Jumps Triple Crown Champion set to return to 'The Bool'

Marlborough wasn’t just a champion on the track, the handsome son of Zabeel proved himself a multi-talented star off it as well.

The Jim Houlahan-trained gelding burst onto the Victorian jumps scene in October 1998, winning his maiden outing over obstacles at Moe by a conservative three lengths.

Talented jumper ‘Marlby’ would go on to take out the prestigious Jumps Triple Crown – the Australian Hurdle, Grand National Hurdle and Hiskens Steeplechase – in an incredible first season that included seven victories from eight jumps starts.

Following a career-ending tendon injury in Japan, the then nine-year-old found a new home with Houlahan’s 15-year-old granddaughter Amy, now a successful trainer in her own right.

Young rider Sophie Doake then came along, and found her horse of a lifetime in Marlby.

Thoroughbreds are considered incredibly versatile and their adaptability makes them perfect for a host of disciplines. However, it is unusual to come across one as versatile as Marlborough.

The gelding proved to be a post-racing star, reaching the highest of grades in each discipline with Doake, including two appearances at the prestigious Garryowen competition and a victory in the 2008 Barastoc Horse of the Year, Division 1 Owner-Rider competition.

Following their career in the showring, the pair turned their collective attention to eventing, a discipline in which he also excelled.

“Marlbs took me to my first 1 star,” said Doake.

“He was a terrific jumping horse, with a great technique over a fence. He was extremely bold.”

The pair have formed a strong bond during their ten years together.

“I still say he’s the best horse I’ve ever owned,” she added.

“I am incredibly lucky to have him; he was such a versatile horse. He took me from just performing well to winning competitions – it was incredible.”

The now 25-year-old has long since retired from the eventing circuit, living out his days in luxury at Doake’s Mansfield property.

“He’s almost 26 now and absolutely loving retirement,” she said.

“He’s at home at my parent’s property in Mansfield with his best friend, Jaffa the pony.

“Marlby is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. He’s got a home for life.”

Along with a host of retired jumps champions, including St Steven and Stand to Gain, Marlborough will make a special guest appearance on the hallowed turf of the Warrnambool Racing Club on Grand Annual Day (Thursday, 3 May).

The parade, proudly presented by Off The Track, will allow the public to see the former champions in all their glory.

Article courtesy of Racing Victoria