Ruth Carr Racing | Where are they now

Retired Racehorses

Here at Mowbray we try to find our horses a new home when they have finished racing. It is important to match them up with a compatible rider. Ruth wanted the public to know that contrary to popular belief racehorses can do another job after racing. So it was nice to receive an email from Dan who had followed Sharp Hat through his racing career.

Hi Ruth - just wanted to say you have done a brilliant job with your 'Where Are They Now?' page - it was lovely reading all the stories about some of my old favourites - not enough trainers take the time to update the public on the retired stars of the sport that we follow year in, year out and occasionally we wrongly fear the worst, so I just wanted to express my gratitude! Well done, and keep up the good work! Dan

Here are some of the comments and pictures of horses previously trained at Mowbray, some of them are nearly household names that won a lot of races and others just didn't make the grade!

Fan Club

We paid a lot of money for Fanny when we bought him from France with a good maiden win under his belt. However, talented as he was Fanny didn't enjoy his racing and although we tried everything we didn't have any success. He has now joined Faye near Darlington who is reschooling him to event. For photos of him at Mowbray Farm see the Ex Racehorses For Sale page.

24th May 2010 Faye text:- "Fan Club all settled. He was busy showing off his flashy paces to my two boys but grazing happily now."

1st June 2010 Faye emailed:- "Apologies for not being in touch... Fanny is being a little superstar. We've only been hacking him out for the last week but he has been fab and taken it all in his stride. He's settled in really well at the yard and follows my two boys round - if they are in he wants to come in too. I'm going to do some flatwork with him tonight and then we are going to a showjumping lesson tomorrow night so fingers crossed! Definitely think he's the kind of horse who likes to be doing lots of different things. I'll keep you posted as to how we get on tomorrow night!"

4th June 2010 Faye emailed "I just thought I would let you know how Fanny got on this week. His flatwork needs quite a lot of work but once he relaxes he has some really nice paces... And as for his jumping - wow! We had a bit of an issue getting started as he wouldn't go over a pole on the floor but once we got going he was fab. He is very nappy on his right rein and would just plant himself but I think we got there in the end. He jumped his first ever filler and only had one pole down in the 45 minute lesson. We are off cross country schooling on Monday..."

16th July 2010 Faye updated "Fanny is getting on really well thanks. He finally mastered the half halt last night which I am thrilled with! We went to a little showjumping competition last week and only had one pole down at 2ft 6”. I’ve got the Baileys nutritionist coming out today as we are struggling to keep the weight on him but apart from that all good!"

Just Thomas

We'd had Thomas since he was a foal and trained his Mum and Dad so it was important to us that he went to a really good home when we realised that he wasn't going to make a racehorse. Sam Roylance from near Manchester bought him to share with her two daughters. For photos of him at Mowbray Farm see the Ex Racehorses For Sale page.

15th March 2010:- Sam text:- Travelled no problem at all, he's settled in his stable and eating. I'll keep you updated and send you pictures very soon.

1st Arpil 2010:- Sam text:- Hi Ruth, Thomas is doing fine. We've done a couple of small hacks and some schooling, he's a star. We love him to bits. He's putting on weight already and his coat is now coming out so he's looking lovely. He's really good with my girls.

Lunar Storm

Louy was expensively bred by the Arabs but unfortunately was never fast enough to make a racehorse and after several tries Ruth ended up taking him hunting and cross country schooling. He is now being schooled to be part of Team Ride Away's Teamchasing team. Louy earns his corn by leading the young horses on the gallops!

28th March 2010:- Team Ride Away competed in their first Team Chase at the Fernie near Market Harborough. We jumped round clear and had wonderful day. Louy was fantastic and cleared all the fences without any problems.

2nd April 2010:- Team Ride Away travelled to the Warwickshire Hunt team chase near Banbury and were delighted to finish 2nd in the Speed Novice Class. Louy again was a star and jumped bravely and quickly - at times leading the team!

11th April 2010:- Team Chases have finished until the Autumn season but Ruth and her Dad, Stephen, took Louy and Coco to a Hunter Trial near Pontefract for some practise. Not as good a day as at Banbury but horses and riders still learnt from the experience!

18th April 2010:- After knocking Coco's confidence the previous week we took Louy and Coco to do a Pairs Class at Epworth Riding Club near Doncaster. Louy led and we manged to win the class

20th May 2010:- Louy is having 6 - 8 weeks off and enjoying living out and having his rug off before coming back into work ready for the Autumn Team Chasing Season.

Strong Approach

Strong Approach, or Sid, was in training with Ruth's Dad at Ride Away and was sold to Eddie to hunt with the Sinnington. To see pictures of Sid before he was sold go to Ex racehorses for sale.

15th March 2010:- Hi Ruth. Just a note to let you know how Sid is doing. My friend Eddie bought him from Rachel shortly after I bought "Monty". However, Eddie felt a bit over horsed at the time so loaned Sid to me to see how he would do as a hunter. Well, I am delighted to say that he went brilliantly all season with the Sinnington. Jumps anything asked of him with room to spare and very well mannered, a total joy to do both in and out of the stable. Totally laid back. He did so well that Eddie finally took him hunting the last 2 weeks and has had an absolute blast on him. Sid is a total confidence giver and I am so thrilled that his new owner has found a true gent of a horse in Sid. Photos attached for you. Regards, Berenice

Natural Rhythm

Norman won 5 races in all and retired from racing completely sound after finding it hard to be competitive in all age races. Tamsin and her Mum, Nicky, from Stokesley are going to retrain him as a Junior Event horse. Go to ex racehorses for sale page to see pictures of Norman whilst still at Mowbray House.

22nd February 2010:- Tamzin text:- "Norman arrived safely and travelled well, he's looking around his new stable and refusing to eat a late lunch. He seems reasonably settled."

Sun Of Spring

Ruth was delighted to hear from Louise about a horse called Sun of Spring that Mr Chapman and then her Dad, Stephen Clark, used to train in the 1990's. Mr Chapman bought him in May 1997 for £2200 at Doncaster Sales for my Dad. We ran him 9 times on the flat where he won two races and Ruth rode him in Amatuer Riders races on the flat being placed 4th four times! He then swapped stables and went to be trained by Stephen and Ruth rode him over hurdles where he was 2nd twice, 3rd once and 4th twice. He last raced for us in August 1999 and Stephen found him a home locally. The photo is of Sunny winning at Musselburgh.

