Billies a Star NZ – A Star in Everyone’s Eyes

Billies a Star NZ raced under trainer Michael Brennan until he retired in early 2018. The American Ideal USA gelding had 54 starts for 12 wins, three seconds and five thirds, earning $145,262 across his racing career.

Michael remembers the talented gelding as a gentleman and lovely horse to have around.

“He was always going to be a horse who made someone happy once he retired from racing.” Michael said.

A special horse in many ways, Billie was bred by Dawn McQuoid who named the gelding after her mother.

“Both Dawn and I love getting updates and seeing how far he has come with new owners. It’s great to see him bringing someone the same happiness as he did for us on the track.” Michael said.

Billie’s a Star NZ was rehomed by Bayley Thomas to Milly and Lisa Martin in September 2018.

In May 2019, less than a year after arriving with Milly and Lisa Billie had a paddock accident which resulted in a suspected fractured pelvis. Initially it looked as though this would be the end of Billie’s days under saddle. But the Martin’s didn’t give up and Billie was given four to five months paddock rest as well as chiropractic treatments, Bowen therapy and lots of love and attention.

In October 2019 their hard worked began to pay off and Milly was able to start build up Billie’s strength and fitness with light ground work before finally getting back in the saddle. Milly and Billie continued to work hard and in February 2020 they attended his first show, the SPPHAWA Summer Scorcher. Their determination paid off and the pair came home with 11 ribbons for in-hand and ridden classes.

This year Billie and Milly have been attending Horsemens Pony Club where Billie has been building his confidence. They have also competed at the SPPHAWA Winter Gala and the Unofficial Gala where he brought home a collection of ribbons.

“Billie is such a kind, honest horse who tries his little heart out for his rider. We are so proud of Billie and my daughter Milly for her perseverance getting Billie to where he is today.” Said Lisa.

Billie’s a Star NZ has his OTTWA Passport, does your off the track horse. It’s free and easy to do. Click here