Former gallopers showing how it’s done in the ring
They met with different levels of success on the track but ex-gallopers Somnambulist and Monashee Moon have found themselves on common ground in life after racing.
Somnambulist — the winner of seven races — and maiden performer Monahsee Moon are now at the next stage of their lives as showring participants.
Somnambulist, known in the ring as Safari, has been champion small hunter at the last two Toowoomba Royal shows.
Monashee Moon (Miss Indiana) started as a show horse newcomer this year.
Their cross-over careers coincide with a growing world-wide push for a stronger awareness of animal welfare and in the case of Somnambulist and Monashee Moon, more emphasis on the rehousing of retired thoroughbreds.
A group of Toowoomba showring competitors and exhibitors are keen to see that trend increase across the Darling Downs.
They are on the lookout for other interested parties and potential sponsors to help keep the ball rolling.
Leigh Sears — the wife of prominent Clifford Park trainer Tony Sears — and their daughter Maddy are successful show participants and strong advocates for the rehoming of thoroughbreds.
“Both Somnambulist and Monashee Moon came to hand really quickly as show horses,” Maddy said.
“A lot of the change over is based on their personalities but about 95 per cent of race horses can make showjumpers, eventers, dressage horses or go onto pony club.
“Retraining programs are available to help them make the transition.”
Godolphin — the world’s most powerful thoroughbred breeding and racing operation — has its own horse rehoming scheme for geldings, including one in Australia.
Godolphin Lifetime Care assists in retraining its former horses for a large number of equestrian disciplines.
Leigh said the Sears’ stable gives away some of its former race-track performers to suitable homes and horses are always available for people interested in taking them on.
“It’s the responsibility of the whole racing industry to become involved in the rehoming of former race horses,” Leigh said.
“We are also looking to add another show event to next year’s Toowoomba Royal.
“There is one for open horses but not for hunters.
“Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne shows cater well for thoroughbreds and we want to do the same at the Toowoomba Royal which is a large show.
“The aim is to have two classes — one for open horses and one for hunters.
“First of all we need to find some added sponsors.
“I’m considering approaching any interested horse trainers who might like to get behind what is an important issue for all of us.”
❝whole It’s the responsibility of the racing industry to become involved. — Leigh Sears