Family Bonding finds his calling
Arrowfield graduate Family Bonding, now named Bentley, is relishing his career as a show jumper with his devoted new owner Eden Evans. (PHOTO: Eden Evans)
At Arrowfield in the early hours of an August morning in 2020 “a very good first foal” was born. The bay colt by Pariah (a brilliant son of the legendary Redoute’s Choice) out of the mare Lexicology, by Kentucky Derby winner Animal Kingdom, would eventually be named Family Bonding.
As a yearling Family Bonding was purchased by Moorillah Pastoral at the 2022 Magic Millions Adelaide Sale before being offered again a year later at the Magic Millions Gold Coast 2YOs In Training Sale where he was secured by Sunshine Coast trainers Ashley & Calvin Perks.
Family Bonding had an unsuccessful racing career, failing to finish in the top four in any of his ten starts before ultimately retiring after a last place finish at Ballina in June 2024.
But his story was far from finished, thanks to a change of ownership and discipline. Now named ‘Bentley,’ the former racehorse is sweeping up blue ribbons in the world of showjumping with his new owner Eden Evans who found him on Facebook and is based in the Scenic Rim area of Queensland.
Eden has re-trained the rising 5YO gelding herself, focusing on dressage and showjumping, with the help of various clinics and assistance from her knowledgeable trainers Kris Brown and Lesley Brodbeck.
At their very first showjumping event the duo picked up first, second & fourth placings in their classes and ended up second overall for the day. Bentley is now back in work under Eden after a few months off, with the aim of pursuing more success in competitions later this year.
At home Bentley enjoys spending his time with his best friend, a miniature pony, and with Eden’s two young daughters who now use him as a lead pony. He is keen on his feed, sometimes bringing his bucket up to the gate himself if service is too slow.
Eden says, “I get compliments everywhere I go on his nice temperament and how beautifully he is coming along in his retraining, especially for a young horse. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Bentley and me.”
We’re thrilled that Family Bonding aka Bentley has found such a wonderful home and that his early care & handling have helped him succeed in a new career.
Team Arrowfield wishes Bentley & Eden all the best for the future!