12th February 2010: - Louise emailed "Your Dad sold Sunny to a friend of my Aunt's for her daughter, they did love him very much but he proved to be a little too cheeky for them to cope with. I had always had a soft spot for him so offered, if ever they needed, a home for him I would be glad to have him. It wasn't long before they got in touch and I picked him up and brought him home. That was back in 2001. I live near Leicester. He was not quite sound when I got him and he does have a bursar on one of his fetlocks. We had him scanned and xrayed and luckily it was just a strain and he was sound within 6 weeks. I was concerned he might not come sound but we did everything we could and it payed off. Touch wood he has never been lame since!! He had a bit of a sore back so he had treatment for that but nothing serious. He has regular check ups much to his disgust! He is not a fan of being massaged!!!

I did lots of research on Sunnys racing days. I got in touch with his breeder and he was thrilled to hear he was still going strong and invited us to his stud in Newmarket for the day. I met Sunny's elderly mother and his 3 half sisters. He gave me a couple of pictures of him racing as a youngster and a few as a foal which was wonderful.

I did manage to get a copy of one of his races at Nad Al Sheba which is fantastic to see him as a 4 year old. I got all his racing past from Weatherbys which is great. I also have quite a few races with you riding!!! Great to watch.

He is still full of life, I did try to retire him at the end of 2009 but he was having none of it! He turned into a beast and was not a happy boy! So I bought him back into work and he loves it. I keep him on a small yard where the owner trains event horses. It is a lovely place and Sunny is so happy there. He is nanny to the youngsters on the gallops and has taught lots of babies just how to gallop!! It is still his favorite pass time and he still gets so excited every time the lorry starts up! I reschooled him when I first got him and with time and patience (lots of it!) we ended up competing in dressage. He has never been keen on SJ but he does try his little heart out, he just thinks that fillers are monsters that might bite him! With lots of practice (and much to everyones shock) we ended up eventing. As you can imagine, xc was his best phase, we always had to be careful we didn't got too fast and get told off!! We did quite a few of the ex racehorse classes and he did brilliantly although we were asked to leave the ring once when he spent the whole class on his back legs!!! We have slowed things down now, we do a little bit of dressage to keep him happy and he loves being nanny to the babies. We still go cross country schooling with the babies, we just miss out most of the jumps apart from the water.....I think he was a fish in a previous life!!

Anyway, sorry for babbling on but as you can tell he is my best boy and very much loved."

Maiwand

We bought Maiwand from Sir Mark Prescott in Newmarket but unfortunately she wasn't a very fast racehorse! Geoff from near Glasgow bought her to retrain her as a Polo Pony.

20th January 2010 Update:- just a quick email to say Mai has settled in very well, very bright little filly, well handled and a real pleasure to work with.

19th February 2010 Geoff emailed "Mazie is just about to get scalped (clipped), and become an argentinian polo pony look a like! Really sweet filly, very giving and quick to learn. Training going well, will send you pictures in few weeks."

Lady (homebred roan filly)

This homebred roan filly didn't make it to the racecourse through no fault of her own and is now being retrained as a Polo Pony near Reading.

28th December 2009 Update:- She is settling in well and has made good friends with the other horse she travelled with. She will come into work at the end of January, so will give you an update then.

30th March 2010 Update:- Just wanted to give you an update on the filly we purchased from you. She is now playing polo! She is doing everything we'd expect of a horse this far into their training. She is still a little nervous on the ground, but she is lovely and quiet to ride.

Just The Lady

Lady came to us from Dandy Nichols' yard where she had won 4 races but she didn't race for us. Lady has found a lovely home with Jessica and James in Dorset.

12th December 2009 Jess text "Hi Ruth, got Lady home safely, she travelled like an angel for over 6 hours! Starting to get dark so didn't go out today. Trying her out with the mares tomorrow, if that doesn't work out she's going to share a field with another filly."

31st December 2009 Jess emailed " Hi Ruth, Yeah I had a fab Christmas, how was yours up in snowy York? Heard you had LOTS of snow there? We had none:( Bournemouth never really gets any!!!)

I was actually going to email you next week as we're booked in with our equine dentist, saddler and farrier and let you know how she gets on. Lady has been a real star- we are so pleased with her, she's settled in very well and loves going out with the girls-so much in fact that if she is first to come in she can be a bit of a nightmare to catch! I think Lady recognises me as mum now as when she sees me she calls for me (or maybe her breakfast) :) She is such a gentle girlie-James has no problems bringing her in, washing her legs off, changing her rug etc.

We haven't had any problems other than the occasional (I think twice)10 minutes catching her and slight mud fever on her white sock which has now cleared up.

I'll email you again next week. Oh and HAPPY NEW YEAR.

8th January 2010 Jess emailed " Hi Ruth, Just a quick email to let you know how proud we are of Lady. The vet came out to do her teeth, flu and Tet vaccinations and could not believe that she was only 4 years old! Lady was so well behaved and so calm even though she was in all on her own as her friends were all in the field! As it was our vets first visit they checked her over and commented on how healthy she is, scoring her 3 out of 5 for condition which I believe is good (5 being overweight). She has gained 20kg since coming to us, which I am really pleased about considering how cold it is.

The saddler has been put off until the weather is better as everywhere is like an ice skating rink I wont have her clipped until we are doing something with her. Farrier next if he can get here!

