Graca De Lago | Off the Track Story

West Australian bred mare, Graca De Lago retired from racing in July 2025 after three starts. By Safeguard, this pretty little grey was the smallest on the track, standing at only 14.1 hands high during her prep. Being the smallest on the track meant she had it tough, but she still gave it a good try.

Purchased direct from trainer, Jayce Buckley, Graca De Lago landed in the loving arms of Jessica King.

“When I first met Graca, I didn’t like her and she didn’t like me. Thankfully, she loved my partner who she was originally purchased for.”

Intended for a lengthy spell, Graca got the call up to attend Swan River Horse Trials when Jessica’s main horse unexpectedly went lame. With only a handful of rides under her belt and three and a half months off the track, Graca was green and fresh but willing to give it a go!

After whizzing around the dressage arena, Graca and Jess tackled the show jumping phase to claim an unexpected win. Going into cross country, Jess was conscious of Graca’s lack of fitness and opted to be conservative.

“Just when I thought this little mare was done, she saw the finish line and went for it.”

Graca De Lago finished double-clear at her first event, just under four months from retiring from racing.

“You can imagine the grin I had when I realized she’d won. Since then, Graca and I have made friends, and I wouldn’t trade her for the world!”

Thanks to Jess for sharing Graca De Lago’s story as she begins her off the track career. We look forward to following along as she progresses!