Confidence restored through Roy’s bond

Some horses capture the heart not through their racing record, but through their spirit, quirks, and the bond they create with the people who love them. Battlers Boy, known affectionately as Roy, is one of those horses.

Roy’s racing career was brief, with just a couple of outings. His final start came at Queanbeyan on 26 February 2023 in a 1000m Class 1 Handicap, where he finished at the tail of the field. 

Just 10 days earlier he trialled over 800m at Goulburn, also finishing last, despite showing flashes of speed and athleticism, it wasn’t enough to make an impact.

Trainer Becky Byrne, who purchased Roy as a five-year-old from breeder Emmanuel Notaras, was smitten with him from the start.

“I fell in love with him at first because he’s grey. He was quirky under saddle, full of energy, and always wanted to go fast."

“Even though racing didn’t work out for him, he had so much character. We absolutely loved him, especially my daughter, Elle.”

Roy was a cheeky boy around the stables. He’d steal feed buckets and proudly parade them around, demand cuddles, and even kept his handlers on their toes after bolting with a rider once. 

But as he matured, he settled into a calmer version of himself, still spirited, but with a gentler edge.

“He was always athletic and willing to prove himself. He had ability, but his condition held him back. Off the track, he’s matured into a special horse with so much love to give.” Byrne reflected.

The next stage in Roy’s life began when Grace Moore, a 16-year-old, took him on. Grace had lost confidence with her previous horse, but Roy changed everything.

“Since having Roy he’s built my confidence back, especially jumping. Before him I was always so nervous, but now I’ve found a horse I can trust, and truly love.”

Grace was first drawn to his soft grey coat, but it was his gentle and patient personality that sealed the connection.

“He’s so willing to try new things. He’s careful, but brave, and he always wants to work with me as a team.”

Together, Grace and Roy are focusing on showjumping, where he seems to have found his new passion. 

Grace looks for signs that he’s thriving, his enthusiasm to do his job, his consistency, and his affectionate whinnies, especially at feed time.

Roy has brought plenty of joy along the way. He waves his leg around with excitement at dinner, rummages in pockets for extra treats, and has a surprising sweet tooth for licorice, not carrots.

“Every day there’s a new favourite moment, no matter what, he makes me laugh, smile, and always cheers me up.”

Grace’s hope is simple but heartfelt, a relationship built on trust, teamwork, and shared joy. 

For Roy, his racing days might be behind him, but his new life is filled with affection, adventure, and the chance to shine in a different arena.

From a late-starting grey with a quirky streak to a showjumping partner and confidence-builder, Battlers Boy is proof that not all battlers are defined by the racetrack.

Media Contact: 

Becci Sciberras Marketing & Communications Coordinator, Canberra Racing Club