by Michael Howard
A 12km trek to the Toolleen Hotel was a trail of success for the HRV HERO (Harness Education and Rehoming Opportunities) program, with 11 standardbreds making the journey, 10 of which have been successfully retrained post-racing.
HRV CEO David Martin and program ambassador Larni Salathiel were among those to join HERO manager Tanya McDermott on the trek, which included winning racehorse Majestic Ess Jay, who remains in work.
The ride was a further show of strength for the HERO program, which has re-educated and/or rehomed 105 horses since July 1, 2016.
“Sunday’s ride was a great demonstration of the standardbred’s level head, adaptability and willingness to take on new challenges,” Ms McDermott said.
“Half of the participants had never previously ridden their horse, and four of the horses were having their first outing in a large group and over an extended distance.
“The horses were fantastic and proved themselves entirely trustworthy in an environment where there is no doubt the breed excels – it’s hard to imagine a more perfect way to spend a relaxing Sunday.”
Among the group were recently gelded stallions Tiz A Masterpiece and Hes Kinky and three-time Group 1 winner Villagem.
They represented the great diversity that has benefitted from HERO’s touch, having retrained horses of varying ability.
In addition to the 105 successfully re-educated or rehomed, 30 horses are in transition with the program’s 24 registered retrainers and a further 31 are awaiting placement.
“The HERO Program’s ongoing success is due in no small part to the financial support of both the Victorian State Government and Harness Racing Victoria,” Ms McDermott said.
“Without the widespread backing of the industry, however, HERO would not be possible and everyone from owners and trainers to breeders, administrators and kindred bodies can take a bow.”
Mr Martin made the trek aboard HERO ambassador Villagem.
“Villagem was fantastic to ride and it was great talking to people who are so passionate about standardbreds, particularly their lives after racing,” Mr Martin said. “The HERO program is making an important contribution to the industry’s broader efforts to care for standardbreds throughout their life.”
For more details about HRV HERO go to www.hrvhero.com.au
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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