What are ex racehorses like?

Ex-racehorses or “Off the Track Thoroughbreds” (OTTB) are bred to be strong, forward and agile, making them ideal prospects for many riding disciples. The generally have good conformation and are often over 16 hands high.

Are ex racehorses good?

Former racehorses are typically athletic and intelligent and, with the constant handling they have received during their racing career, they can make excellent riding horses in the right hands. But the time and effort involved in retraining them off the track means they aren't suitable for everyone.

Are retired race horses good for beginners?

While thoroughbreds are some of the most willing and loyal partners on the planet, at the core they are running machines; perpetual adolescents at recess; eager teenagers with a fast car and ADD. In short, a newly retired racehorse is not an ideal ride for the inexperienced.

How do you deal with an ex race horse?

What happens to racehorses when they get old?

Successful racehorses that are retired are most often sent to the breeding shed. This is an area on stallion farms that are made specifically for the breeding of brood mares to successful stallion thoroughbreds. It is a safe environment to prevent injury and ensure that breeding has occurred.

What to expect from your new ex-racehorse

What is the lifespan of a racehorse?

The majority of racehorses will have a racing career of only 2-3 years yet their life expectancy is 25-30 years. Whatever the reason or age at which it occurs, all racehorses will eventually cease racing.

Can ex race horses jump?

Even if your horse has raced over hurdles or as a steeplechaser, it doesn't mean he'll take to jumping like a duck to water – in fact, I find many flat racers actually find jumping easier to begin with than ex-racers who've jumped.

Would you buy an ex racehorse?

Rehoming, buying or loaning an ex racehorse can be a rewarding way to find a versatile, athletic and intelligent horse. Many ex-racehorses have proven they can turn their hoof to anything after life on the track be it dressage, eventing, hacking, endurance riding, hunting or showjumping.

What is the best bit for an ex racehorse?

What do you feed an ex race horse?

RE-LEVE®-MIX a high-fibre, low-starch, cereal-free ration. Highly digestible 'Super-Fibres' and oil supply the energy, reducing the reliance on starch. Some ex-racehorses can have excitable tendencies and feeding low starch feeds can help maintain an even, trainable temperament.

What do you call a retired racehorse?

What are retired racehorses called? A retired Thoroughbred racehorse is called an “Off The Track Thoroughbred,(OTTB). An OTTB is registered with the Jockey Club and retired from racing or training due to injury, lack of talent, or old age.

How much does a retired racehorse cost?

Value depends on how long you are willing to wait and how many people you have looking at your horse. While it is rare for horses fresh off the track to sell for more than $5,000 as riding prospects it has been known to happen. Prices are more often in the $1,000 to $3,000 range.

Do Thoroughbreds enjoy racing?

Thoroughbred horse didn't like racing. He hates running and was hurt on the racetrack, but he has great potential as a companion and riding partner. Two things happened the day Morry went down on the racetrack and didn't get up right away.

Are OTTB good for beginners?

While there are exceptions to every rule, an OTTB is usually not well suited to a beginner or even intermediate rider. This horse needs to not only be re-trained to develop into a safe riding horse but will also need to be un-trained in what he has come to learn is expected from him under saddle.

What age do racehorses get broken in?

Breaking in and Riding Away

Flat racehorses are broken-in at around 18 months of age, having already been very well handled and used to having a bit in its mouth, as well as usually having been lunged and led out in hand. They will also be used to wearing rugs, being shod and generally examined by a variety of people.

Are thoroughbreds easy to ride?

Generally, Thoroughbreds don't make good trail riding horses, especially for beginner riders. They spook easily, are high-strung, and aren't surefooted. A typical Thoroughbred is athletic, intelligent, and a willing horse, but it's also high-strung and sensitive to the slightest pressure.

How often should I ride my OTTB?

At the beginning, I want you to ride seven days a week. Don't ride for long, 30-45 minute is plenty. During that period, you will have to experiment with your training pattern, to find out what works best for you and your horse.

Can thoroughbreds live out in winter?

Many owners of warm or hot blooded horses tend to stable them overnight as shelter from the weather. Even in a stable, they will need a rug and additional energy in the form of extra feeds. There is no reason, however, why even a pure bred Arab or Thoroughbred cannot live out all year round with appropriate care.

How long does it take to retrain a race horse?

However, in general terms a trouble-free training program for a sound, experienced and mature horse may see it racing between 10-14 weeks after returning from a standard spell. That means it's first up start may be about 16-22 weeks after the last start of its previous preparation.

Do race horses get slaughtered?

Two-thirds of horses set to slaughter are quarter horses, and many are castoffs from the rodeo or racing industries. The Thoroughbred-racing industry sends an estimated 10,000 horses to slaughter annually, meaning that half of the 20,000 new foals born each year will eventually be killed for their flesh.

Are race horses lunged?

Generally racehorses are lunged in a pen or small enclosure, so they can be a bit cheeky when lunged in a more open space; you are likely to experience one of more of the following: racing around at high speed.

How do I find an ex race horse?

Are OTTB good jumpers?

They can jump really quickly. They can get down to a fence because they have a natural canter, a rider can bounce the canter to find distances, because its natural energy, it can create a spring in its stride easily.

Are off the track thoroughbreds good horses?

OTTBs for Sale

Thoroughbreds' key characteristics are athleticism, speed, and heart, which makes them very suitable for other equestrian disciplines. Due to their versatility, OTTBs have become five-star eventers, champion hunter/jumpers, competitive barrel racers, and reliable trail partners.