More than 20 thoroughbreds were involved in this month’s TRSA-sponsored Equestrian SA (ESA) South Australian Showhorse of the year event.
TRSA (Thoroughbred Racing South Australia) supported the event – held over two days at Mount Pleasant – by providing garlands and enscripted rugs, championship and reserve champion prizemoney, plus newcomer sashes, rosettes and prizemoney.
Overall the event attracted 126 horses and 95 riders, across a range of classes.
Throughout this year ESA is highlighting “life after racing” and spokesperson Bec Struck was happy with the thoroughbred classes at the Mount Pleasant event.
“Realistically, to have that many involved in the different events across the two days is pretty good support, given how much COVID impacted us,” she said.
“We didn’t know even two weeks before the event if it was going to run for sure.
“Also, it’s a very new concept, so taking that into consideration, I think it was a success.”
The thoroughbred showhorse section’s ‘champion led’ category was taken out by Leanne Donohue with Karolina, which raced as Warmington Run. By Barely A Moment, the horse was owned by Graeme Reynolds and previously trained by Tony McEvoy.
“This is Karolina’s first year – she only started showing in March,” Bec said.
“So her future is all before her.”
‘Champion ridden’ thoroughbred was Orleans Graetz with Carona Park Victory.
In the Showhunter section the ‘champion led’ was Tracy Maitland with Washington, which raced as Full Tank in Hong Kong.
“He won some big races, before Michael Hickmott brought him back to Australia for some tendon treatment,” Bec said.
“Washington has been very successful, having represented SA at the National Showhorse Championships twice.”
Bec is a fierce advocate of the ‘off-the-track’ mantra, which is dedicated to supporting and promoting retired thoroughbred racehorses.
“I honestly believe that thoroughbred horses – aside from being pretty animals – offer so much versatility in equestrian,” she said.
“I think this will really take off. People are already getting involved and saying ‘this is great’, but we need to keep showing people how wonderful and versatile thoroughbreds are.
“We have many plans for 2021, as life after racing is important, going forward.”
Bec said the TRSA sponsorship, particularly the prizemoney, had proven a “welcome incentive”.
Bec paid tribute to the backing of TRSA, along with McEvoy-Mitchell racing, Lindsay Park and SABOIS.
PHOTO: Tracy and Maddison Maitland's Washington, which raced as Full Tank in Hong Kong, at the recent TRSA-sponsored Equestrian SA (ESA) South Australian Showhorse of the Year event. PHOTO: Kerri Afford Photography
