Magic Millions 2024: Showjumping gives racehorses new path to success

Former racehorses will be given a chance to embrace their competitive spirits in front of a fresh crowd at the Magic Millions on the Gold Coast in January.

He may have retired from racing but racehorse Nature Strip could re-emerge as a competitor in a new showjumping class set to debut at the Magic Millions carnival.

Retired thoroughbreds from across the racing industry will be given an avenue to embrace their competitive spirits in front of a fresh crowd at the Magic Millions polo and showjumping day on the Gold Coast in January.

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At the reins will be equestrian enthusiasts from across the industry competing for $50,000.

While it’s too early for Nature Strip to saddle up for the inaugural off-the-track thoroughbred event, new owner Kathy O’Hara said she’d love to see him compete in the future.

“I’ve only had him a very short time so it’s a bit unfair to try and get him qualified for this year but I’d love him to have a go next time around,” O’Hara said.

“I want him to be competitive and not embarrass him, he’s too nice a horse for that.”

O’Hara, a Group 1 winning jockey, says the off-the-track concept will show the wider public just one of the avenues available to horses when their track careers are over.

“It showcases thoroughbreds’ versatility and their life after racing, and it just brings another interest for owners,” O’Hara said.

“Obviously everybody shows up at the Magic Millions for their big race day and the sales so it’s nice for owners or potential buyers to see horses that are having a life after racing.”

Michelle Lang-McMahon and Kathy O’Hara with Ned O’Reilly ahead of the Magic Millions Showjumping event on the Gold Coast. Picture: Luke Marsden

Magic Millions co-owner Katie Page-Harvey said Magic Millions and the Queensland Off-The-Track program were focused on creating competitive opportunities for those who invest in the retraining of thoroughbreds in the grassroots equestrian disciplines.

“Those within the horse industry are the ultimate horse-lovers,” Ms Page-Harvey said.

“We work with thoroughbreds whether it is in breeding, training, ownership or at the racecourse, but few people know that for so many of us we enjoy a life outside of work with retrained racehorses – showjumping, polo, dressage, and eventing.

“Horses are our 24/7 passion, and this new showjumping class is a chance for those passions to come together and be appreciated in a fantastic competitive environment.

“Opening it up to those 16 and over who have a connection to the thoroughbred industry is a huge participation group.

“Vets, farriers, racehorse owners, breeders, strappers, horse truck drivers, farmers who grow feed, jockeys, pre-trainers, trainers and re-trainers. So many people you know have a connection to this vital industry and our showjumping class is open to you all if you have an off-the-track thoroughbred to compete on.”

Gerry Harvey and Katie Page-Harvey at the 2023 Magic Millions showjumping and polo at Doug Jennings Park on the Gold Coast. Picture: Celeste Humphrey

Nature Strip galloping at Royal Randwick Racecourse in March. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

The jump height will be 90cm, making it more accessible and safe for newer competitors who will qualify at events in Toowoomba and Sydney.

Professional showjumper Michelle Lang-MacMahon, who, with husband Peter, owns training facility Kolora Lodge, said inclusion of showjumping alongside polo had introduced both sports to a wider audience.

“Things like this have opened up so many opportunities and people are now a lot keener to get racehorses off the track because there’s an incentive with the programs the horses can now go into,” she said.

“There’s a huge variety of events where we can compete them in their own section.”

The QOTT program was established in 2021 following the Martin Inquiry to provide a high quality first transition for thoroughbred and standardbred horses from racing and breeding activities to retirement.

“The inaugural series will showcase the versatility and athleticism of thoroughbreds in one of the many pursuits that retired racehorses embark on their life after racing,” QOTT chair Christine Johnson said.

Originally published as Magic Millions 2024: Showjumping gives racehorses new path to success