28th January 2010 Jess emailed " Hi Ruth, Just a quick email with a few photos of Lady. Lady is coming along fabulously- ver the last few weeks I have been lunging her and walking her out on the roads with a friends pony. She is brilliant in traffic and is less spooky than my friends 10yr old pony!!! Lady now has a full set of shoes on and I'm sure it will come as no surprise that she was brilliant with the farrier too! James kindly took some photos today of lady showing off her lovely, light on her feet, paces which i have attached. I am thrilled to bits with her and personally I think she is going to be a star! Jess James and Lady (the star)

29th May 2010 Jess emailed " Hi Ruth, Lady is coming up beautifully now, starting to work in an outline without an aid and showing some real potential especially for a 4 year old! She has turned out to be quite a hyper and excitable girl and did manage to put her back out for a few weeks which did set us back a bit. I've put her on a magnesium calmer (Nupafeed) which has really worked so think she just needed some extra magnesium (Especially with the amount of spring grass down this way)! Until recently we've mostly been hacking-building her up with a little light schooling. Shes fantastic out on the roads with company but not on her own yet... We have gone on a few short rides but as soon as we head for home she tries to nap and throws tantrums (sometimes rearing, bucking) all the way home!!! My instructor comes out once a week now and i'm hoping it wont be long until we can start taking her to a few local shows... maybe a little prelim dressage test!? We haven't jumped yet as trying to get our flatwork right first but can't wait:)
Anyway enjoy the photos, see if you can recognise her... Jess xxx

Kanisorn

We bought Kanisorn, a very tall horse, after he had won 20 races in Italy. He finished 2nd for us 5 times before he went to another trainer. In May 2009 Andi and his wife Lorraine contacted Ruth to let her know they'd aquired Kanisorn. He'd fallen on hard times but Andi and Lorraine soon got him fighting fit and are hoping to hunt him come the Autumn.

24th November 2009 Andi emailed "Hi Ruth, sorry it's taken me so long to get back to you, been really busy at work and with the big fella. Kani has turned out to be the most wonderful, kind and loving horse that anyone could possibly wish for. We have found his niche, he absolutely adores hunting. I have to admit that after a few false starts trying him at local shows in the Race Horse to Riding Horse class, where he stood on his back legs and span round 3 times!!! I was more than a little wary of taking him hunting, no problem, he has taken to it like a duck to water. We have now been out 8 times with The Worcester's and had serious offers for him from several people. He is not for sale and never will be, he is my sole mate. If jumping a hedge he feels you slipping he will throw his shoulder up and pop you back in the saddle. The attached pictures are autumn hunting on my 50th birthday, he was my present from the wife. Please feel free to put them on the where are they now page. I'll try to keep in touch more often and send some more pictures."

24th November Ruth asked Andi about Kanisorns joints as they had shown wear and tear whilst in training.

His joints are fine, he only ever shows a little sensitivity to his right front pastern, with cold water. The back man did query a small amount of arthritis in his left stifle, but that was pre muscle. He is now fine and shows no ill effects from 4-5 hours hunting except let's go again! The boy is magnificent, every body in the yard loves him to bits and he loves them. Lorraine only started to ride in January, she rides Kani regularly and he knows it's my mom and I behave! When dad's on it's time for fun and I love it!

A little story you may enjoy;- On the first cubbing I was in the position to let Kani have his head for the first time, on a bridleway about a mile long. We took off a at a rate of knots and about 250 yards from the end, the exocet missile kicked in! We stopped (just) as we hit the road, to be greeted by Ian Franks, Hunt Master, with the immortal words " are you ok? sh*t that was fast, is he for sale?" after a moment to recover I said "fine thanks, but no".

All of our joint masters now expect to have Kani at their side or to have him on point, he loves either. I am being badgered to 'point' him in the members race at Chaddersley, I think that he would rebel, so no.

20th May 2010:- Andi emailed - We are off to have a go at some cross country this summer, pics and comments to follow, we are also going to do some racehorse to riding horse comps.

Diamonds Darling

We broke Di (now called Flora) in but unfortunately she didn't make it to the racecourse. She is now with Holly who is bringing her on to event.

26th October 2009 Holly emailed "'Flora is doing very well. Looks great and has a great attitude to her work. Very pleased with her"

19th November 2009 Holly emailed "Flora is having the winter off to do some growing. She is still being a dream to deal with. Before she was turned away she was happily working in the school. I will email you some photos as soon as she is back in work"

1st April 2010 Holly emailed "Flora is still so lovely. She is in at night and out during the day at the moment. Still growing! Eek! 16.3hh now. She is now starting to become braver with the other horses. Waiting for spring grass to help her put on a few pounds. She learns very quickly and is a real mummies girl. Watch this space, she is going to be a star! I really can’t thank you enough for letting me have her!"

20th May 2010 Holly emailed - Please find attached one half decent photo of Flora now back in work. She is still being a gem, a real yard favourite. I will keep you up to date. Fingers crossed we will be going out to a party or two this summer. Thank you again for giving me a truly wonderful little horse. x

Ice Planet

Ice won a lot of races for Dandy Nichols and Ruth found him a home with Jackie and her daughter Katie.

21st October 2009 Jackie emailed " Ice settled in great.. Had his feet done, been clipped, had mane pulled. Injections done yesterday & teeth done today. Only person he took a dislike to was the farrier (who is a very very nice man).. They ended up having to cold shoe him because he was very naughty. Hopefully next time he will be good. Biker loves him & they go out together with katie leading them both. He loves little paddywack as well & I promise I will get some piccies of them both next couple of days. Katie been riding him & hes been a little angel. Lunges well in pessoa too. All in all he seems to be a happy boy so far with us. It's great to have a horse you can brush & cuddle without watching where the teeth are. (Biker is such a grump) & hates brushes but we still love him the same. Anyway just thought I would let you know that he's happy, eating well & a good boy for us."

18th November Jackie emailed "Ice still being a good boy by the way. He's brilliant. Went to a show on Sunday & was a very good boy.. Got his first rosette in 2nd place in ex racer ridden...what a star.Katie loves him to bits."

24th November Katie emailed "Just a quick email and some pics, he's been a good boy :) came 2nd in his first ridden show schooling well, we've even jumped a couple of cross poles although i dont feel jumping is a great talent of his haha. hacking out better now because 1st time he was naughty but now hes in a stronger bit we seem to be getting there, anyway hope u like the piccies.

3rd January 2010 Katie emailed "Ice still behaving - his schooling has come on great, and he loves his hacking. He came in a bit lame the other day as he had a lump on his shoulder but vet put him on bute for a few days, coming back on tuesday but he seems a lot better."

5th January 2010 Katie emailed "Weather not too bad for us, horses still managed to be turned out although they are ready to come back in after an hour, riding wise not too bad either as we have an indoor school, waters a bit of a pain get it from big water butts when the taps are frozen its just so cold, ice and biker in 3 heavyweigt rugs and are only just warm enough."

