Winning racehorse to winning Show Horse

Dino Mak’s racing career consisted of 31 starts for two wins, six seconds and four thirds, earning his connections $187,025 in prize money. 21 of these starts were under trainer Wally Mitchell and his last 10 were with Racquel Landridge.

Mia Langridge first met Dino Mak, by Fastnet Rock and out of New Zealand mare Huka, when he was spelling in Toodyay before recommencing his racing career with her mum, Racquel. Mia recalls that Dino Mak, or Roy as he’s known to his friends, as the golden child. When he arrived there was a lot of excitement about his future on the track.

Roy came to Racquel having some issues with the barriers, but her dedicated team, gave him time and persevered, and soon he was ready to race again. While it was clear Roy had ability, it became apparent that his heart wasn’t in it anymore and he was retired in early 2014.

Racquel was determined to find him the best home possible and asked family friend and Show Horse rider, Sara Naylor, if she’d take him on. Sara had one ride on the gelding at the beach and immediately knew he had a great Show Horse career ahead of him.

Roy was the perfect fit for the Naylor’s stables, having the potential to make a top Show Hunter. Roy is a quirky horse, which made Sara even more excited to take him on and bring out his best.

“He was a rather easy horse to ride and educate, he loved working and hated seeing me ride other horses or having a day off.” Sara says.

Roy soon learned to relax and enjoy his down time.

“He thought he was the king at home, on show day we’d have to catch him and tie him up before doing anything or good luck catching him if he knew what was going on!” Sara recalls.

Together Roy and Sara won a list of titles including the 2015 Runner Up EA Newcomer, Champion Large Hunter Hack at the 2017 Show Horse Classic, and Champion Hunter Hack at the 2018 Western Stars Grand National Qualifier. While they earned many ribbons and sashes together, Sara’s favourite accomplishment when they won Champion Hunter at the 2017 Perth Royal Show. That year Mia also won Champion Child’s Large Hunter Hack at the Show Horse Classic on Roy which qualified them for the Grand Nationals in Sydney.

In late 2019 Sara and Corrine decided that it was time to move Roy on so he could teach a younger rider the Show Horse ropes. Mia had always loved the gelding and understood his quirks, so the decision was made that Roy should return to the Langridge’s stables.

Mia and Roy have now competed at the Show Horse Council Horse of The Year, Perth Royal Show and the Gosnells Masters. Roy is proving himself an all-rounder; taking Mia on bush rides, jumping and by developing his Dressage skills. Mia hopes to compete him in not only Show Horse events, but Show Jumping and Eventing.

Roy loves company and knows he deserves lots of love and attention.

“Roy is a snuggler. He loves company and will give cuddles all day if that means you won’t leave him. He is really great around children and non-horsey people and is just a genuinely great horse that I am very fortunate to have the privilege of owning.” Mia says.

What an amazing horse! We can’t wait to see Mia and Roy grow together!

Dino Mak has his OTTWA Passport, does your thoroughbred or standardbed? All OTT’s welcome, retirees, Show Horse super stars and broodmares alike! Just follow the link below.

Off The Track WA Passport