Benito | Linked up with Linc

Bred by Mungrup Stud in 2010, Benito is an impressive gelding by Due Sasso. Trained by David Harrison, Benito began his racing career in 2013, winning his maiden race and continuing to place well for his following starts. This gelding retired in 2016 with a career of eight wins and 10 places, and a 50% placing rate. His lifetime stakes total sits at an impressive $391,050. He was rehomed after retirement to current owner, Laura Kennedy.

We reached out to trainer, David Harrison, who fondly recalled Benito as being a beautifully strong horse with great hindquarters.  Mr. Harrison remembers how much fun Benito’s racing owners had throughout his career.

“Really glad to hear he is being ridden off the track. He was a beautiful natured horse who was lovely to do anything with.” Harrison commented.

Laura was on the hunt for a horse she could form a close connection with, whilst also learning alongside them. Benito, now known as Linc, caught her eye immediately with his kind eye and gentle giant nature. She took him home the day after meeting him, much to the shock of several of Laura’s’ friends who were surprised to hear she had chosen to rehome an off the track thoroughbred. Linc proved the stereotypes wrong with his calm nature, and it did not take him long to begin winning over hearts.

Laura describes Linc as a pleasure to ride and train, and with the help of close friends, he has developed a big fan-base. Although he can be cheeky and bold, Linc takes care of his riders and ensures they always have a good ride. He has a kind and intelligent nature, which Laura suggested makes him more of a large dog than a horse around the stables.

Together Laura and Linc have competed across various disciplines. Their greatest accomplishments include completing a 20km endurance ride, cattle mustering and completing their first 80cm show jumping round. Laura’s favourite memory with Linc is riding him to the top of the Wungong Hills through a spring shower, enjoying the scenery whilst getting soaked. They plan to continue moving up the grades in eventing.

Off the Track WA look forward to hearing about their adventures in 2023 and wish them all the best!