19th February 2010 Katie emailed "Ice is really well yeah. He's a star, his schooling has come on loads. He's fab out hacking - nothing bothers him. Took him for a gallop other day - dont think I'ev ever gone so fast! Haha! But then took him out a few days later and he just cantered nicely behind the others. His jumping has come on loads too, still only doing small x poles but hes picking up a lot better. Yeah he's Fab! :) xx

Mont Cervin

Monty didn't make a racehorse but showed a willing attitude to do another job and found a home with Berenice.

12th November 2009 Berenice emailed "Just thought I would give you an update on Monty. he is doing fantastic. I let him down slowly and turned him out for most of the summer so he could get used to his stable mates and gain some condition after racing. Brought him in and into work, road work and flat work with a little jumping. I cubbed him only 3 times and yesterday he did his 1st days full hunting and I am delighted to say jumped out of his skin. Everybody was remarding on what a beautiful horse he was and couldnt believe he was only 4 and only a few months out of racing. His manners were mostly impecable he as was expected did get a little excited but was very managable. I was on a total high when I got off him and feel with more work on flat work and grid work in the school he will hunter trial and 1 day events no problem. He is a darling in and out of the stable and I hope to have him for many a year. I will forward you some photos whenever I get a chance. Thanks once again for giving a racehorse a 2nd chance and I am so delighted that I own him."

Headland and On The Trail

Headland and On The Trail both one lots of races when trained by Mr Chapman and found a home togeather with

31st December 2008 Caroline emailed "Hope you are all keeping well up there. You'll be pleased to hear that the boys are doing just fine. Ed (Headland) is now a little jumping star. He's clearing 3 foot no problem at all so he'll be competing next year. Ty (Trail) is being schooled for dressage and will hopefully be competing too next season."

24th October 2009 Caroline emailed " I thought I'd drop you a quick line to let you know how the boys are. Headland (aka Ed) has taken to jumping like a pro!! I have a little rider for him called Amber who loves him to bits and we'll be doing some competing over the winter. He's also doing some dressage and competing once a month. On the trail (aka Ty) is still a fiesty little man but is putting his willingness to please and sheer elegance to good use in dressage. I do a little jumping with him now and again but it tends to blow his mind a bit so I'm currently working on getting him calmed down enough to concentrate on what he's doing.

20th November 2009 Caroline emailed " Here are some photo's of Ed jumping last night. The young lady riding him is Amber. She part loans Ed and sometimes rides Ty too, as well as their new lil sister Storm :) I'll take a look at the website and will keep you posted."

Watermill

Walter wasn't fast enough to make a flat racehorse and then sustained a hind leg injury when he tried Point to Point racing. He was a lovely ride however and found a good home with Sharon from near Sheffield. Sharon text, " Hi Ruth, just to let you know, Walter has settled in brilliantly now, what a gentle giant. The write up you did was so true, I can do anything with him. Even Lee is very confident around him and he is usually quite weary!" See horses for sale page for pictures of him before he left Mowbray House.

Avanti Tiger

Avanti is a lovely chunky, laid back type of thoroughbred and has found himself a wonderful home with Melanie from Bramhope, Leeds. Mel text "Hi Ruth, just to let you know he has settled in and had his tea, he played in the school for a while and my saddle fits him. I will keep you updated. Thanks again." A week later. "Hi Ruth, I have been riding every day, we lunge for five minutes first then he is good, we don't need much leg as he responds well. We are very happy with him." See horses for sale page for pictures of him before he left Mowbray House.

16th October 2009 Mel emailed " At last the pictures of Avanti for you. We are just getting back on track with him after a year off injured. He is doing well and getting fitter by the day, although he prefers to hack out over being schooled. I am going to continue to light work with him over winter and then may do a little dressage next year as we are now on a dessage yard. We have also bought a warm blood as a friend for him and they get on very well and are always together. Hope you like the pictures."

Watertight

Watertight better known as Edward was so laid back he didn't make it to the racecourse. He has now found a home in Scotland with Kirsty and her partner Patrick. He is being schooled with the end goal being eventing. Kirsty text "Edward has settled in fine! As long as his hay rack is full and he gets his dinner he's happy. He feels like part of the family already! Gets on fine with my other two in the field as well." We look forward to seeing him in Horse and Hound in a few years time! See horses for sale page for pictures of him before he left Mowbray House.

11th November Kirsty text "Just to let you know Edward went very well during his first dressage test, coping very well with the occasion in general! He was 13th out of 29, very respectable considering he is only just getting to grips with the whole hack canter malarky!. Thanks again for a wonderful boy!"

26th May 2009 Kirsty emailed "Just a little update on Edward. He went to his first outdoor show yesterday and behaved brilliantly, he was placed first in the ex racehorse class, 5th in the novice working hunter even though he was very green jumping the course and was 3rd in the open working hunter after that. So over all a very successful day! He has his first x country on the 14th June so hopefully this will go as well. He is still getting placed almost every time out in dressage as well. Sorry no pics as yet, will try and work out how to do that! In the mean time there are some pics on line, some of them aren't great because it was a big event and when he is uptight or spooky he tends to tilt his head a bit but have a look anyway they are at if you click here."

20th June 2009 Kirsty emailed "Just a note to say Edward did quite well at his first x country, quite green but tried everything! Cleared all the small jumps by at least a foot!"

13th July 2010 Kirsty emailed "Just thot I'd send you a little update regarding Edward. He is getting better all the time, Just starting eventing this year again after his 1 outing last year, he loves his XC round, in fact he is getting too strong and brave these days."

Newsround

Newsround had to retire from racing due to a knee injury but he was sound enough for hacking and was sold to Sarah from Rothwell near Leeds. He has been reschooled and is now doing very well in the Ex Racer classes. Sarah said " He is absolutely fab! He got two 4th in in-hand classes and his first ridden class was ex racers which he won hands down." Well done to Sarah and Newsround. See horses for sale page for pictures of him before he left Mowbray House.

23rd October Sarah emailed "This is Trevor (formerly Newsround). He's looking fantastic now, taking him to his first hunter trail on Sunday so fingers crossed I may have some more pic's for you then."

11th November Sarah emailed "Hi Ruth, Just to let you know Trev was fab at the hunter trail, only one stop at some scary barrels which was a double! I'm very happy with him, don't think i have ever known such a genuine, well mannnered horse. He truely is one of a kind!
Unfortunately he has a bit of an infection in his back leg at the moment but had the vet and should be cleared up soon enough. He's such a sweetheart to have around! Thanks again."

