Apply these techniques to build your OTTB’s second-career strength and agility
Ask a Trainer: Developing Quality Gaits
USEF “R” Hunter judge and trainer Sissy Wickes shares her slow and steady method for improving gait quality in the recently-retired racehorse.
Bitting Up Your OTTB
How do you choose the right bit with which to restart your OTTB?
Training Timelines
How to know when you and your off-track Thoroughbred are ready for the next step
Ask a Trainer: Developing the Sloppy Jumper
Rosie Napravnik shares some advice for the sloppy horse over low fences.
From the Racetrack to the Ranch
The transition for an OTTB from the track to the Western disciplines isn’t about speed but patience.
Developing the Perfect Foxhunter
Are you inspired to try your hand at hunting? We’ll walk you through the process of finding a hunt and preparing your off-track Thoroughbred for his first outings.
Ask a Trainer: Introducing Lateral Work
Alison O’Dwyer shares her tried and true method to introduce lateral work to the green OTTB.
Webinar: How to Train When You Can’t Ride
Featuring Dr. Shannon Reed and Kristen Kovatch Bentley. Recorded March 2021
Ask a Trainer: Balancing the Jumper On Landing
Rosie Napravnik shares some advice for the horse who “scoots” after a long spot or a dropped rail.
Conditioning Off-Track Thoroughbreds
Proper conditioning helps Thoroughbreds transition from the racetrack by building strength, reducing injury risk and preparing them to thrive in their next chapters.
Ask a Trainer: Going For a Gallop
Jockey turned OTTB trainer Alice Beckman shares advice for asking for an open gallop outside of the arena.
Racehorse Vacations
Many owners and trainers give their runners mental and physical breaks from the racetrack routine.
Strong to the Core: Under Saddle
Apply these techniques to build your OTTB’s second-career strength and agility
The Amateur Owner Lifestyle
How working adults balance busy lives and OTTB ownership.
Ask a Trainer: Asking for the Lead Change
Alice Beckman draws on racing knowledge to explain how to cue for a lead change.
First Rides
Confidence, planning and flexibility can set you up for success when retraining a horse directly off the track
Ask a Trainer: Pairing Juniors & OTTBs
Professional Julia Jesu tackles a common question: how do you ensure that a green OTTB is the right horse for a junior rider?
Ask a Trainer: Conquering Trailering Issues
Professional Lauren Burke shares her whole-horse approach to making trailer loading and hauling a smooth, stress-free process.
Ask a Trainer: First Hacks Out of the Arena
Professional Caitlan Brooks shares her tried-and-true tips for safely introducing hacks to the recently-retired racehorse.
Positive Outcomes
Positive reinforcement training can give your OTTB a productive and confident start
When to Work With a Trainer
Transitioning a Thoroughbred to a new career is rewarding, but also a massive challenge. Don’t be afraid to work with a professional!
Training Steeplechase Horses
Learn how these horses’ routines differ from those of flat racers