Author: Paris Ingegneri

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.

The Equimillion event, held over the October long weekend, was a powerful showcase of the incredible potential of retired racehorses, highlighting the results of much dedication and training.

Team Thoroughbred NSW, proudly watched as several of its graduates stepped into the arena to compete. For these former racehorses, once celebrated for their speed and stamina on the track, Equimillion offered a chance to shine in entirely new disciplines. This year’s event not only demonstrated their remarkable transitions but also underscored the vital importance of giving these deserving animals a fulfilling life beyond the racetrack.

Ten Team Thoroughbred graduates competed in this year’s Equimillion Event, with several placing within the top five across multiple events. The graduates included Rough Copy, Ricochet Bullet, Bringagem, Pit Bay, Sweeping Brook (third place in the EVA 65 Amateur), Bobs Cooltoo (placed second place in the EVA 65 Junior), Kuiper Belt (fourth place in the CCN1* Open Eventing), Sichuan Chief, and Gamesmanship (second place in the EVA 65 Amateur). Each of them demonstrated the remarkable versatility and talent of thoroughbreds as they transitioned into new careers.

One standout performance came from Gamesmanship, ridden by Melinda Ryan. Despite a few challenges, including pulling a shoe the day before Equimillion, Melinda kept to their regular routine to maintain Gamesmanship’s calm and confidence. “We maintained the same schedule, inclusive of riding and feeding, to avoid making him anxious. We typically ride every single day, provided the weather cooperates,” she explained. Their dressage on Friday helped shake off any nerves before the main event. Melinda reflected on his progress: “During our dressage he felt fine. Of course, there were plenty of things we can work on, but it’s been amazing seeing how he’s taken on his role as an eventer after only being with us for just over a year. His show jumping was pretty good! We were pretty fresh but I like knowing that he feels good about himself. Much the same with cross country, he’s a very difficult ride but he’s very trusting and a gorgeous soul.”

Another memorable performance came from Kuiper Belt, ridden by Elsa Ribal-Vigneau. Following a standout victory at Equimillion the previous year, Elsa entered the competition with high expectations for Kuiper Belt. “Kuiper Belt’s victory at Equimillion last year set the bar high for this season, so we came into the competition with great expectations.” Elsa described the journey as one of continuous growth: “I’m incredibly proud of how far he’s come since I adopted him from Team Thoroughbred. It’s been an amazing journey, and his progress continues to amaze me.”

As the event wrapped up, it was clear that all the graduates who competed had made significant strides since their time on the racetrack. The hard work of their trainers, riders, and supporters was evident in every performance, from those who placed near the top to those who made remarkable improvements along the way.

The Equimillion event is not just a competition, it’s a celebration of the incredible potential of off-the-track thoroughbreds and the commitment of those who believe in their second chances. Team Thoroughbred NSW is proud of all its graduates, and this year’s success at Equimillion is a testament to the lasting impact of retraining and rehoming retired racehorses.

Equimillion 2024 Results: https://equimillion.com.au/results2024/