Many experienced Pony Club members eventually consider purchasing an off-the-track (OTT) horse, with many Thoroughbreds finding post-racing careers as eventers, show jumpers, and show horses. But it’s not just competitive disciplines that OTT horses can excel in. They are often versatile enough to make excellent Pony Club mounts and can be commonly seen in adult riding club activities too.
Thoroughbreds are known for their agility, quickness, athleticism, and sensitivity, which make them ideal candidates for roles in show jumping, eventing, and other disciplines requiring these attributes. However, these same qualities may make them less suited for beginner or nervous riders. It’s important to keep these factors in mind when considering purchasing a Thoroughbred after their racing career.
However, it’s important to note that most Standardbreds are five-gaited, meaning they walk, trot, pace, canter, and gallop. If you choose to retrain a Standardbred, patience and commitment are key, especially in teaching them to canter after their harness racing career.
Why Choose an OTT Horse?
Young OTTs can often be purchased at a fraction of the price of a young purpose-bred sport horse, making them an attractive option for many riders. However, it’s important to remember that the commitment required to retrain an OTT horse can be just as great, if not greater. Many OTT horses have limited experience outside the racetrack, and retraining them for equestrian disciplines can be a long, involved process. For example, while Thoroughbreds are ridden at the track, they may know very little about arena work. Standardbreds, on the other hand, may not have been ridden at all, so retraining is necessary before they can begin their new careers.
It’s vital to understand that retraining an OTT horse isn’t for inexperienced or impatient riders. However, if undertaken systematically and with the right support, retraining can result in a wonderful, athletic, and versatile riding horse suitable for various disciplines.
Important Considerations When Choosing an OTT Horse
When an OTT horse becomes available for purchase, it’s often because they’ve finished their racing career. This can be due to their inability to meet racing requirements, injury, or a physical condition that makes them unsuitable for further racing. If an OTT has sustained an injury or medical condition, it’s important to consult with your vet to assess whether the horse is still suitable for your intended use.
Some key questions to ask the seller include:
- Does the horse perform any stereotypies, such as wind-sucking or weaving?
- Has the horse had any other injuries during its racing career?
- Is the horse easy to worm, shoe, float, truck, clip, ride, and handle?
If you’re an experienced rider who is willing to invest the time and energy required for retraining, and you have access to an experienced coach, there are plenty of OTT horses available who are ready to start their new careers.
A Final Note on Retraining
This information is adapted from Pony Club Australia’s A Certificate Manual, which covers training the OTT horse in depth. The manual includes topics such as pre-ride groundwork, the ridden assessment, management and the ‘three Fs’, under-saddle training, introducing jumping, and cantering and Standardbreds.
Taking on an OTT horse can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it’s important to go in with realistic expectations and an understanding of the work involved. With the right training and support, these horses can become fantastic Pony Club mounts and versatile competitors in a variety of disciplines.
