Former racehorses change track for a new life in polo

FORMER Irish racehorses that have changed track for a new life in polo were the stars of three tournaments this summer after being sourced by trainers and owners from an initiative designed to rehome and retrain thoroughbreds.
Polo Wicklow will host the opening tournaments of the 2024 season in the all-weather arena and the grass field

The number of former Irish racehorses resourced through Treo Eile is growing as more find successful careers in polo

The best of them that have successfully passed through retraining as polo ponies after leaving their racing days behind were recognised at tournaments hosted at polo clubs in Bishopland, Kildare and Bunclody in Wexford as well as at Curraghmore, Waterford by the non-profit, Treo Eile, the organisation that has supported their transition from the racecourse to sport horse disciplines including polo.

Training Award recipient Kristina White at the 2022 awards ceremony, presented by James Kennedy of the IPF

Former Irish racehorse Lumiere owned by Tom Small (far right) is enjoying a new career in polo with riders Jennifer Doyle and Dario Gutierez

An online resource at https://www.treoeile.com/ for racehorse trainers and owners who wish to rehome and retrain their thoroughbreds for new careers, Treo Eile connects horses in ‘another direction’ towards owners among other sport horse disciplines.

The 2024 season will open with the Novice Cup in the arena at Polo Wicklow

Irish thoroughbred and former racehorse Lady Gaga, a shining example of successful retraining was the Best Playing Pony at the Bunclody Polo
Club tournament, Kieran “Bottle” Doyle (l-r), player Dan Laverty, owner-player April Kent, player Juan ‘Johnny’ Hearne and groom Marcos Cormac accepting prizes from Treo Eile

Look out for the Treo Eile badge at tournaments and events across the country offering prizes for the leading thoroughbreds and donate online to support at https://donate.taptodonate.io/.

The 2024 season will open with the Novice Cup in the arena at Polo Wicklow

Bunclody Polo Club president Kieran “Bottle” Doyle presented the Treo Eile award for low goal Best Playing Pony Clever to owner John Corbett

Article by Kim Mullahey

Image credits: Kim Mullahey

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