Black for Me | Kodak is Spreading the Love

Blackfriars gelding, Black for Me, began his race career in 2014. Initially trialing with Roy Rogers, Black for Me was trained further by Dennis Barker, and finally retired with Julie Mitchell. With 28 starts, Black for Me retired from racing in 2019 with lifetime earnings of $8,655. Following retirement, ‘Kodak’ was rehomed to Claudia Webster.

Having purchased Kodak to be her daughters next horse, Claudia unfortunately found herself poor on time and sought to rehome the gelding to someone with the time to produce him further. In December of 2019, Black for Me was rehomed to Monique Brown.

“I have a soft spot for thoroughbreds. I saw him on Cavaletti and there was just something about his face that I loved that drew me to him,” recalled Monique.

Monique found while working with Kodak in the initial stages of their relationship that he was quick to learn and took things within his stride. Monique described Kodak as having a ‘loving and puppy dog personality’.

“He picks things up quickly with a can-do attitude and just loves to do a job for you,” further commented Monique.

In 2020, Monique competed Kodak at his first event in Murray. It was the first time he’d been within a show-jumping arena and competed on a cross-country course. The pair finished in sixth place, despite Monique recalling that their dressage test was less than ideal.

Kodak is currently on long-term lease to Bella Howe, who has attended several OTTWA clinics with the gelding and Adult Riders. Monique’s ultimate goal for Kodak is to produce him into a fun and competitive horse. Whether this is with Bella or Monique, both riders are looking to continue to compete Kodak in show jumping and eventing, which he has shown to love.

*Edit – Since publishing this story, Kodak has been rehomed to Bella. Bella and Kodak have formed a strong partnership and we look forward to following along on their journey.

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