Horse lovers are in for a special treat on Sunday afternoon when Tanabi Bromac returns to the scene of his victory in the 2010 Wimmera Mail-Times Horsham Pacing Cup to lead the field out for the 2016 edition of the $70,000 Group 2 harness racing contest.
Tanabi Bromac was retired in July 2013 after a racing career that spanned some 6 years and 107 starts.
The black gelding scored by 20 metres on debut at Bendigo as a 2YO and built the imposing record of 24 wins, 31 minor placings and stakes of $465,927.
Tanabi Bromac's victories include the Victoria Derby Final, a quartet of Country Cups at Shepparton, Wangaratta Echuca and Horsham, three wins at Melton, four at Moonee Valley and minor placings in a host of big races such as the NSW Derby, Vicbred 3YO Final, Sydney Inter Dominion Heat, Len Smith Mile and The Enduro.
Trained throughout his career by Elmore trainer Keith Cotchin, Tanabi Bromac campaigned successfully right across the nation, in Victoria, Tasmania, Queensland, South Australia and NSW.
But after retirement "Ernie" struggled to adapt to life in the paddock, much preferring the action around a racing stable.
The Cotchin family were well aware that he needed to be involved in something productive and stimulating and kindly offered their little champ to Shepparton horsewoman Julie Duffy for adoption and re-education.
"He's taken to his new life like a duck to water," said Julie. " I think he's going to make a great all rounder- jumping, trail riding and dressage."
Forward to Horsham on Sunday afternoon and Ernie accompanied by Julie and HERO program Manager Tanya McDermott will lead the field to a Horsham Cup victory, not in the sulky sporting the red and blue silks, but under saddle in the finest equestrian turnout.
PS. The Cotchin family gave Tanabi Bromac his stable name of "Ernie" after the popular, indigenous, television personality Ernie Dingo.
Tony Logan & Tanya McDermott