Joey

Horse Details

Height

16.1hh - 16.2hh

Colour

Dapple Liver Bay

Age

20 years

Sex

Gelding

Status

Placement Confirmed

Rider Level

Confident Beginner to Experienced Home (Companionship & Light Duties)

Identification

Registered Name

Rampant (NZ)

Date of Birth

2006-09-16

Microchip Number

985125000002695

Disciplines

• Pleasure Riding
• Groundwork
• Companionship
• Light Hacking

Joey - The Horse Who Refused to Retire

Joey arrived at Hawkez Haven in early 2026 carrying a name that many in the New Zealand equestrian community would recognise.

Previously known as Rampant, Joey lived a life that many horses could only dream of. From his early days on the racetrack to competing in showjumping at Horse of the Year, he made his connections immensely proud. But decades of giving his absolute all had taken a toll on his body.

When Joey stepped off the float, he carried himself with the unmistakable dignity of a former champion—coat gleaming, kind eye, and a gentle presence. Beneath that presence, however, years of wear and tear had left his front feet sore and exhausted. At times, even walking across a paddock was uncomfortable.

Rather than accepting that his story was finished, we went to work. Alongside our farrier, Joey began receiving targeted minerals, supportive natural feed additions, and dedicated hoof protection.

Month by month, Joey began to soften and heal. By May 2026, the transformation was unmistakable: the horse who had struggled to take a few steps was trotting and cantering across his paddock with playful enthusiasm.

Joey proved that retirement wasn’t on his agenda just yet. He loves having a purpose, enjoys light interactions, and thrives when he is treated as a valued partner.

Care, Hoof Management & Well-being:

• Hoof Care: Requires regular, attentive farrier visits and ongoing mineral support. He benefits from supportive boots or pads when navigating hard or stony ground.

• Pasture Management: Sensitive to lush or high-sugar spring grass. Thoughtful paddock rotation and grazing management are essential.

• Workload: Suitable for light pleasure riding, groundwork, and quiet hacks. Joey is not available for jumping, competition, or intense schooling.

• Handling: Joey thrives under calm, consistent, and patient hands. He is a gentle soul who gives his heart completely once trust is established.

His Next Chapter:

• Confirmed Home: Joey's placement in Huntly is confirmed, and he will go to live with his new family on a long-term lease.

• Timing: Joey is expected to travel to Huntly within the coming month, once the six-hour journey can be safely organised and completed for him.

• Lifelong Safety Net: Hawkez Haven remains his safety net, with his long-term care arrangement supported by the rescue.

Looking Forward

Joey's next chapter is now taking shape. His placement in Huntly is confirmed, and he will head to his dedicated long-term home within the coming month, once we can safely organise and complete the six-hour journey with him.