AHA Racing is excited to introduce Gideon, our Clevedon-bred Turn Me Loose – Sanzera gelding and the latest addition to our Family & Friends racing journey.
Gideon has been raised and educated with racing firmly in mind and has already impressed with his willingness to work, fluid action and calm demeanour. He is currently completing his final eight-week education and race preparation at Lilywhites Lodge before returning to our Clevedon property for a further six months of growing and development.
Racing ability runs in the family
Gideon is the second foal from Sanzera, who won twice in Brisbane before being retired with a tendon injury and returning home to our Clevedon property to begin her breeding career.
His half-brother, Dubious Express, has already shown plenty of ability, recently producing an exciting second-place finish in Sydney.
The journey so far
Gideon is very much a personal racing project for Virginia and me, continuing something we have enjoyed sharing with family and friends over the past few years.
For now, the focus is firmly on giving him the time, education and preparation he needs to develop into the best racehorse he can be. We’re looking forward to following his progress over the coming months and sharing some of that journey along the way.
The road ahead
Once Gideon has completed his development period at home in Clevedon, the next step will be placing him with one of New Zealand’s leading trainers.
His first racing preparation is currently expected to begin around February or March 2027, although, as always with young horses, his development and readiness will determine the timing.
Family, friends and racing
For Virginia and me, racing has always been about far more than simply watching a horse compete. It’s the stable visits, race days, anticipation, friendships and memorable moments along the way that make the experience so enjoyable.
Since late 2024, we have raced nine Kiwi horses with family and friends in Australia, collectively achieving 19 wins, 23 second placings and 14 thirds.
Gideon is the next chapter, and we’re excited to see where his journey takes us.
Keep in touch
We always enjoy hearing from friends and fellow racing enthusiasts who are interested in what we’re doing.
If you’d like to keep up with Gideon’s progress and our other racing projects, get in touch with Jeff or join our mailing list for updates.
AHA Family & Friends Racing
Jeff & Virginia Poole
Phone Jeff: +64 274 707 389