26th May 2009 Sarah email " I sold Newsround at the beginning of this year to a lovely family who are absolutely in love with him and I'm sure he has a home for life with them now. She uses him mainly for hacking but does the odd jumping competition which I am been told he is doing fantastic in and getting clears. She has two young children which he is fantastic with as he has such a sweet temperament and they can trust him even with their youngest. They also have changed his name again, he is now called Red."

18th June 2009 Rebecca emailed " Hi, I am the new owner of Trevor but I had to change his name he is named Red. He is just the best, we are just hacking, he has done a jumping class and was clear. He has a long way to go yet but we are getting there. He had a problem with his feet as they were so flat and he could not keep his shoes on for long but now he has gel feet and they are fab. Many thanks. Rebecca"

Cryptic Clue

Cryptic was a bonny little horse who was eager to please. He went to Emma from Peterbrough as a years project with the view to selling him on. She said "He travelled home really well and has settled in amazingly well. Every one keeps saying how they can't believe he's an exrace horse because he's so relaxed and such a gentleman." Cyptic has recently begun entering small competitions and at his first, which was showjumping and he got four clear rounds and a 5th in the 2ft class and a 3rd in the 2ft 3 class. We look forward to hearing about his progress. See horses for sale page for pictures of him before he left Mowbray House.

23rd October, Emma emailed " Hiya Ruth. Cryptic Clue, now renamed Woodie by my Mum, is getting on really well. We have been and are currently entering weekly shows to build up his confidence and ability in his new home. Most recently we have entered working hunter classes where we were placed 5th out of 20 at 2'3 jumping, showjumping which is going really well and he seems to enjoy most, we were placed 3rd. He also seems to a nack for showing in racehorse classes. Dressage which seems to be his least favouite, he seems to be doing the best at, being placed 2nd in ourfirst test. I have included some pictures of the working hunter class, us jumping for the first time and our first competition together."

16th April 2009, Emma emailed: Heya Ruth, just wanted to let you know how Cryptic and me are getting on. We won our first showjumping competition a couple of weeks ago, only 2'3, nothing major but was good for us. It was also our first time away from the yard and first time for us in an indoor arena. He took it all in his stride but i swear he thought he was going to race when we got there because he wouldn't stand still :D I have also recently made a break through in that now he is rounding nicely into an outline and building muscle in new places. He looks completly different than when we got him. I'm planning to take him cross county soon and aiming to start eventing by the end of the year with a one day event as my target. Thank you for selling me such a super horse. Emma

25th April 2009, Emma emailed: Wwe are entering some race horse classes on Bank Holiday Monday and hopefully we will qualify for the regionals. I don't currently have any new decent pictures but here is a link to video of me and Cryptic jumping so you can see him in action. Emma Click here to see them in action.

19th May 2009, Heya Ruth, just another quick update. Cryptic and I entered both ridden and inhand showing ex-racer class the other day and was placed second in both and have now qualifed for the championships in october at Arena uk. Thanks once again for such a fantastic horse. Oh and i took him jumpcross the other day which is similar to cross country and he loved it and jumped everything! Emma

17th August 2009, Hi Ruth, just a quick email to let you know how Cryptic is getting on and to say thank you for such a wonderful horse. He has improved greatly in confidence and ability and loves to work althought he can be a bit awkward from time to time (but what 5 year old isn't!). We have recently taken part in a jumpcross competition which was a great success for his first time. He has also been placed first in our last 4 working hunter competitions with fantastic coments from the judges. Also he hs recently been xc training and took to it really well.. jumping all the jumps with no hesitation. We have our first British eventing one day event booked for the end of August at Milton Keynes so hopefully he will be just as good. I have included some pictures of him and a video of the jumpcross. Thanks again. Emma. Click here to view the video.

9th June 2010 Emma emailed:- " Hiya Ruth. Well what can i say... this year has been fantastic already, thanks to the fantastic horse you sold me. He is simply amazing and we couldn't ask for more. So willing to please both whilst being ridden, in the stable and to handle. And I do believe that is thanks to you and your handling of him.

We have started eventing now, done a few events this year and been completing double clears in most of them with him flying round the XC, He just seems to love it. The dressage aspect leaves a bit to be desired, only because he knows jumping is coming so gets excited. :) We are also making great progress in pure dressage comps. Now competing at Novice level scoring in the mid 60% which i am extremly pleased with because it is my weak area. Also we have qualified for the Trailblazer championships in showjumping so will be making our way to Stoneleigh at the end of july for 3 days of fun.

And showing, Well the judges seem to love him, We have now won our last 4 classes in ex-racer showing and have quallified for the TARRA championships and ROR champions of champions so hopefully the run will keep up for them. Thanks again for this horse, I have attached some pictures and a link to my youtube page where there are videos of me and him at some comps and that if you are interested in seeing :) Click herehttp://www.youtube.com/user/emmada001

Thanks Emma

Jabraan

Jabraan was a handsome boy who loved to jump. He is now being schooled for show jumping by Vanessa from near Derby who emailed "Yes, he is great, he loves my other horse, follows him round! He seams very happy, not grumpy in stable at all. So looks like he likes his new home. Not riden him yet, want him to settle in first. I will let you know he is geting on later in the week!". We look forward to hearing more news on Jabraan. See horses for sale page for pictures of him before he left Mowbray House.

Star Prize

Star was a gentle horse who found a home with Tracy. Unfortunately he hasn't done much yet due to a bad infection in his leg and a stay at the vets. Tracie says "He's sound and receovering well. Will be sure to update you and send some pics soon." See horses for sale page for pictures of him before he left Mowbray House.

