As BETDAQ proudly continues its support of Treo Eile, it would like to share their latest update. Gold Cup winners in their new roles: (L-R) A Plus Tard, Al Boum Photo, Sizing John. Photo courtesy of Bit Media.
Treo Eile’s latest event was a Racehorse to Riding Horse masterclass held at RACE, the jockeys’ school in Kildare town. The event began with an incredible showjumping display by recently retrained Cheltenham Gold Cup winners, Sizing John and Al Boum Photo. These champions, now enjoying their new lives, performed a series of gymnastic-like exercises designed to showcase their athletic prowess. Both horses, trained by Jessica Harrington and Willie Mullins to win the coveted prize, behaved impeccably.
Anne O’Connor of Treo Eile explained the event’s purpose: “These two big names are tremendous ambassadors for retraining racehorses. Both are particularly natural in their new roles and have transitioned easily with professional event riders. Today’s demonstration illustrates their versatility and offers ideas and confidence to others considering retraining or just starting that journey.”
Treo Eile offers a series of clinics throughout the year aimed at improving retraining standards and assisting with any issues.
The second part of the event was led by three-time Dublin Horse Show Racehorse to Riding Horse champion, Joanne Quirke, who rode Chris’s Dream, a six-time winner who served Henry de Bromhead well over the years. Quirke provided profound insight into the art of retraining off-the- track racehorses for the show ring.
Completing the Gold Cup trio was A Plus Tard (pictured below when winning the 2022 Cheltenham Gold Cup), who traveled from Waterford with his new rider, Emily Kate Robinson. Alongside Emma Connolly on the Navan specialist Snow Falcon, point-to-point winner Feel My Pulse with Catriona Bolger, and Stephanie McGlynn riding the RDS prize winner Mickah Wallace Side Saddle, the group expertly showcased the different stages of retraining a thoroughbred.
Treo Eile’s Racehorse to Riding Horse masterclass celebrated the remarkable athleticism and versatility of racehorses, while highlighting the dedication and expertise required for their successful transition into the realm of riding horses.
About Treo Eile:
Established in 2020, Treo Eile is a not-for-profit organization providing assistance to racehorse trainers and owners wishing to rehome and retrain horses once their racetrack careers are complete.
Our website https://www.treoeile.com/ allows parties to connect and match horses to homes where they can be retrained for new disciplines.
For further information, please contact: [email protected] or Anne O’Connor at 087 782 1199.
