Education
November 20, 2022
From the Racetrack to the Ranch
The transition for an OTTB from the track to the Western disciplines isn’t about speed but patience.…
Education
Training
March 25, 2024
Ask a Trainer: Introducing Lateral Work
Alison O’Dwyer shares her tried and true method to introduce lateral work to the green OTTB.…
January 4, 2024
Ask a Trainer: Asking for the Lead Change
Alice Beckman draws on racing knowledge to explain how to cue for a lead change.…
March 30, 2026
Basic Exercises For Every Showing Horse & Rider
Reprinted from The Plaid Horse: Each week The Plaid Horse asks trainers a question and gathers their answers for you. These trainers have a range of experience, backgrounds, and focus points of their programs, so the answers have as much…
February 24, 2026
The Will to Try: Diving Into the Psychology of the Thoroughbred
Thoroughbreds bring sensitivity and drive to second careers. Clear, thoughtful training helps riders make the most of those traits.…
January 5, 2024
Training Steeplechase Horses
Learn how these horses’ routines differ from those of flat racers…
May 8, 2026
Ask a Trainer: Busy Mouths
Kristina Aaron shares advice for helping settle horses with “busy mouths” under saddle using mental stimulation and practical training tips…
December 10, 2024
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.…
January 4, 2024
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.…
November 20, 2022
From the Racetrack to the Ranch
The transition for an OTTB from the track to the Western disciplines isn’t about speed but patience.…
November 20, 2022
Racehorse Vacations
Many owners and trainers give their runners mental and physical breaks from the racetrack routine.…
January 12, 2024
First Rides
Confidence, planning and flexibility can set you up for success when retraining a horse directly off the track…
January 23, 2024
Strong to the Core: Under Saddle
Apply these techniques to build your OTTB’s second-career strength and agility…
January 4, 2024
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.…
July 27, 2023
Training Timelines
How to know when you and your off-track Thoroughbred are ready for the next step…
February 25, 2025
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.…
January 12, 2024
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.…
January 17, 2023
Webinar: How to Train When You Can’t Ride
Featuring Dr. Shannon Reed and Kristen Kovatch Bentley. Recorded March 2021…
July 18, 2022
The Amateur Owner Lifestyle
How working adults balance busy lives and OTTB ownership.…
March 30, 2023
Positive Outcomes
Positive reinforcement training can give your OTTB a productive and confident start…
March 30, 2023
Bitting Up Your OTTB
How do you choose the right bit with which to restart your OTTB?…
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