19th December Tracy emailed: "Hi Ruth. Sorry it's been so long since I was last in touch! Just thought I'd send a little update on Star. What can I say, Star by name, Star by nature! He's such a gent and will do absolutely anything asked of him (apart from walk over drain covers!) He recovered brilliantly from his tendon sheath infection, and has been totally sound ever since. He loves his work, and especialy loves hacking out, he thinks it's all a great adventure! He's schooling really well and starting to work in a fab outline, I'm considering trying some dressage with him but as I've not done dressage before we'll be learning together. He really does have the kindest nature and is an absolute gentleman. Although he does have a cheeky streak and loves to try and push me over if it's muddy! He's lived out all winter so far and has kept his condition so well, I can hardly believe it for a TB... he's so woolly it's ridiculous! He certainly likes his food and can be relied on to tell you when it's tea time! I'll send some photos soon when he's less of a muddy mess (how do they get it under their rugs??!!) Thanks again for a fantastic horse Tracy"

Paddywack

Paddy is now in the care of Laura Lucas in West Yorkshire. Paddy was stable star and raced for us for nearly 10 years. He was a real favourite with the girls in the yard. He won 21 races and £127,036 in prize money. It was very important that we found a good home for Paddy and we were delighted when by word of mouth we matched him with Laura who is one of the founding members of the Ex Racers Club. Click here to find out more about the Ex Racers Club.

Photos from left to right show Paddy while he was still in training. With Ruth and Mel in the winners enclosure on a wet Autumn afternoon at Redcar after winning his 21st race! Enjoying a paddle. Searching for the grass under the snow!

Laura text "Paddywack is a star, he came 2nd in his first dressage competition. He is such a lovely lad, big personality makes up for little body! He will never leave here - he has melted my heart." Ruth is delighted Paddy has found such an excellent home for the rest of his life as he one one of her favourites.

Pictures show Paddy being ridden by Katie who helps Laura with her three retired racehorses.

11th May 2009 Laura text "Paddy is going fantastic. Em is competing him as she gets a better tune out of him. He loves all the attention and is a right little show off. He has qualified for the championships in October. We love him dearly - definately a golden boy!"

19th May 2009 Hi Ruth, I really like that part of your website (Where are the now) - its nice to see what the horses are doing after their racing careers. Paddy is just a amazing little horse, really coming along nicely and is willing to try anything. He's a cheeky little thing that likes to get his own way but i love him to bits. Will keep you updated on his progress. Thank you. Emma

23rd october 2009 Emma emailed "Thought I'd send you a update on Paddy as I haven't in awhile. He's doing great, still very much the golden boy and getting away with murder. We've been doing abit of jumping with him and he's doing great. He wants to learn to jump his own way though and doesn't take much notice of me but that's Pad all over. He's such a brave little horse and does try anything you ask of him, he can throw a buck when he finds stuff difficult but to be fair its funny more than anything. Not that we'd let him know that!!!! I've found as long as we have a sense of humour with him you cant go wrong. I cant fault him if im honest he's a amazing little horse and I wouldn't swap him for the world. He's picked up this riding horse life so well its hard to believe he ever ran a race never mind won any. We are doing some dressage at middleton park in November, which im really looking forward too. I'll let you know how that goes. We are also going to arena UK in December so got that to look forward to as well. I've attached a couple of photos. The white pony in the photos is my other boy Dillon. They don't share a field but are stabled next to each other and get on well, though they get jealous of each other sometimes. They are both attention seekers!"

Earthling

Earthy found a brilliant home with Anne Chambers near Pontefract. He is now better known as Bertie and is about to embark in a career as a side saddle show horse! Anne says of Bertie " He's doing really well. Earthy/Bertie been re-schooled and I've had him out today over level crossings, trains, mowers, hedge trimmers abfab! Went to the national side saddle show at the weekend at Addington Manor in Buckinghamshire with my grey Rocky. He really did good, felt like really special in the indoor international arenas with the top hat , habit, veil etc and spotlights. Hope to do the same next year with Earthy Bertie. Will be doing dressage this winter. He was a real star today. He saw loads of things that he's not seen before and did not put a foot wrong. When we got back to the field he stood there with his face in the conversation with myself and my friends making a real contribution to the discussion. Thank you!! He's a star." See horses for sale page for pictures of him before he left Mowbray House.

4th April 2009 Anne emailed: Hi Ruth. We are doing our very first show tomorrow. We've had a go at dressage and now i want to see how we fair in company. Had the side saddle on him and intend to do that in competition very soon. He is really brill and so quick to learn. He's not at all like a thoroughbred is reputed to be. He really is a gent and as calm as anything. If he does get upset it is only a fleeting emotion and he is back so quicky. Love him to bits!! My older horse of 18 yrs has had major surgery last week. He had colic but it just got worse and at 9.00pm saturday we had the vet out for the second time that evening. She sent us to Liverpool and at 2.00am we arrived and they operated on him to find three fatty tumors on his intestine.... so scary!! BUT he's home now stitches are out and he has to have 8 weeks box rest and 8 weeks small paddock - any way so glad that he 's at home now. I will send some photos soon - good luck with the racing. I told Bertie that he wasn't running in the National today but he didn't seem bothered.... but then again he wasn't a jumper but he could have had a good picnic on the hallowed turf!!!! All the best love Anne and Earthy Bertie!!

12th April 2009 Anne emailed: We didn't go (to the show) in the end but.. da dahh.. been today to a little local show.. he looks so good! I let a young lady, who is a really brill rider, have a go just to see how he went!!!! WOW show hack or what!!!!! I rode him in the novice show horse and got a 4th and Holly rode him around for me to see him move... he really is a star.. he was fab BUT!!!! didn't know what to do when the other horses were going in the wrong direction towards him... we only go one way on the track!!!! A beautiful handsome horse full of character!! PS My old boy has been at Liverpool for emergency surgery for colic which wasn't colic but tumors growing round his colon..got him home now but we were really worried... 4 months rest then he can do things again.. of course he thinks that he can do everything now.. silly old boy. LOVE HIM TO BITS!!! All the best, will keep you up dated. Love Anne and EARTHY -BERTIE XX

26th May 2009 Anne email "Bertie really fine, did dressage last weekend saturday and sunday. He did good and got a 1st and 3rd on Saturday then freaked out on the Sunday. It was a really busy show and there were kids runing around and horses going in all directions to him and he got a bit scared. But he coped well and he will be better next time. All the best Anne and Bertie!! X

Inflagrantedelico

Flag found a home with Vicky near Mansfield. A couple of days after we delivered him Vicky emailed "Just to let you know Flag is settling in just great, he as made friends with Pogo and Mullberry - they make him look tiny ha ha! We will be doing some gentle work to start, I've fallen in love with him". See horses for sale page for pictures of him before he left Mowbray House.

