A Skilful Hunter in the making

Horses have a way of choosing their people and this was ever present when Skilful Hunter met Taylah Hurren. Despite initially purchased as a mount for her sister, it was not long before Taylah began to work with Skilful Hunter and quickly fell in love.

“What started as helping train a horse for my sister turned into finding my heart horse,” fondly recalls Taylah.

Racing across a year long career with ten starts and three trials, Skilful Hunter proved to not be quite as ‘skillful’ in racing as hoped. He was retired from racing in July of 2021 ready to begin his off-the-track career.

Following retirement from racing, Skilful Hunter was referred to around the stable as “Douglas”.

Douglas is a quick learner and took to his life off the track with ease. His laid-back nature attributes to the success of his transition from racehorse to riding horse, now competing in show jumping and dressage.

“Douglas has a lovely personality and is a special horse with his own little quirks.”

“He is willing to learn, enjoys attention, and builds trust with people around him.”

Though cheeky at times, Douglas has a loveable personality which has strengthened his partnership with Taylah. This strong connection has helped them overcome health struggles following diagnosis of kissing spines and arthritis in hocks. With hard work and perseverance from Taylah and her support team, Douglas has been successful in returning to work and is back out competing.

“Seeing him feeling good, enjoying life and getting back out there has been the most rewarding part of our journey together.”

Douglas’ diagnosis threw a spanner in the works for Taylah, but this did not stop them from pursuing their dreams. Through their journey together, they’ve taught each other valuable lessons which have helped Skilful Hunter to flourish in his life after racing.

“He’s taught me that success isn’t just about competing or jumping bigger heights, but about keeping your horse happy, comfortable and enjoying their job.”

Taylah hopes to continue to move up the grades with Skilful Hunter in the show jumping arena, whilst building confidence and maintaining his willingness to compete.

“I’d love to get him out eventing next year to see how far we can go together, taking everything at his pace and prioritizing his wellbeing.”

Off the Track WA wish Taylah and Doug all the best for their continued partnership and look forward to following along with their results.