From Racehorse to Champion and Beloved Companion

Rupert Boy may not have had the most illustrious racing career but his journey post-racing has been nothing short of remarkable. Retired in 2017 after a three-year career under trainer Scott Dixon, he had just one win from 25 starts. Owned by Rebekah, the niece of his original owner John Radford, Rupert has flourished in a new role, proving that there is life beyond the racetrack.

Since then he placed in the final of the Stars Champion of Champions and has qualified for the prestigious Aintree Retraining of Racehorses Championships for three consecutive years. In 2023 he achieved an incredible second place in the In-Hand Championship final, competing against over 50 horses.

His dressage career has gone from strength to strength earning himself a place in the Intro Dressage Leagues at Aintree, ultimately making it to the RoR Regional Dressage Championships in both the Intro and Prelim classes last year.

Beyond the show ring, Rupert is a true gentleman with his affectionate personality, making him a firm favourite at the yard.

Rachel Squires, General Manager, Nottingham Racecourse said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Rupert Boy as our Horses for Courses Ambassador at Nottingham Racecourse. He’s a brilliant example of the versatility of ex-racehorses and we’re incredibly excited for the opportunity he will bring for people to connect with him. We look forward to following his journey and welcoming him to select racedays in 2025.”

Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) is British Racing’s official charity for the welfare of horses that have retired from racing. The charity officer’s education for owners, establishes retraining practices and promotes the versality of former racehorses in competitions across various disciplines.

The Horses for Courses scheme, supported by Godolphin, showcases the wide range of disciplines that racehorses go on to enjoy after their racing careers have ended, providing racegoers with an ongoing opportunity to meet and learn more about racing’s biggest stars – the horse!

Keep a look out for updates on Rupet Boy, and you can meet the boy himself at our Family Extravaganza on Saunday 1 June (tickets on sale now!)