Local Cup runners and their life after racing

Team Thoroughbred NSW is home to many retired racehorses who are looking for their forever home. Their purpose is to provide care and retraining for any and all horses in NSW and the ACT that can’t find a home. Canberra’s last Canberra Cup winner, Almost Court is one of these horses. The formally Joseph Jones-trained gelding currently lives at Bart’s Farm, the Princes Farm where the legendary Bart Cummings used to operate from.

Almost Court entered the care of Team Thoroughbred NSW program in late December after departing the Joseph Jones stables at Thoroughbred Park. The 2018 Canberra Cup winner has formed a bond with new best friend and paddock mate Stampede.

Almost Court has recently started ground work and will soon be reaccessed for what post-racing life will suit. A life of dressage, horse therapy or simily companionship awaits. Former Trainer Paul Jones think’s he’s ex-galloper is perfectly suited to a life as a companion horse.

“He’s got a lovely personality” Jones said. “I’m not sure how he’d go in the other disciplines but he’d make a great companion.”

“Team Thoroughbred NSW send us updates periodlically and it’s very satisfying to see him happy and thriving. Some of the initiaives they have are so benefical for both the horses and but also the community through their work with PTSD sufferers, the police and also the correctional services.”

Unlike former neighbour Almost Court, Todd Smart’s Great Glen did not win his go at the Canberra Cup starting at $201 before finishing ninth from 10 runners over eight lengths behind the winner. His life after racing see’s him still contributing greatly to the Smart Stable.

Since retiring Great Glen acts as a ‘lead stable pony’ where his calm nature helps Smart’s other horses during training and race day.

“He helps educate some of the younger, less relaxed horses.” Smart said. “He’s such a laid back horse and he loves the stable life so it made perfect sense to keep him around once his career had ended.”

The now 9-year-old gelding was born in the UK before moving to Sydney, then Melbourne, then Canberra.

“He’s travelled the world and just takes everything in his stride. He’s a much loved member of the staff here.”

Photo: Almost Court after winning the 2018 TAB Canberra Cup. Credit: Bradley Photos

For more information please contact Mr Andrew Clark, Canberra Racing Club Chief Executive Officer, by phone on (02) 6204 0000.