Volpe | The Peaceful Life of Ollie

Volpe by Foxwedge retired from racing in 2023. After a long and successful career of country racing, Volpe retired with 58 starts, six wins, ten placings and just over $217,000 in earnings. He’s since ventured into an off-the-track career with owner, Shenae Tilbee.

Living a peaceful life in his second career, Volpe (also known as Ollie) is now used for pleasure riding and dressage, with plans to eventually venture into eventing.

After enquiring about another horse who had already been sold, Shenae was sent an image of Ollie and was immediately interested in the handsome gelding. It was love at first sight, with Shenae quickly booking a truck for Ollie to be delivered to her the following week.

“It is risky buying a horse sight unseen and without riding him first, but in this case, it has worked out in my favour.”

Ollie arrived and spent the first few months gaining weight and working in-hand to build a relationship with Shenae. Their first ride together was exactly what Shenae had hoped for.

“Riding him for the first time was amazing. You couldn’t wipe the smile from my face!”

Although busy with two children and working part-time, Ollie remains a gentleman whenever Shenae finds time to squeeze a ride in. He is also a great mount for Shenae’s young children, who also love to have a ride.

“He can be sitting in the paddock for weeks and be pulled out for a quick lead down the driveway with my girls onboard and he is a lamb. He even walks slower for them and is very tolerant when they insist on practicing their trotting.”

Since joining the Tilbee family, Ollie has become a family favourite. They attended their first dressage show together and came away with a third-place ribbon in the Prep A. Despite the wild wind and rain, Ollie was well-behaved and received some positive comments from the judges.

Off the Track WA wish Shenae and Ollie all the best for their future together and hope to see them out jumping and continuing to enjoy their dressage.