Goldream, once a top-tier sprinter known on the international racing circuit, now embarks on a new mission. As he calmly steps into his horsebox at New Beginnings on a peaceful morning in East Yorkshire, it's clear this visit might be just as significant as any race he once competed in. Fondly called Remy, his next destination is a brain injury centre in York, where his presence promises to bring joy and comfort to those facing life’s toughest challenges.
From Racehorse to Community Ambassador
At 15 years old, Remy still exudes energy and elegance. Walking confidently up the ramp, his trusty companion, Poppy the miniature pony, follows closely behind. This pair has become an iconic duo at the New Beginnings rehoming and retraining centre on the Garrowby Estate, where they have repeated this routine countless times.
Pam Atkinson, co-founder of New Beginnings, shares a light-hearted concern as she mentions Remy’s potential moodiness. "He might be a little grumpy today," she remarks, "because I had to give him a bath this morning." But she’s confident in his ability to bring joy, as the pair has excelled in community outreach, visiting hospices, care homes, and hospitals. Pam explained that horses like Remy need a specific temperament for such work, but over time, he has become "an absolute star."
Pam and her husband Kevin established New Beginnings in 2010 and have since worked with 32 horses, but Remy remains their crowning achievement. Transforming a high-strung sprinter into a gentle, intuitive ambassador highlights their exceptional skills. Kevin recalls Remy’s early days after his racing career, saying he was initially sent to Newmarket’s racing school to train future jockeys. However, Remy’s racing instincts took over, and he’d bolt away, simply doing what he was bred for—racing from start to finish as quickly as possible. It became clear that Remy needed a different path after his racing days.
Like many ex-racehorses, Goldream’s transition wasn’t smooth at first. His initial post-racing phase didn’t suit him, so he ended up at New Beginnings. Despite his impressive pedigree as a winner of both the King’s Stand and Prix de l'Abbaye, he was treated no differently from the other horses. Pam remembers the day they received him, explaining that their first step was to allow him time to relax and adjust. Gradually, they reintroduced him to work, carefully tailoring their approach to match his needs. It wasn’t long before Remy’s warm and adaptable nature began to shine through.
Bringing Smiles and Comfort
After a short drive, Remy and Poppy arrive at Brainkind, a neurological rehabilitation centre nestled within the old Terry’s chocolate factory grounds, near York Racecourse. As they are led into the garden, they patiently await the arrival of the centre’s patients. Pam observes that when people interact with a horse for the first time, a smile is inevitable. “No one ever frowns; they always smile,” she says, describing the almost magical connection between humans and horses.
Remy, with his towering presence, radiates calmness as he spends two hours engaging with nearly 20 patients, many of whom have suffered brain injuries from accidents or strokes. The experience is both profound and uplifting. As the patients stroke and interact with him, they utilise multiple senses, sparking moments of joy and connection.
None of this would be possible without Pam and Kevin’s dedication. Despite Kevin being temporarily sidelined with a back injury, Pam remains composed and reassuring as she helps the patients interact with Remy. Gently guiding a nervous patient, she advises, "Let him sniff your hand—that’s his way of saying hello. Then, stroke his nose; it’s the softest part."
The Atkinsons' work has not gone unnoticed. Last year, New Beginnings and Remy received the inaugural Sir Peter O'Sullevan Community Impact Award at the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) annual ceremony, a testament to their outstanding contributions to the equine world.
York Racecourse, which organised the visit, has supported New Beginnings from the start. William Derby, the racecourse’s chief executive, explains their long-standing partnership, emphasising the importance of showcasing ex-racehorses’ second careers, both on race days and in community outreach events. “People are fascinated by the horses and learning that they can have fulfilling lives after racing,” Derby says.
Remy has become York’s first equine ambassador, frequently seen at race meetings and community events. Videos of him calmly watching races from the Clock Tower enclosure, with the runners racing by, have captured the public’s imagination. Pam notes that such moments highlight a powerful message—ex-racehorses can transition to new roles and continue to touch lives in meaningful ways.
The work Pam and Kevin do extends beyond these visits. Back at New Beginnings’ stables on Lord and Lady Halifax’s estate, they care for numerous ex-racehorses, providing the care and stability they need. Accredited by RoR, New Beginnings is one of only ten such centres in Britain and plays a vital role in rehabilitating vulnerable horses.
As Remy continues his journey from racehorse to ambassador, he represents the potential for new beginnings and the profound impact that horses can have on people’s lives. From winning prestigious races to offering comfort to those in need, Remy’s story is one of transformation, hope, and the enduring bond between horses and humans.