Thoroughbreds show their stuff
RACING: A large field of former gallopers continue on their new paths when they parade before the judges at this year’s Heritage Bank Toowoomba Royal Show.
Fifty-five ex race horses go on show this week in an expanded 2018 thoroughbred program.
The increased numbers have come about through the backing of sponsors – including numerous Toowoomba racing stables – which has allowed for a Show Hunter Thoroughbred event to be added to this year’s ring programs.
The lift in thoroughbred competitors followed a call from local show horse identities keen to lift the focus on rehoming retired race horses.
“It’s the responsibility of the whole racing industry to become involved in the re-homing of former race horses,” long-time show participant Leigh Sears said in November.
Her call was answered in spades by trainers, studs and equine businesses.
“We got a great response from so many people keen to see these horses go to good homes and adapt to a new lifestyle,” Sears said at yesterday’s Toowoomba judging.
“We have an open hack event and we’ve been able to add one for Show Hunter Thoroughbreds which has drawn around 35 entries.
“A big thanks has to go to National Farmers Warehouse and all the businesses and trainers who got behind this.
“We’ve been able to offer more than $8500 in prize money this year which makes it the the biggest thoroughbred-hack class in Australia.”
Sears is currently enjoying her own show-ring success with former Toowoomba race mare Monashee Moon.
Competing under the name of Miss Indiana, the sevenyear-old was named Supreme Led National Saddle Horse at last month’ Sydney Royal Easter Show and champion led mare at this year’s Toowoomba Royal. She finished runner-up to Toowoomba stallion in Regal Banquet in Supreme.