Everest winning racehorse Nature Strip makes equestrian debut

One of racing’s most successful thoroughbreds, Nature Strip, has left the sprinting behind to take on a new journey which could even take him to the Olympic Games.

He beat the best sprinters in the world and now former racing superstar Nature Strip is facing a new challenge - as a showjumper.

One of racing’s most successful thoroughbreds, Nature Strip, has left the sprinting behind to take on a new journey which could even take him to the Olympic Games.

The 2021 Everest winner has joined a line of former racehorses ditching the whips for a new line of work in equestrian.

Over 500 horses competed in yesterday’s Equimillion competition, with the event’s executive officer LaToyah James finding the showcase a method to prolong the careers of former racehorses.

“The key and most important thing for us is that there is a second career for the horses,” Mrs James said.

“It gives them a pathway into equestrian and gives them a chance to excel at many different aspects, different to just racing.”

Former jockey Kathy O’Hara and retired racehorse Nature Strip compete in the New Star Thoroughbred Showjumping Class of the Equimillion 2024. Picture: Max Mason-Hubers

Nature Strip made his debut yesterday at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre at Horsley Park, which welcomed ex-racehorses over the long weekend to extend their careers.

He competed in the 80cm New Star class and finished 12th out of a field of 35.

While the competition is only in its second year, the organisers are looking to ensure owners and their horses are able to continue “winning,” even without racing.

“Equimillion in itself is Racing NSW’s $1 million event which is exclusive for retired thoroughbred racehorses,” Mrs James said.

The winner in each class gets $15,000 in prizemoney, second place earns $7500 and third takes home $4000.

Kathy O’Hara poses for a photo with retired racehorse Nature Strip. Picture: Max Mason-Hubers

Nature strip has gone from Everest Winner to potential Olympian. Picture: Max Mason-Hubers

After attracting 300 horses at its first event last year, 520 participated this year.

Mrs James said the organisation plans for the event to be the biggest on the equestrian calendar.

“The event is becoming known as the Everest of the equestrian world,” she said.

The long weekend’s turnout was a massive first step in establishing itself as a top equestrian competition.

“It was a huge success,” Mrs James said

“A great venue to host the competition which allowed us to pack in heaps of fans, and create a real buzz for our competitors.”

Organisers have found the sport of equestrian has been rewarding to its new participants - Not just for the horses, but their owners as well.

“For a long time the owners and trainers are putting a lot into the horses, but it is no secret racing doesn’t last forever,” Mrs James said.

“It’s rewarding in the sense that all involved get continued recognition, a chance to be celebrated and still have an opportunity to make good money.”

Nature Strip’s appearance was a throwback to his days of being crowned Australia’s racehorse and sprinter of the year from 2019-2022.

After conquering Australian racing, the gelding took on the best of Britain, winning the King’s Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot in 2022.

He was officially named the world’s best sprinter in 2021 and 2022.

After a racing career spanning 22 wins from 44 starts and $21m in prize money, Nature Strip retired in 2023.

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