Families had the chance to meet and stroke Ascot Gold Cup-winning racehorse Papineau during a “magical” visit in Milton. The day was organised by Godolphin – the world’s largest thoroughbred horseracing and breeding team – who are corporate supporters of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
They brought ex-racehorse Papineau to meet children and families receiving care and support at EACH’s Cambridgeshire hospice.
“It was a joyful afternoon and amazing to see the looks and smiles on people’s faces,” said EACH Groups and Events Co-ordinator Joely Allard. “Papineau was just wonderful – sensitive, intuitive and brilliant with the families. It was like he knew he had to be extra gentle with the children. He seemed to know if they were a bit apprehensive and it really was magical. Talk about the power of Papineau! Our sincere thanks go to Godolphin, for making this possible and also for bringing along teddy bears, activity books, colouring sheets and quizzes for the children.”
The former Ascot Gold Cup winner was ridden to glory by EACH Ambassador Frankie Dettori in 2004. He is now part of a special retraining programme and, due to his calm, gentle and patient personality, has previously visited schoolchildren and hospital patients. After retiring, Papineau joined Godolphin’s rehoming scheme, which forms part of its charitable programme. He is based at Woodditton Stud, in Newmarket.
Fourteen children and young people attended, in addition to 23 family members, and Papineau, who visited the EACH base near Norwich in June, was also greeted by members of the Milton Care team.
“It was such a privilege to be able to work with EACH to deliver such a fabulous experience for the children and families supported by this wonderful charity,” said Penny Taylor, Godolphin’s UK Charities Manager.
Pictures: Dik Ng/EACH
