Thoroughbreds are flighty, right?  That theory was more than disproved at the 2nd Dual Code Racehorse to Ridden Horse class at the Waikato A&P Show at Claudelands recently.

 

In the Led and Best Dressed (Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds), it was thoroughbreds up first.  Judging was based on each horse’s conformation and turnout, including their handler’s outfit.  

 

Faced with the wild wind which whipped hats and fascinators off on an excursion of their own, the thoroughbreds stood and posed for judging taking the conditions in their stride.

The blustery weather continued during the ridden stage, where each horse completed a workout at a walk, trot and canter and including a change of direction.

 

The competition was hot with the class including a range of ages and horses which had competed on racecourses all over the world.  Among them was racing royalty in the shape of New Zealand’s two-time Horse of the year, Mufhasa, the winner of 10 Group One races.

 

 

 

The eventual supreme winner was Johnny the Jet and Chanel Snowden.  Her beautiful 9-year-old jet black gelding may not have troubled the judge in nine raceday starts, however, he is proving to be a standout in the show ring.  

 

Events such as this, along with the work organisations such as Beyond the Barriers do to showcase off-track thoroughbreds, are a win for the racing industry, demonstrating the incredible versatility and adaptability of the thoroughbred.

 

If you are looking for an opportunity to see what our thoroughbreds are capable of in their lives after racing, then head along to the Cambridge A&P Show on 1 December.  LOVERACING.NZ is sponsoring the Life after Racing to help get the word out there that thoroughbreds make amazing showjumpers, eventers, show and polo ponies when their racing career is over.

 

So back to that original comment about thoroughbreds being flighty  - I will leave you with this:

 

Thoroughbred; a horse breed best known for its use in horse racing; horses that are known for their agility, speed and spirit.