First OTTB Success Stories for

For a new off-the-track Thoroughbred owner there are lots of "Firsts". First Ride, First Show, First Canter or even their First Success Story posted to this site. If you are wondering what it is like to own and ride your own OTTB, read these stories from our buyers about their "Firsts". 

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Starting Stiff as a Rod

Jul 13, 2011

Am thinking also to keep the mounted “work” to a couple of times a week for now and focus on continuing to loosen her and get her shifted and “right” in her work–loose flexible and relaxed with just enuf saddle work to make sure she continues to feel comfortable with it. Does any of this sound right to you guys? and any other suggestions? I am giving her back and haunches good deep rubs whether we have worked or not to try and make sure she stays muscularly as loose as I can….funny—was massaging her poll and upper neck the other day—she started yawning over and over and twisted her neck around to me some much she practically turned herself inside out…lol. Was the funniest goofiest thing, she was practically looking up at the ceiling.

Game ON!

Nov 16, 2011

Also….we got Patrick fully mounted on Game today and led her around….she was a bit nervous walking with him first draped across the saddle…so after a couple of times and her settling ….I had him slip his leg over and just stay laying forward draped over her withers so he could slide sideways off if she got goofy…but she didn’t ….she was my girl….

Parked Outside Antioch’s Stall

Mar 25, 2010

It has been a thrilling day! We spent the majority of our time parked outside Antioch’s stall sitting in lawn chairs. I feel like I have a newborn at home who I have to watch to see when they poop and drink and eat. He finally laid down for some rest this evening. He was exhausted. He has been eating and drinking.

Team “Splash Protect” Flourishing After First Year Together

Oct 3, 2008

Here is Splash Protect’s, “Finnegan’s”, long overdue success story. Well it’s been more than a year since I began my OTTB adventure. I must say that I am totally confident that I made the right decision, despite a lot of doubt in the beginning. We have been through some rough times, all of which was…

TK’s Turn Wins Blue at First Dressage Show!

Dec 13, 2010

Hey E and B, TK (TK’s Turn) and I got first place in our dressage test class! Granted, there were only two of us in it, but still! We did Intro A and got a 63. It was only our third ride together since TK came off-the-track. Leslie and Coin Maker won their class also,…

Dakota Spirit – SOLD!

Jul 31, 2009

Dakota Spirit was an unraced 2006, 16.2 hand bay gelding when he was purchased by Jane Chance of Locust Grove, GA!!! Watch to see her train Dakota Spirit for his new career as an eventor.

The Newest “A Team” – Allegiant and Amanda

Jul 1, 2009

Allegiant is doing fantastic!! She is settling in great. Her pasture buddy is a 25 year old 13hh pony mare. But, right across the fence, she can also hang out with three geldings.

Construction’s Checklist: Canters (check), Crosses Creeks (check), Coups (check) and Carrots (check, check, check….)

Oct 8, 2008

“Gus” (Construction) is so incredibly happy with his new career and new home at Bits & Bytes Farm. His personality comes out more and more everyday and I absolutely adore him. He has recently perfected the art of rolling (every single inch of his body gets covered with dust) and decided he has a LOVE…

Jumping for Joy

Aug 28, 2010

Just wanted to let you know that Molly has started working with her trainer to
teach Antioch to jump! He is doing fabulous so far, very willing.

Construction’s First Ride

Aug 16, 2008

Meredeth and Construction enjoy their first ride together at Bits & Bytes Farm.

Riding Triple Lindy in the Single Digits

Jan 8, 2010

It had been three years since Anne had ridden when she got on her newly off-the-track Thoroughbred filly – Triple Lindy. It was nice to be able to sit in a saddle and hold the reins and just enjoy the ride and the view from above!

Behren’s Design – Walks, Trots & Canters!

Mar 10, 2008

The first real ride went very well. He walked and trotted without a care in the world. I will be taking Behren to meet my trainer for the first time on the 21st. I will let you know how it goes. Thanks. Read more stories and see photos.