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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First Ride on Gold Commander One
Dear Michelle and Elizabeth, UPDATE: Attached is a photo, not worthy of posting anywhere, but nonetheless evidence of my first ride. I think the trainer is being particularly cautious. I appreciate her caution, but at the same time, I know Gold and I could be making a little more progress. However, I should not discount…
Five Weeks – Our First Trail Ride
This weekend Maverick and I will take the next step in our journey together. We will be moving him to his new home closer to me. I am excited to think that I will be able to see him every day, but I am also sad to see him leave his wonderful, temporary home at Bits & Bytes. In addition to it being a great facility, it has been a place of real learning and confidence building for me. I have learned from an expert (Elizabeth) how to do everything from selecting tack that works best for Maverick, to ground work, to riding in the ring, to our first trail ride together last weekend.
Breaking Free in Georgia!
Our Prospect Horse Breaking Free aka “Freeby” has made it to his new home in Good Hope, GA just outside of Atlanta to his new mom is Kerry Tracey.
Callie’s Wright – First Ride!
I couldn’t wait to e-mail you because today’s first ride on Callie’s Wright went fantastic!!! I was very pleased that she moves really good off my leg, so I don’t have to use much hands. We practiced circles, bending, changing directions. . .
Bank(er)’s Holiday is Over
Banker (Bank President) is doing great. His last day of stall rest is today so tomorrow he gets to go out and on Sunday I am going to get on him for the first time.
First Ride on Whos Cindy Sue
Who’s Cindy Sue was very good…she quickly relaxed and we were able to walk and trot around the ring smoothly!
“Kwinn’s” Collected Canter Pleases Mom
WOOHOO! We finally cantered today! After a year and half, I finally went for a canter with “Kwinn”. It was well worth waiting for though. He’s got a lovely naturally collected canter; nice and steady too. He never gained too much speed and came right back down when asked. I was so proud of him…
OTTB Gold’s Anatomy – Good as Gold!
Gold’s Anatomy attends his first school show only four months off the track.
Finder’s Chance Scores Well in Dressage
Finder’s Chance did great in his first show. Intro Tests A and B. I think he got 69% in Test A and 68% in Test B (even with an error). Except for the entrance and exit, he got all 7s and 8s. He really doesn’t yet have the concept of halting at attention.
Why Ride in a Car when You can Ride a CarMAC?
Carmac is still doing great! I am continuing his lunging and the side reins and he is getting better and better everyday. I haven’t gotten any good pictures, as it’s hard to take pictures while lunging a horse at the same time, must work on my timing. Anyway my mother did come out one afternoon…
Trail Riding Triple Lindy
Lindy and I took our first of many long trail rides cross country. I’m guessing it may have been a first for her since she looked at everything. We rode up and down the hills, through the fields and on the trails through woods for about two hours. It was wonderful!!! She was very brave and very honest– no silly or thoughtless moves 🙂 Lindy learned about stepping over logs and by the end of our ride she was a pro.
Always a Thrill – Another Former OTTB’s First Canter
We cantered for the first time today! I was inspired watching “Hollywood” and his mom, Cherie, as they cantered for the first time, they looked so happy working together. Bubs and I just had to try it. We needed the lunge line to get there but with Elizabeth’s encouragement, Bubba went forward like a champ.…