17th March 2009 Inflagrantedelico has changed hands since he left us. His new owner emailed -

My name is Nic and we are just outside Mansfield, my Mum and I jointly own "Murphy" as he is now known. He joins my daughters 2 ponies Monty and Casper, both are very young and so they all frolic well together. Our plan for him is to enjoy hours out hacking and eventually be able to hack out with the girls on their ponies too. Longer term we may look at some endurance and possibly some jumping, who knows. But at the moment our main aim is to do some quality schooling with him and get some basic "riding" done... I have attached some pictures, however the aren't great, I will get some more to you soon and keep you updated on his progress.

15th February 2010 Nic emailed "Thought it about time to upate you on Murphy's progress, for your "where are they now page" - its almost a year that I have had him now.

Well its been an eventful but trying year!!

A couple of days after my last update, Murphy received a bad kick, whilst turned out, we nearly lost him as he went into shock, thanks to my mums previous knowledge of "mardy thoroughbreds!" she luckily saw the signs early enough to get the vet in quickly, just as he was about to "go down!!" We and he was very lucky that day. Never the less, he was completely out of action for a good 12 weeks (box rest only for 6 weeks of it too) - what a start to our relationship!

He recovered eventually and then the work needed to start, the poor year he had previous to coming to us, had come out and his condition was awful - build up time and slowly, slowly does it. I had to organise a "suitable escort" for him as he absolutely refused to hack out alone and became so naughty in the school. So, I threw caution to the wind and hacked him out at every possibility and slowly we started to regain trust and belief and steadily we were able to take the lead on hacks and actually start enjoying them. Although when he was naughty on the road, I soon started to realise that he was just panicing (a soothing pat and calm words sorted it all out) and ridiculously, if I said "CAR", he instantly stopped acting the idiot and waited for the car to pass !!!!! OH I get it, you're taking the mickey, Murphy!!!....... That was it, Fun now, Fun all the way, let's just get out there and ENJOY ourselves - so we did.

He now hacks out with my daughter on her ponies, and more often than not, is the lead horse. I have started to pop him a little in the school, but mainly out on hacks - He seems to love jumping.

Recently, he has developed a new love - BUCKING, I ask for canter, we buck, I ask him to slow, we buck, I ask him to trot (off road), we buck!! He is getting so excited about the FUN in riding out, he just can't stop showing his excitement (please stop Murph - my backs killing, I don't know how I stay on sometimes)

We have a few "full on Gallops", took a bit of getting going, was very hesitant to let himself go at first, but when he realised the pony was winning, he eventually got the idea!!! Bless him... (actually its since then that we have developed the bucking) Hmmm

My 2 daughters, Leah and Sophie, are obsessed by him. Leah in particular loves taking every opportunity to get on him, and he behaves so well for them (just saves his antics for me - he knows mummy too well)..

We are still a long way off, but getting there really slowly - hoping that at some point this season, he'll make it to some shows (im thinking jumping), just not sure what he'll make of it, I think the first time out - we may do well to just get in the ring - but I am willing to be patient and give him all the time he needs - providing we keep going forward a little, im happy..

We'll get there together - Happy Riding!!!

Some photos attached - but none of me actually riding, why does no one take photos of me... Some WILL be on the way soon!

Redoubtable

Redoubtable was know as Herbie or Herbert around the yard. He was an absolute gent who raced and covered mares at the same time. He is one of only two horse post war (I think!) to win on the flat at the age of 14. In total he won 21 races and nearly £150,000 in prize money. He is now in the care of Trudy at End House Stud near Clitheroe in his new job as a stallion. He is also doing very well in the show ring. Qualifying for Olympia and winning numerous hack classes and Championships. To find out more about Redoubtable's showing and stud carreer click here.

Charlie Chan

Charlie Chan was a lovely lad to have about the yard but was far too laid back to make it as a racehorse. He is now in Hampshire and is just about to start competing. See horses for sale page for pictures of him before he left Mowbray House.

Charlie Charlie Charlie

22nd June 2009 Diane emailed " If you remember we bought Charlie from you but then he was sold after reschooling to a lovely home in Hampshire. His new owner has always kept in touch giving me updates on his progress and he was getting on really well. Some bad news though I am afraid, he started rearing for no apparent reason and he had the usual checks done and after xrays they have found he has arthritis in his neck of a 30 year old horse unfortunately. His ridden career is obviously over but she has loaned him to a friend as a companion as he has such a lovely temperament. Didn't know if to let you know or not but I know you do like to hear how they are doing.
I am assured he will have a lovely home where he is now and loves his companion friend!"

Torrent

Jim and Jill Allen have been the proud owners of Torrent, who won us 11 races, since October 2007. Torrent went to his first show and won the inhand ex racehorse class! Jim said "He was brilliant and trotted up beautifully for the judge, showing off his beautiful paces and then stood before the judge with his right front leg in the air! He does this at home but we always thought his was begging for a mint or carrot!". Torrent is now quite a regular at the shows in the North West and is always in the ribbons. On the 30th May 2008 Torrent (and his girlfriend Inca!) joined other members of the Ex Racers Club to parade at York Racecourse in between races. It was a wonderful chance to show the general public that racehorses can do another job when retired from racing in the right hands.

23rd October Jim emailed "Just thought that I would give you an update on how Torrent went on at the Ex Racers Championships over last weekend. He was placed 4th in hand in the Newcomers and 6th in hand in the Open. I have to say that these were great results considering the number of horses involved and the standard of the horses. There were horses from all over the UK with the winner having travelled from Plymouth. Bob Champion presented the rosettes which was a really nice moment. In the ridden classes he was placed 9th out of 19, which was again a good result considering the standard. Torrent is going to the Festival of Champions at Aintree on Saturday 1st November so we will try to get some photos of him there for you."

10th November Jim and Jill emailed "I have been promising you some new pictures of Torrent and I managed to get some of him at the Festival of Champions show at Aintree last weekend. Torrent went to the Ex Racers Championships at Arena UK three weeks ago and managed to get a 4th in the In Hand Newcomers and a 6th in the In hand Open, which were good results considering the number of horses competing and the standard was very high. In the ridden he was placed 9th out of 19 which for Torrent was very good as he still has a lot to learn about showing. At Aintree he was placed 4th in the In Hand and the pictures I have attached are from that class. He was entered in the ridden class but the class was supposed to be seven hours after the in hand and I did not want him standing in a trailer for that length of time, so scratched from the class, which was just as well because it didn’t actually start until 10.30pm!! I hope that you like the pictures of him. His head picture I think is stunning. It is a rather quiet time now with showing and I am going to have to start thinking of what I can do over the winter to keep him from being bored. I may try some easy dressage with him to keep his mind active. I will let you know how he goes and will send you any pictures I get over the winter."

