Cartmel Racecourse’s ambassador horse, Kemboy, will be representing our iconic Cumbrian track with a special personal appearance at Holker Hall & Gardens on Sunday 24th August from 2pm to 3pm to celebrate National Racehorse Week. This is a unique opportunity for racing
fans and families alike to meet one of the sport’s most successful former stars and learn about life after racing in beautiful surroundings just a few miles from Cartmel.
From France to famous
Foaled in May 2012, Kemboy began his racing journey in France but was quickly snapped up by the Supreme Horse Racing Club and sent to Willie Mullins’s esteemed Closutton Stables in Ireland in 2016. He broke his maiden at Limerick under Ruby Walsh that December, before graduating to chasing the following winter
Kemboy’s star rose fast. He claimed four Grade 1 victories, including the prestigious Savills Chase at Leopardstown in December 2018, the Betway Bowl at Aintree, and most memorably, the Punchestown Gold Cup in 2019—which doubled as the final ride of Ruby Walsh’s illustrious
career.
He continued to perform at the top level, even winning the 2021 Irish Gold Cup and concluding his racing career with a win in the Grade 3 Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse in early 2023.
Photograph by Grossick Racing Photography 0771 046 1723
Life after racing
Since retiring in February 2023, Kemboy, now a dignified 13-year-old, has seamlessly transitioned into his new role as the Ambassador Horse for Cartmel—and also became part of the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) ‘Horses for Course’ scheme at Haydock. He spent a well-earned summer grazing at home, before easing into light work from December onwards—he’s been busy attending training clinics, gentle hacking, and even dabbling in showing and dressage. Since stepping away from the track, Kemboy has enjoyed the finer things in life—spacious fields, gentle hacks, and the occasional clinic—all under the watchful eye of those who cared for him throughout his career.
Kemboy at Holker Hall, 24th August
Kemboy will visit the beautiful grounds of Holker Hall & Gardens—just a stone’s throw from Cartmel Racecourse—to celebrate National Racehorse Week in style. From 2pm to 3pm. Visitors can meet the grand old champ and learn about his journey from racehorse to ambassador.
Whether you’re a long-time racing fan or simply looking for an enjoyable and educational family day out, this is a chance to get up close with one of racing’s true champions. Kemboy’s appearance promises not only a celebration of his glittering past but a powerful reminder of the life, care, and love that continues long after the final finish line.
For opening times and directions to Holker Hall & Gardens click here