Zanzibar | Tall and Talented Zanzibar

Tall and handsome, Zanzibar by Crowded House is one of many retired racehorses in Western Australia enjoying his life after racing.

Trained for twelve starts in which he won one race, Zanzibar retired from racing in 2024. Beginning his racing career in Victoria with trainers such as Danny O’brien and Jarrod Robinson, Zanzibar moved into Western Australian racing in 2021. Warwick Bradshaw trained the gelding for his final few starts, before he was sent along to thoroughbred retrainer, Linda Brenzi to be retrained as a potential clerk of the course horse.

Bridget Manners came across Zanzibar on her first day at a pre-training Thoroughbred stud. Zanzibar was selected as her first ride of the day, in which she was assured he was an easy ride. To her surprise, Zanzibar was just that, with a soft mouth and big and bold beautiful movements.

“In that instant, I fell head over heels for him—and for my new job.”

Scrolling on Facebook one day, Bridget came across Zanzibar’s advertisement. It didn’t take long for Bridget to get in touch and secure Zanzibar as hers to own.

Their first year together consisted of earning Zanzibar’s trust and producing him further into his off-the-track education.

“I could see his talent potential shining through; his eye softened and he became playful, clearing enjoying his work.”

Sadly, an injury set Zanzibar back just as he was beginning to understand his new role. Thankfully, Bridget persevered with ensuring Zanzibar recovered and recently he returned to work.

‘Everything we had worked on—flatwork, lunging and groundwork—began to come together again. He loves to ride, is an amazing jumper, and truly gives his all in everything he does.”

Zanzibar has competed at Oakford Equestrians Jump Cross and Hills Show Jumping, thoroughly enjoying his jumping and loving every second of it. Bridget hopes to progress Zanzibar up to 80cm and hopes to venture into a bit of dressage.

“My main goal with Zanzibar is to develop him into a confident show jumper and eventer.”

We look forward to following along with Bridget journey as she works to transition Zanzibar from racehorse into a confident jumper. Thank you to Bridget for sharing her story with her beloved retired racehorse.