Funny moments when racehorses refuse to race

Features | 20th May 2019

Whether it’s refusing to come out of the stalls on the Flat or not fancying a trip over obstacles in Jumps racing, they certainly make for entertaining viewing. It just goes to show that you can lead a horse to the start, but you can’t make it run!

Photo courtesy of the Racing Post

Our list includes some of the great characters in racing such as British cult hero, the aptly named Mad Moose and Australian superstar Chautauqua.

Gurka Friend didn’t fancy it yesterday at Ripon

Commentator’s curse! @SimonMapletoft @RiponRaces pic.twitter.com/bMrSw0tryF
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) May 19, 2019

The popular Mad Moose living up to his name

Japanese racehorse doesn’t want to do his morning gallop

Worst. Trackwork. Ever. Welcome to the Al Ain show… in the grand tradition of completely MAD Japanese horses, he is refusing to gallop this morning at Sha Tin #QEIICup #アルアイン pic.twitter.com/HAJernFoLp
— Michael Cox (@KemblaCoxy) April 26, 2018

It’s a no from Labaik in the 2017 Champion Novice Hurdle at Punchestown

Labaik – he does what he wants… pic.twitter.com/59QdfO5g5S
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) April 25, 2017

Winner of seven Group Ones Chautauqua refuses to come out of the stalls

Luke Harvey falling victim to a refusal with grace and elegance…

The ultimate horseman – @LeglockLuke 😂 pic.twitter.com/wYZw8Yme0G

— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) October 20, 2017

Today at Carlisle, this horse obviously doesn’t like working Mondays

You can't really blame the horse – who likes going to work on a Monday?@CarlisleRaces pic.twitter.com/q8hOl1jnbj

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) May 20, 2019

Highland Lodge puts the brakes on at Aintree

Would you bet on equine skidding competitions? 😂 pic.twitter.com/fnivFFa1F5

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) December 10, 2018