From Racehorse to Ranger

When Paul Boyles welcomed King Erik into his life, he had no idea how profoundly this former racehorse, trained by Ben Pauling, would change everything. An injury put paid to his racing career, but a new lease on life as a trusted companion, subsequent best man, and now accomplished park ranger showcases Erik's story as a shining example of the incredible versatility and intelligence of Thoroughbreds.

Paul had never ridden a horse before Erik arrived at his County Durham base in May 2021. Encouraged by his partner Kay, he took the unconventional leap of faith and learned to ride at the age of 46. While Eric was recouping from his injury, Paul began with regular in-hand walking and a remarkable bond formed. Erik quickly became an indispensable part of Paul’s life.

Once Paul was in the saddle, the dynamic duo found a starring role in the local community at Elemore County Park. The 135-acre former golf course and colliery had long struggled with misuse from illegal scrambler bikes and quads. Alongside fellow former racehorse Éclat des Mottes, affectionately known as Motty, Erik plays a vital role in patrolling the area, acting as a deterrent and helping to dissuade unlawful activity.

As important as his role as a Ranger is, he is, first and foremost, a beloved family member. Perhaps the most touching moment in their journey was Erik’s starring role as best man at Paul’s wedding. Over eight months, Paul and his friend Stephanie Marshall trained Erik to carry the rings down the aisle.

Alongside Motty, who is regularly ridden by Paul’s 11-year-old daughter, he is also in training for a new challenge: horseback archery. Their adaptability to learn activities showcases phenomenal intelligence and the deep trust that the Thoroughbred develops with its owners.

King Erik's impact extends beyond Paul’s personal journey. He has recently become a published “author,” inspiring riders with Erik’s Guide to Hacking in North England, a book detailing ten exceptional riding routes across the region. This latest venture highlights the joy and fulfilment that ex-racehorses can bring beyond the racing world. 

Their story is a testament to the resilience of ex-racehorses and the extraordinary bond they can form with those who believe in them. In Erik, Paul found a purpose, a best friend and a partner in adventure.
King Erik’s journey from racehorse to ranger exemplifies the amazing second careers available to retired racehorses. With patience, love, and the right training, they can flourish in new roles, proving that an injury or a career change doesn’t mean the end of their story. It’s the beginning of a new adventure.

Last Year, Agria and Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) were delighted to announce a partnership to promote the versatility of former racehorses, celebrate their achievements in their post-racing careers and support RoR’s fundraising efforts to support more horses through their lifestyle transition.

Agria, the UK’s only provider of lifetime equine insurance, is set to support a number of initiatives with RoR through their partnership. Any Agria insurance policy purchased through RoR’s affiliate links will result in a percentage being received by RoR. This applies to any insurance policy purchased, including horse, dog, cat and rabbit. Agria will also be providing a special prize bundle for the top-placed RoR in the Agria Lifetime Equine BE100 League series, which will be presented alongside the RoR award.

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Agria Notes to Editors

Agria is one of the world’s leading animal insurers, specialising in small animal and equine insurance. Founded in Sweden in 1890, Agria started underwriting policies in the UK in 2009 and is now a prominent part of the UK pet insurance sector.

Agria’s lifetime equine insurance is the UK’s only lifetime policy for horses. Their policies also have no upper age limit, supporting owners with care for their horses and ponies for life.

Agria works with over 50,000 vets, breeders and rehoming organisations, providing insurance for horses, cats, dogs, and rabbits. Agria also administers pet insurance schemes for the leading small animal registration bodies, The Kennel Club, and the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF).

In 2024, Agria was awarded 'the best pet insurance overall' by the Telegraph. Which? Best Buy for Dog & Cat Insurance for their Lifetime Premium insurance products. 

Agria Pet Insurance Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Services Register Number 496160. Agria Pet Insurance Ltd is registered and incorporated in England and Wales with registered number 04258783. Registered office: First Floor, Blue Leanie, Walton Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP21 7QW. Agria insurance policies are underwritten by Agria Försäkring who is authorised and regulated by the Prudential Regulatory Authority and Financial Conduct Authority.
 
For more information, see www.agriapet.co.uk