Skye on board in thoroughbred arena with a difference
EQUINE: History-making Toowoomba jockey Skye Bogenhuber is not sure when she’ll be ready to jump back on a horse, but thanks to some friendly encouragement she’s doing the next best thing this week at Toowoomba Showgrounds.
Bogenhuber is on a steady road to recovery from a head injury and severe concussion she sustained in a Clifford Park track fall two weeks ago.
But yesterday she was back amongst horse action on the Heritage Bank Toowoomba Royal Show thoroughbred judging program.
The five-time Clifford Park premier rider and 2012 Weetwood Handicap winner stepped into the show arena as the event ambassador at the invitation of Toowoomba champion thoroughbred exhibitor Leigh Sears.
Sears said Bogenhuber’s dedication to horse welfare, including the re-homing of ex-racehorses, made her a worthy ambassador for the thoroughbred exhibition, which offers a large number of former gallopers a new career path at the end of their racing days.
“Skye’s been a leading jockey for so many years and is a real advocate for Off-Track Thoroughbreds. I thought she was ideal to be involved with our show while she is taking a break from racing,” Sears said.
“She has a real passion for horse and animal welfare.”
Bogenhuber relished her new role yesterday where she coincidently met up with former Toowoomba gelding, Sigmund.
Sigmund was trained at Clifford Park by Ben Currie and is now owned by Janine Shepherdson and Lucy Thomson.
“He used to be one of my favourite horses at the track,” Bogenhuber said.
“I’ve never been involved in this side of thoroughbreds.
“It’s fascinating to learn about the different aspects of showing them and it’s great to see so many race horses finding new careers.
“It’s a big thing a lot of people work hard to ensure happens and I really want to thank Leigh for getting me involved this year.”