From Track to Turf: Dixie’s Winning Second Life

Four years ago, Jack Archibald spotted a striking retired racehorse advertised on Instagram through Racing NSW’s Team Thoroughbred program. Drawn in by her athletic build and calm expression, he saw potential in the bay mare—formerly known as Mikkeyday—now rebranded as Dixie—as a future star on the polo field.

“I loved the type of her,” Jack said. “I thought she was going to suit polo perfectly, and the process with Team Thoroughbred was really straightforward. I got in contact, and the rest is history.”

Since then, Dixie has blossomed in her second career, seamlessly transitioning from the racetrack to the high-speed, high-skill world of polo.

“Her temperament is probably her best asset,” Jack explains. “That made the transition easy. Within two or three weeks, she was already getting the hang of it. Of course, we take things slower than racing, so it took about 18 months until she was competing at a really high level.”

Her progress has been nothing short of impressive. In 2024, Dixie was awarded Best Playing Pony at the prestigious Ellerston Polo Tournament, one of Australia’s premier polo events.

“That was a huge highlight for me,” Jack said proudly. “To have a horse that I trained and purchased be deemed the best in the tournament—it was pretty special.”

Currently based at the Scone Polo Club, Jack and Dixie have been active on the polo circuit this season, with a string of strong performances. Most recently, they were part of the winning team for the MK Milne Trophy, further proving that this retired racehorse still has plenty to give.

Looking ahead, Jack hopes to extend Dixie’s legacy beyond the field.

“She’s my best horse, so she’ll continue playing in the two polo seasons each year. And hopefully I’ll be able to take embryos and breed from her, to produce something just like her.”

Dixie’s story is a shining example of the life and success retired racehorses can find through the Team Thoroughbred rehoming and retraining program. With the right care, environment, and a bit of patience, life after racing can be just as thrilling.

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