Newcastle, left, performs in the USPP "musical ride" at the Virginia Gold Cup in 2007. Next to him are Easy, center, and Big Mac. (photo: The HOOFS Fund)
Police Horse Profile: Newcastle
Foaled in 1994 and donated two years ago to the United States Park Police (USPP) in Washington, D.C., Newcastle stands over 16 hands. He was one of the stars of the USPP's "musical ride" performance at the 2007 Virginia Gold Cup and at the 2007 America's Cup of Polo at Historic Morven Park in Leesburg, Va.
Newcastle was ridden by several different officers from Maryland, D.C., and the Republic of Georgia during a 2008 10-week class at Edgewater Stables, a USPP facility in Washington's Rock Creek Park. The HOOFS Fund donated 12 Supracor pads to help prevent back injuries among the horses used in the class, including Newcastle.
The individual horses in the department have different roles based on their strengths and weaknesses. Newcastle does not patrol the streets, but his strength and stamina mean he is well-suited to train new riders. He is a favorite among volunteers at the stables. He likes his mane and tail brushed and when someone gently rubs the area around his eyes. He prefers his personal space and is not keen on other horses stalled next to him. Editor's note: We are sad to report that Newcastle collapsed and passed away suddenly April 14, 2010 while serving in the 10-week Spring class for new officers held at the U.S. Park Police Edgewater Training Barn in Washington, D.C.
