There’s no Loafing around for Arnold
After a steady racing career under Canberra trainer Keith Dryden, much-loved gelding Loafing – affectionately known as Arnold – has traded the racetrack for the world of eventing, thriving in his new home with dedicated owner Lucy Bolton.
A familiar sight at Thoroughbred Park, Loafing had 32 starts for 3 wins, 1 second, and 3 thirds, earning over $66,000 in prize money.
Known for his lovely temperament and big frame, Arnold was easy to handle and a favourite around the stable. Keith Dryden purchased him as a tried horse in November 2019, and he retired from racing in December 2023.
Lucy’s connection with Arnold began long before he left the track.
“I was lucky enough to work with Loafing his entire racing career in Canberra,” Bolton recalls.
“I got to know his unique personality and even rode my first gallop on him.”
“Towards the end of his career, Keith and his partner Trish Buchanan gave me the opportunity to give him a home after racing – something I’m incredibly grateful for.”
Since his retirement, Arnold has been slowly introduced to eventing, a sport that combines dressage, show jumping, and cross-country.
He had his second eventing start last weekend at the Wagga Wagga Horse Trials in Narrandera. Lucy’s goal is to progress through the levels together, building both confidence and skill.
Arnold lives in a herd of around 20 horses, including two other Canberra-trained off-the-track thoroughbreds, one also from Keith Dryden’s stable.
He enjoys regular work, trail rides around Canberra, and the companionship of his paddock mates.
Signs of his happiness and wellbeing are easy to spot.
“He comes to me when I call, he enjoys being ridden, and physically he’s looking great thanks to regular farrier visits and bodywork.” Bolton says.
One of Lucy’s favourite moments so far was competing in the Equimillion New Star Thoroughbred class at Sydney International Equestrian Centre last year.
“It was such an amazing showcase for retired thoroughbreds and a special milestone for us.” she says.
Still the same cheeky character he was in training – famous for walking backwards on the walker – Arnold is proving that life after racing can be just as exciting as his time on the track.
With his eventing career just beginning, there’s no doubt this big, loveable gelding has a bright future ahead.
Photo credit: Britt Grovener Photography
Media Contact:
Robbie Ringland, Head of Commercial & Communications, Canberra Racing Club M: 0439 832 972
Becci Sciberras, Communications & Marketing Coordinator, Canberra Racing Club