Hickathrift House Post a Wish racehorse fan dream comes true

Richard, a resident at Barchester’s Hickathrift House Care Home in Marshland St James, Wisbech, was the owner of a racehorse and a lifelong supporter of the sport.

Before coming to Hickathrift House, Richard was a racehorse owner and spent his time looking after his horse, Sleepy Blue Ocean.

He has always wanted to return to the racecourse and be part of the atmosphere again, so the Hickathrift team made his wish a reality on May 7.

Since joining Hickathrift House, Richard often reminisces about his many days at the racecourse and training grounds with Sleepy Blue Ocean, winning and losing races and the best jockeys he worked with.

He last raced his horse in 2009 but, to Richard, those are some of his most vivid happiest memories.

The care home team therefore decided to work on preparing a beautiful day at the races for him and his friends.

Hickathrift Houses’ ‘Post a Wish’ initiative is where residents can write their goals, passions and meaningful things they’d like to do and the team works on helping them complete these ‘wishes’ throughout the year.

Trudi Moulton, hospitality and race day co-ordinator of Fakenham Racecourse, was more than happy to support with maps and discussions about what's on offer and welcoming Richard on the day to the racecourse.

Richard said: “The trip has been brilliant. It’s taken me back to such grand memories of my horse.

“I had so much fun telling everyone about Sleepy Blue Ocean at the races. Thank you so much, it’s brought back so many fantastic feelings.”

Staff at the home were delighted to be a part of making his dream come true.

Kat Colangelo, head of activities, said: “It’s been such a beautiful afternoon, watching the horses and winning a few races together. We can’t thank the staff at the Racecourse enough .”

Paula Colman, general manager, said: “It was so nice to see how happy Richard was – and the staff loved being a part of this as well.”