Success stories Retrained racehorse crowned British Dressage Bronze Para Champion

By Elizabeth Johnson

On 22 August, my former racehorse Vegas Boy and I were crowned the British Dressage Grade IV Bronze Champions at the British Dressage Summer Para Championships. This achievement highlights the incredible versatility of former racehorses. Vegas Boy, trained by Jamie Osbourne, had a successful racing career with four wins and nine placings before seamlessly transitioning to para dressage. He performed exceptionally, winning both of his warm-up tests and then the championship title.

We only started competing in para dressage classes in April, so riding at Hartpury felt like a baptism of fire! However, Vegas Boy (fondly known as Boycie) took it all in his stride. He’s unphased by anything and always gives his best effort. As someone living with multiple sclerosis (MS), riding Boycie makes me feel like I can fly, and he has become an essential part of my life, especially with the challenges of balancing my veterinary degree and upcoming chemotherapy.

Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) has been instrumental in our success. The educational events and clinics provided by RoR have been crucial in Boycie’s retraining. Their sessions offer a supportive environment with expert instructors who understand the unique needs of Thoroughbreds. Alistair Parkin, in particular, has been vital in our retraining journey, focusing on basics like straightness and suppleness to transform Boycie into a successful para dressage horse.

RoR has also enabled us to compete in showing classes, such as the Thoroughbred Show at Burgham International Horse Trials, organised by Marcia Thompson. These experiences have helped Boycie gain confidence in high pressure environments and prepared him for national level competitions.

Without RoR’s training opportunities and support, I truly believe we wouldn’t have achieved this incredible milestone. Their events have been the foundation of our journey, and we are deeply grateful for all they have done to help Boycie shine in his second career.

Haven’t joined us yet? Sign up for free and access education, training, and a supportive community of former racehorse owners. Whether you're registering a horse or just joining, membership is easy. Take part in events, webinars, and camps, and stay informed with the latest RoR news from your region.