A retired standardbred horse named Musculus is defying the old adage by embracing new tricks in his post-racing life. Under the care of young retrainer Lily Small, Musculus, also known as Mack, has transitioned into trick riding after a successful career on the harness racing track. With earnings exceeding $130,000 from 75 starts, including 12 wins and 30 placings, Musculus caught Small’s eye at Grant Dixon’s training base in Tamborine back in 2019.

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Small was immediately drawn to the bay gelding’s unique personality and decided to take him under her wing. Starting with basic training for off-the-track horses, Small gradually introduced Musculus to various equestrian disciplines like show jumping and dressage. Her background in trick riding led her to explore this unconventional path with Musculus, a venture that required specialized coaching and equipment.

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Trick riding involves executing daring stunts while mounted, demanding a high level of skill and trust between horse and rider. Small’s collaboration with coach Hollie Shiels and later with Gary Lung through the Queensland Off-The-Track Program’s Subsidised Lessons Program elevated Musculus’ retraining to a professional level. Lung’s expertise and guidance proved instrumental in refining Musculus’ balance and agility for the demands of trick riding.

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Small, who has been retraining standardbreds for several years, is now aiming to formalize her expertise through the QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers Program. Her experience with standardbreds has convinced her of their exceptional adaptability and intelligence, qualities she believes make them versatile for various disciplines beyond racing. Musculus’ transition from a trotter to a trick riding horse exemplifies the breed’s potential for diverse roles.

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In addition to her retraining endeavors, Small is working towards obtaining her license for driving in the sulky, a goal supported by her partner, harness driver/trainer Bryse McElhinney. McElhinney, who hails from a harness racing background, appreciates the significance of programs like QOTT in providing retired racehorses with fulfilling post-racing careers.

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McElhinney commends Small’s dedication to retraining standardbreds like Musculus, emphasizing the importance of offering these horses a second career beyond the racetrack. Witnessing Small’s success in transitioning Musculus into a trick riding horse has reinforced his belief in the value of programs like QOTT in supporting the welfare and versatility of retired racehorses.

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The Queensland Off-The-Track Program’s Subsidised Lessons Program has played a crucial role in Small’s journey, enabling her to access valuable training resources that would have otherwise been financially challenging. As she continues her efforts in retraining retired racehorses, Small remains committed to showcasing the potential and adaptability of standardbreds in various equestrian pursuits.

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