Road Trippin' to retirement

For some people  ‘Road Tripping’ might spark memories of long, lazy summer holidays and the carefree travelling celebrated in the 1999 Red Hot Chili Peppers’ song Road Trippin’.

But what trainer Stephen Theodore affectionately remembers is the stakes-winning son of Charge Forward and Road to Damascus, Road Trippin’. Bred by Arrowfield with John Leaver’s Planette Thoroughbreds and Alan Jones’ Belford Productions, Road Trippin’ was foaled in 2009 and raised at the Arrowfield Broodmare Farm.

Purchased for $22,500 from Arrowfield at the 2011 Inglis Melbourne Premier Yearling Sale, Road Trippin’ raced for an enthusiastic group of owners and amassed winnings of $404,065 from six wins, including a Listed Race, and 13 placings in a 41-start career.

Pictured: Road Trippin’ on the track. (PHOTO: Sportpix)

Now known as ‘Roadie’, Road Trippin’ has settled into retirement with ease at Ciaron Maher’s Pakenham facility where he fills an important role as a buddy to spellers and horses in work. Property manager Justine Hales believes his laid back attitude makes him a perfect friend to all horses. “Roadie is very quiet in the paddock and doesn’t gallop round too much, so he is a fantastic influence on more spirited horses.”

Roadie has a particular bond with Caulfield Cup winner, Jameka. Justine says of the relationship,  “Roadie is Jameka’s paddock mate whenever she’s at the farm. She adores him which is quite funny as she is very bossy to most other horses!

“Roadie is particularly good when out with young horses – he teaches them some respect and manners, especially at feed time! He is funny to watch with the fillies; he falls head over heels in love every time!”  

Not only a great buddy to horses, Road Trippin’ has also taught one staff member how to ride.

Justine explains, “He is very relaxed, quiet and well behaved so it was easy for Charlotte to learn basic riding skills. However, he has taken retirement in his stride and does little more than walk and trot without encouragement. Charlotte adores him, and has bonded with him from day one – it was wonderful that he could teach her to ride.”

Pictured: Charlotte on board Road Trippin’ in the paddock with Jameka