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
Under saddle
June 24, 2024
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.…
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 12, 2024
First Rides
Confidence, planning and flexibility can set you up for success when retraining a horse directly off the track…
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.…
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.…
July 8, 2026
When a Rider Realizes They Are Asking For An Incorrect Distance or None At All, What Should They Do?
Finding the perfect distance doesn’t happen every time. In this Trainer Tuesday, experienced trainers share their best advice for staying balanced, supporting the horse, and recovering confidently when a jump doesn’t come up as planned.…
January 4, 2024
Ask a Trainer: Developing the Sloppy Jumper
Rosie Napravnik shares some advice for the sloppy horse over low fences.…
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.…
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…
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