RIVER DANCE

River Dance, a 2012 gelding, has made an impressive transition from the racetrack to life as a versatile off-the-track horse with Christy Poulsen. With a racing career of 36 starts, eight wins, and eight placings, River earned just under $300,000 before retiring in 2021.

Christy, who rode River as his track rider for much of his racing career, knew he was something special and rehomed him directly after retirement. With over 17 years of experience riding trackwork in Geraldton and New Zealand, Christy has a deep appreciation for Thoroughbreds and their adaptability.

“River is without a doubt, my one in a million,” she says, reflecting on their strong bond.

After a well-earned spell, Christy and River began retraining, focusing on dressage with weekly lessons and attending regional OTTWA clinics. River quickly showed talent in jumping and has since branched out into show horse classes, fashions on the field, and even eventing.

Their partnership has brought notable success, including winning the GCEC Most Points Under 1m and Most Points in Show Jumping awards for 2024, as well as placing equal third in the Jumping WA series in 2023. Looking ahead, Christy hopes to move River up to 1.10m classes and compete more frequently in Perth.

We are excited to follow Christy and River’s continued journey and wishes them all the best as they reach for new goals together. River is certainly thriving in his loving forever home.

Why not provide us with your stories of it's careers and future journey in the sport:
https://www.offthetrackwa.com.au/submit-your-ott-story/