Katherine Marie Bacolas is the proud owner of former Casse trainee JUSTASTAR, now known in the barn as Celeste or Celly. Justastar made four starts in the Casse Racing program and later had one foal before retiring to Katherine. She was immediately drawn to the mare’s intelligence and steady personality, which made the retraining process direct and productive. Katherine started with groundwork, dressage, and western work to build strength, confidence, and balance before moving on to more advanced skills.
Although the pair showed only a small amount locally due to Katherine’s schedule, they made their first major trip together to the Retired Racehorse Project. Competing in the Broodmare Division, they entered Ranch Work and Competitive Trail and came away as champions in both classes. Katherine credits their progress to classical, methodical training approaches that prioritize relaxation and correct development from the ground up.
Today, Celly continues to thrive in her cross-training program and will begin jumping this winter. Katherine is grateful for the partnership they’ve built and appreciates the mare’s willing nature and quick mind. She even taught Celly to smile for cookies, a small detail that reflects their close connection and the time they’ve invested together.
We wish Katherine and Celly the best of luck in 2026 and look forward to watching them continue to progress.
Justastar was owned by John Oxley during her time with Casse Racing.