Magic Millions showjump class gives retired thoroughbreds new life

Former racehorses like Nature Strip will be given a new chance to compete in a different sport.

Showjumper Michelle Lang-McMahon, left, and jockey Kathy O’Hara with Ned O’Reilly ahead of the Magic Millions showjumping event. Picture: Luke Marsden

He may have retired from racing but 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.

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.

Nature Strip could find a new competitive career. Picture: Jeremy Piper

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

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.”

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

“Things like this have opened up many opportunities and people are now a lot keener to get racehorses off the track,” she said.