Goldmine Sax | Emma Struck Gold with Hank.

2008 gelding Goldmine Sax, is by former Heytesbury stud stallion, Saxon. Goldmine Sax did not match the success as his sire, racing in two trials for no placings before trainer John Wills retired the gelding in 2013.

In 2019, Emma Harper came across an ad for Goldmine Sax on social media and decided to have a look. Emma visited the gelding, who had been out on spell for several years, and bought him then and there. Goldmine Sax was christened with the stable name, Big Hank to match his personality and tall height.

Following a full work-up to ensure Hank was fit for riding, Emma began working with him under-saddle.

“Hank was extremely fresh for the first few months. Loved to bronk, couldn’t trot straight, was very unbalanced, and only cantered left. I knew I had a challenge and at 17 hands high, he knew his size.” Emma explains.

Although the first few months were tricky, Hank showed he had a big heart and once he had built his trust in Emma, the pair were away and running.

Emma recalls their greatest achievement together as going double clear at the 2020 Wallangarra ODE in the 65cm class. It was a first for them both, and Hank proved he was a talented jumper. The pair have since moved up to 80cm show jumping and are striving to achieve another clear round.

When Hank and Emma aren’t jumping, they are either galloping along the beach, practising their horsemanship skills, or attending adult riders. Hank is also very kind and careful with the young riders that he is often lent too. Emma spoke of how much joy it brings her to see Hank with younger riders, showcasing his superb temperament and nature.

In 2023, Hank and Emma plan to try their hand at endurance riding, competing in ARCA challenges at Adult Riders and attending more Off the Track WA clinics and events. We look forward to seeing them out and about in 2023.