31st March 2009 Jim and Jill emailed:- Just a quick update on Torrent I took him to his first dressage test yesterday and he got a 3rd place with a mark of 53.4%. I was really pleased with him. I don’t think he realised he was doing a test and he probably thought he was doing some schooling!! We then took him to friend’s place for him to have a hot bath and solarium. He is hopefully going to the local show next Sunday to do the ex racers classes again. Will keep you up to date.

11th May 2009 Jim and Jill emailed "We took Torrent to Beacon Show today and he won the In Hand again. It was the trophy show and he won the same last year so he has retained his title!! He was unplaced in the ridden class but the judge was very complimentary about him and said that considering his racing history and record he performed really well and considering he was up against horses that have competed at Hickstead and county shows he is doing okay. It doesn’t matter that he comes away empty handed sometimes as he is learning all the time. Love him to bits! Jill took Inca in the In Hand Veteran’s Class and got a second. You should have seen the smile on her face coming out of the ring. The results for Torrent and Inca have now qualified them for the Festival of Champions at Aintree in October. Hopefully we will get some more results in the next few weeks."

17th August 2009 Jim and Jill emailed " Just wanted to let you know how Torrent went on at Mottram Show on Sunday. It was a step up in class for him and was an agricultural show of county standard so we went just in hope really. He was in the TARRA (Thoroughbred and Retired Racers Association - open to any throughbreds registered with Wetherbys) In Hand class and won it. This qualified him to go back into the ring after the ridden class to compete against the first and second from that classs for the championship and he only won that as well! He came away as the show Champion with three firsts rosettes and a Champions rosette along with a Blue Chip hat and prize money as well. It's the first prize money he has won since leaving racing. He is a superstar who just keeps getting better. His manners are fantastic which is obviously down to being looked after when he was a youngster. Your grandad and you have a lot to do with that so I have to thank you."

20th May 2010 Jim and Jill emailed " Hope that you and all your family are well. See you have been having some decent results and hopefully they will continue as last year for you. Just thought I would update you with progress with Torrent, who is very well and really enjoying life at the moment. I took him to Mottram Spring Show two weeks ago which was another qualifier for the TARRA Championships to be held at Newmarket in August, whilst the race meet is actually on that same weekend. He got a second, which was another qualified place for him, as he qualified with a first at the end of last year at the same show. He will be doing another qualifier at Warrington Show at the end of this month and possibly another qualifier at a show near us in July. I am going to be taking him despite the fact that it will be a 400 mile round trip and will probably need us to find stabling for him on the Friday night as the finals are on the Saturday, but he deserves his chance. Secretly I think Jill wants to watch Westlife who are on after the evening racing on the Friday night, which is why she is so keen for me to take Torrent for the Saturday!! Hopefully you might have some runners there on the Saturday and we can meet with you so you can see how he does. Other than that he has been chilling on the grass and been out on the beach. He loves the sea and loves to paddle and get drenched and wet all those around him too. We have recently purchased a Bedford horse box to transprt him about now and to give us a bit of luxury and chill space."

9th July 2010 Jim and Jill emailed "Just a quick update about Torrent. He went to Warrington Show a couple of weeks ago for the TARRA In Hand class. It is a very big show with qualifiers in all sorts of classes and loads of horses there. He was in a big class of ex racers and was initially stood 7th, but when the judge heard about his past race record and he did his individual show he was moved up to 4th. What a star! We are away on holiday in France for the next couple of weeks so he will be getting a well earned chill out. When we get back he will be working everyday to get him looking good for the TARRA Finals at Newmarket in mid August."

Reason

Reason is now with Bev Duncan and her daughters pony. He is beautifully bred and went throught Tattersalls Newmarket sales for 1.2 million guineas as a yearling! Bev says " We have been trying to school him, but this awful summer weather has made it difficult. He hacks out brilliantly. He is still very sweet and is very intelligent and really tries hard for me. He is still like a puppy following me around the field and he certainly likes his food but isn't over weight!!".

Bev was kind enough to send me these photos after Reason's first day at the beach. She said " Reason is such a trusting horse - I remember when I first got him I was off him more than on him, leading him through puddles and streams, through hedges, under bridges and over ditches, now however he takes everything in his stride. He is also such a good trusting horse, so much so, that my 8 year old daughter has ridden him and works well with him. He has also been ridden by a 14 year old - he's brill. He wasn't sure (about his fist visit to the beach), but did really well - we took it slowly, walking and trotting." Reason's friend is called Smarty!

15th March 2010 Bev emailed:- Reason is now being schooled and is coming on great. He even jumped a couple of crosses which is excellent progress!

Sundried Tomato

Tomato is now in the care of Julie Houghton. Now better known as Tom he won 8 races and over £60,000 in prize money. Julie said via email "He's doing great, I have started doing Parelli with him, which he is getting a bit clever at some bits, I ride him round in a Parelli halter which has no bit and just one rein, who would think i could be doing that with him! I must be mad or what! He's great fun and we do have some fun together, I never thought I could find a horse like Tom, my goal is to ride him bareback and no bridle on, hoping to do something with him next year. Still working on his schooling and jumping but I've got loads of time so I'm not rushing him. Thanks for letting me have such a wonderful boy." We look forward to seeing the photos of Julie riding Tom with no bridle!

19th May 2009 Julie emailed, Tomato is great -a very very mummies boy! He has to know where I am if I'm on the yard, and likes to be next to me. He stands and watches me as I go down the road and hates it if i go on yard but don't put him away for the night. Iwent to Florida and he was grumpy while I was away. I.m still working on his Parelli, Ii ride him in his halter but still working on my no bridle.. one day. He's so cheeky and so much fun...............love him to death.

14th June 2009 Julie emailed " Hi Ruth, thought you would like to see this, its Tom and me doing our Official Audition Level 1 for Parelli. It's on you tube. Click here to see them in action. Just waiting to hear our results. Julie x"