Life After Racing: Devon’s Story with Magic and Benny

This National Racehorse Week, we’re celebrating the incredible journeys of racehorses both on and off the track. For Devon Saunders, ownership has meant opening her home and her heart to two very special ex-racers: Magic (Stowaway Magic) and Benny (Benny Flies High).

Benny arrived with Devon recently, thanks to the dedication of his owners and ROA members Celia Stevens, Sarah Irwin and Jane Reece, who wanted to continue to enjoy his second career after racing. “We agreed he would come and live with me to retrain and hopefully go on to do some exciting things,” Devon explains. “Me and Benny have our sights set on Windsor ROR classes for 2026 - so watch this space!” 

Celia, Sarah and Jane bought Benny from the foal sales in 2015 and have owned him throughout his racing career and now as a budding dressage star!  

Celia, Sarah and Jane all agreed, “We’ve loved Benny since the day we bought him as a foal. Seeing him grow, race, and now thrive in his new chapter with Devon has been incredibly special. He will always mean the world to us, and we have so many happy memories of him both on and off the track. Following his second career is a joy, and we couldn’t be happier knowing he’s loved and given every opportunity to shine”.

Magic joined Devon first, and together they retrained and even qualified for the Aintree National Championships in 2022. Sadly, a leg injury meant he retired from competing in 2023, but he remains very much part of the family. “Magic is a 17hh expensive field ornament now,” says Devon, “but because he is the most charismatic, charming man you will ever meet, he will forever have a home with me.”

For Devon, though, the story of Magic and Benny is about far more than competition. “Yes, they often do go on to make remarkable show animals, but they are so much more than that. Thoroughbreds are incredibly smart and very loyal, and if more people gave them the chance, they would get to experience the love they offer.”

Benny, Magic, Devon and owners Sarah, Celia and Jane’s story is a powerful reminder of the versatility of the thoroughbred and the varied careers and lives they go on to enjoy following their racing career. 

For information on Retraining of Racehorses visit: ror.org.uk

What does your racehorse or former racehorse mean to you? Share your story with us: [email protected]