New Stride Adoption Story: Arkhill
“He’s the kind of horse that you rarely get the chance to be around in your life, talented and giving, but also a player who keeps reminding you who the star of the show is. Hopefully he winds up being just as much of a star in his new quest.”
Craig Macpherson, former trainer of Arkhill.
Arkhill has been an incredibly special horse from the time he was born. Owned by Alberta owner/breeder Ted Davis, while he was smaller in stature for your average young horse, he has led the way with his spirit and speed since his days as a foal.
Smart, keen and strong, Arkhill was first introduced to the track by rider Virginia Janes and after their first ride together, she distinctly remembers saying to Ted, “This is one of the smartest two-year olds I’ve ever sat on. When he breaks from the gate, he’s going to know what he’s doing.” And that’s exactly what happened as he went on to have a very successful career from 2007-2015 with 57 starts, and a notable win of the final running of the prestigious Alberta Derby at Calgary’s Stampede Park in 2008.
Arkie, as he’s affectionately known, came to New Stride in late fall of 2015 and you could tell right away that he was eager for his next adventure. He found a home at Shannon Stables and showed great balance, was a natural athlete, clever, and an extremely quick learner.
“Arkhill has a heart of gold and will try anything you ask him to, he is playful, always has an engine, a great sense of humour, and a beautiful natural outline,” said May Nolan, Shannon Stables. “He is probably one of the smartest horses I’ve ever worked with and I am so happy that he’s found a new home.”
“I feel we are so fortunate to have such special horses in our program and that their owners entrust them to us to find the best new homes and owners for them,” added Carmen Kramer, New Stride.
Arkhill was recently adopted by Kathy Stephenson from Langley. A very experienced, skilled and passionate rider, Kathy and Arkie are getting to know one another with great success. Her motto – slowly but surely, but Arkie is up for the challenge and the two are becoming fast friends with a very bright future.
New Stride Fundraiser – The Artful Dodger – March 31, 2016
Come join us at our next New Stride pub night fundraiser at The Artful Dodger Pub (2364 200th Street, Langley) on March 31 starting at 6:00pm. Tickets are $20.00 and include a burger, fries and drink, as well as the chance to participate in a silent auction and 50/50 draw.
Bring friends and support a great cause!
Please contact Tammy with any questions or to purchase tickets: tammy@newstride.com
New Stride at LMQHA Bazaar
On March 13, 2016, the New Stride team braved chilly temperatures to set up a booth and training demonstration at the annual LMQHA Bazaar. Despite the weather, our team and volunteers did a wonderful job of interacting with many interested attendees looking to find out more about New Stride.
Two of our horses currently up for adoption, I’m Famous and Fireinthesky, came out with us to demonstrate the starting points of our re-training program. Four year old Fire took everything in stride and looked like an old campaigner. The energy of the crowd and loud music were a bit stressful for Famous however, but we were able to work patiently with him and in less than 20 minutes, he was being ridden by volunteer Alison. She then showed off his lovely trot and moved forward to the canter. He adjusted very well and enjoyed his ride!
A huge thank you to all members of the New Stride team who helped make this years’ experience at the Bazaar such a fun one.
Save the Date
- Hasting Racecourse Community Day – Saturday May 14, 2016
- $7,500 New Stride Thoroughbred Jumper Challenge Series
Our 2016 Schedule:
$1,500 New Stride Jumper Challenge Series
sponsored by Hastings Racecourse
July 2, 2016
Thunderbird Show Park
$1,500 New Stride Jumper Challenge Series
sponsored by Austeville Properties Ltd
July 23, 2016
Milner Downs Equestrian Center
$1,500 New Stride Jumper Challenge Series
sponsored by Great Canadian Gaming Corp
July 30, 2016
Milner Downs Equestrian Center
$3,000 New Stride Jumper Challenge
Finale sponsored by
North American TBHorse Co &
Shannon Stables
September 24, 2016
Thunderbird Show Park
Donate Now
New Stride depends almost exclusively on the generosity of people like you – compassionate individuals who care deeply about finding new homes and careers for Thoroughbred horses.
- To make a gift online, please click here
- To make a gift by mail, cheques should be made payable to New Stride Thoroughbred Adoption Society and mailed to:New Stride Thoroughbred Adoption Society
4799 Olund Road
Abbotsford, BC V4X 1V6
- To make a gift by phone, contact the New Stride office at 778-985-5673 to make your donation
Every little bit helps to take care of these majestic animals that capture our hearts so easily! Tax receipts will be issued for donations of $20 and greater.
We are always looking for volunteers to help us ensure that our beautiful Thoroughbreds find loving, adoptive homes after their racing days are over.You’ll have the opportunity to meet some great people and interact with our extraordinary horses and team of professionals. To find out more about how to get involved and what tasks we need support with, please click here.
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