Show Horse Western Australia’s Horse and Rider of the Year Off the Track Feature
The first weekend of September saw the State Equestrian Centre filled with show horses for the Advanced Feeds 2026 Horse and Rider of the Year event. Off the Track WA proudly sponsored several classes dedicated to Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds.
The night kicked off with Fashions on the Field, split between Thoroughbred and Standardbred. These classes were filled with exceptionally well-turned-out horses and colourful, patterned dresses fit for the races or the runway!
Then we moved into the led classes, with Led Standardbred first. The judges were left with the difficult task of choosing between some stunning horses, a testament to breeders in Western Australia and the competitors working to ensure their horses are best presented. After viewing each horse walk and trot out, the winner was awarded to Rich American, a beautifully put together gelding by American Ideal USA. Runner-up was then awarded to Folsom Prison, the striking big grey gelding by Lombo Pocket Watch and third to Major Martini, by Art Major USA.
The Led Thoroughbred was another strong lineup of horses presented. Venturo by More Than Ready stole the show with his beautiful paces and calm temperament, a testament to his handling and nature considering this was his first show. Runner-up was awarded to regular OTT competitor and champion, Victime De L’amour by Al Maher.
Then we transitioned into the ridden classes, broken into three sections: Standardbred Walk and Trot, Standardbred Walk, Trot and Canter and Thoroughbred Ridden.
The Walk and Trot Standardbred class saw three entrants. With beautiful workouts and dazzling presentations, the judges struggled to choose but ultimately awarded the prize to Rich American, winner of the Led Standardbred class, after a faultless workout. Runner-Up was awarded to Folsom Prison, with third to Playing the Fool. Congratulations to these competitors on their effort presenting their horses.
The Walk, Trot and Canter class was won by Major Martini, ridden by Hannah Griffith. After an extensive career on the track with over $300 thousand won during racing, it’s good to see Major Martini hasn’t lost his winning streak. Hydrotest won the Runner-Up award, ridden and owned by Rachel Brockless, who produced a lovely workout.
The largest class of the night was the Thoroughbred ridden. With an exceptional line-up of horses entered, each workout was watched carefully by the judges to find any standout performances. This was won by Lascia Star once again for the fourth year in a row after a foot-perfect performance under the guidance of Lauren King. This mare is exceptional in her behaviour and way of going. Runner-up was awarded to Victime De L’amour again, adding to his long list of accolades off the track, and third to newcomer, Imperial Frontier with Richard Rice after a beautiful workout.
Celebrating retired racehorses in new careers, we’re thrilled to have supported a wonderful night of shiny coats, perfect presentations and beautiful paces.
