Chautauqua ex top racehorse ready for equestrian debut

Arguably Australia’s most popular horse, Chautauqua, will make his first public appearance in 16 months when he enters the show ring on January 30.

The striking grey’s first event will be in the Off The Track section, with the headline event, fittingly, the Rob Gaylard Memorial.

Gaylard was instrumental in Chautauqua’s post-racing career before he passed away in 2020.

Leviathan owners Rupert Leigh and Peter Wright, are expected to attend the competition, to be held at the Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre.

Although Chautauqua has been out at small, private events, this is the first opportunity the public will get to see the horse.

Competing in his first equestrian event after transitioning into a show horse in late 2018, rider Casey Bruce is confident that the Grey Flash has what it takes to ‘wow’ judges.

“The event is Show Hack Council Horse of the Year Show. Chautauqua is competing in the Off the Track section,” Bruce said.

“I couldn’t be happier with Sharky (Chautauqua) at home. It’s time now to see if he can continue that training out and about.”

In 2020, racing mourned the loss of media personality Gaylard, who was instrumental in Chautauqua’s shift from racehorse to show horse.

“To be honest, I’m a mix of emotions. (I'm) Excited, worried if he’ll (Chautauqua) behave, anxious and sad to know Rob’s not going to be with me,” she said.

“I’m going to wear his (Rob Gaylard’s) watch on the day, so I have something of his with me.”

“I’m confident he’ll do it right but also a little shadow of worry.”

Source: Karl Kaldawi @racing.com