Que Sera’s journey from the racecourse to the equestrian arena is a shining example of the incredible versatility of retrained racehorses. Based in Kirtlington, Oxfordshire, this former racehorse’s transformation into a multi-disciplined champion highlights the adaptability of thoroughbreds and the remarkable bond between horses and their owners. Recognized for his impressive achievements across several disciplines, Que Sera was awarded the prestigious Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) Horse of the Year Award, a well-deserved honour that underscores his success and the importance of second careers for retired racehorses.
Que Sera’s story begins on the racetrack, where he had a brief but promising career. Racing between 2014 and 2016, he earned £3,438 in career earnings and secured one win at Towcester. Despite this success, his time on the track was not entirely fulfilling, as it became clear that he was not suited to the pressures of competitive racing. It’s a familiar story for many racehorses whose potential isn’t fully realized in the racing world, but for Que Sera, this marked the beginning of a new chapter.
In horse racing, anything can happen and Que Sera's story is proof of that, so it's always useful to closely follow horse racing tips for tomorrow to stay informed and make better decisions. After his racing career, he was rehomed by Jo and Ben Hales, who provided him with the dedicated care and retraining that allowed him to flourish in new disciplines.
Jo Hales, a dedicated veterinarian with a deep-rooted love for horses, was instrumental in helping Que Sera recover and adapt to a new chapter in life. After he sustained a serious, potentially life-ending injury, Jo’s skill and care became essential to his healing process. Her knowledge and unwavering attention supported his gradual return to strength and fitness, ultimately preparing him for a fresh start in a different role.
Throughout the years, the Hales family has shared both personal milestones and meaningful community impact through their journey with Que Sera. He has played an active role in charitable initiatives, helping generate considerable funds for various causes. Beyond that, he’s served as an educational companion—introducing many children to the experience of riding for the very first time.
In the years following his transition from racing, Que Sera has demonstrated exceptional versatility, excelling in a wide range of equestrian disciplines. His ability to adapt to different forms of competition is a testament to the true nature of a retrained racehorse. In dressage, one of the most technical and disciplined equestrian sports, Que Sera quickly made his mark. He won the 2019 Novice Southern Championships at just his third-ever dressage competition, showcasing his natural talent and steady progress.
His accomplishments continued with his racehorse to riding horse victory in the 2022 Elementary Championship at Aintree and a second-place finish in the Medium League Championships the following year. These achievements are just a few of the highlights of a remarkable career that spans multiple disciplines. Aside from his success in dressage, Que Sera has also excelled in side-saddle, a discipline that requires elegance and precision. He has won multiple classes, including prestigious events such as the Royal Windsor Horse Show and the National Side Saddle Championships.
His success in this area reflects his calm temperament, adaptability, and the connection he shares with Jo and her family. It’s not just about the competition—Que Sera’s accomplishments in side-saddle represent a partnership built on trust and mutual respect, qualities vital when retraining a former racehorse.
The recognition of Que Sera’s achievements at the RoR Horse of the Year Award ceremony in February is a significant moment for both him and the retraining community. It serves as a reminder of the tremendous work done by organizations like Retraining of Racehorses, whose mission is to provide former racehorses with the opportunity for new careers after their time on the track. The RoR’s annual awards celebrate the versatility and potential of retired racehorses, and Que Sera’s win is a testament to the incredible success that can come from retraining efforts.
David Catlow, Managing Director of RoR, emphasized that Que Sera’s achievements exemplify the extraordinary capabilities of retrained racehorses. His success story highlights the value of proper aftercare and retraining and the bond between horse and owner, which plays a crucial role in their continued success. For Jo and Ben Hales, Que Sera is not just a prize-winning horse but a beloved family member, whose temperament and willingness to learn have made him an integral part of their lives.
