Former racehorses change track for a new life in polo
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.
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.
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/.
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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