Brooklyn Black | Aiming High is Easy When You Are A Giant!

Brooklyn Black is a 2013 Blackfriars gelding who began his racing career in 2015. Trained by Neville Parnham, Brooklyn Black commenced a two-year long career on the track for ten starts and earnings of $750. He retired in June of 2017.

Following retirement, Brooklyn Black was purchased by Emma Mitchell, who took the handsome gelding and turned his racing career into an exciting eventing one. Robert joined the Mitchell family alongside fellow Blackfriars gelding, Blacktastic, who Emma also competes in eventing with.

It was while competing with Emma at a Brigadoon event, that Mikayla Veron first spotted Robert during his warm-up. Mikayla recalled asking Emma, “if you ever plan to sell this horse, please let me know.”

A year later, Brooklyn Black joined Mikayla’s family in 2019.

Mikayla describes Robert as a character who will always makes her laugh. She fondly suggested he may be the easiest horse to have around as he is docile, but always quick to let her know if he does not enjoy something. Mikayla commented that Robert has been a dream to train, with the right attitude and willingness to learn. They have worked together to build his strength and balance as Robert stands at over 17 hands high.

“He has truly taught me the value of patience, the importance of correct training and never being afraid to ask questions from those more experienced around you, developing my knowledge and experience as a rider” Mikayla said.

This year, Brooklyn Black and Mikayla began the year placing second at South West Horse Trials in the CCN1* class. They then continued on for a handful more one-star starts before moving up to two-star in June at Brigadoon 1 CCN, where they placed eighth. Following on from Brigadoon, Brooklyn Black recently placed fourth at Moora Horse Trials in his second two-star start with Mikayla.

Although there are many, Mikayla suggested that winning the 95cm class at Fairbridge in 2019 may have been her most important accomplishment so far with Robert, as it was a dream come true to win at such a special event. Mikayla is also incredibly proud of her strong partnership and bond with Robert, which allows them to achieve their goals. The pair hope to finish the season strong at 2 * level, with the long-term aim to move up to 3 * and head over east for Melbourne and Adelaide International Three-Day Events.

OTTWA wish Mikayla and Brooklyn Black all the best for their future.