent health. Mr Bowness kindly gifted the much loved BB to Dee Hope and he will remain in our family for his life span.
On Saturday November 23, just shy of six weeks since he retired, BB competed in his first official show in the “Off The Track” Led section held at Yea and won his class. He was runner up in the Champion Hack Led class competing against more experienced horses but still a super effort considering he is still in the transition phase. BB qualifies for the OTT final held at Bendigo in January and we will keep you posted on his journey ahead.
