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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Baileysontherocks – Rockin Update
It’s been a full year since we met at the hunter pace in Kingston! Where did the year go?!? It was great meeting you and the Bits & Bytes family and I hope we’ll see you again in 2009.
It’s been a fun past year with Bailey. Last February he went to our first “away” show . . .
“Marvin” Takes Care of Dad Too! Learning to Jump as Well
Me Tru’s dad gets his first ever saddle time on an off-the-track Thoroughbred.
The Bank President is On Vacation at the Spa
“Banker” (Bank President)is doing very well and seems really happy to be here. He enjoys languishing in his stall then going out and rolling in the dirt.
“Qu” was a Good Boy This Christmas!
Hope everyone made it through the Holidays alright. The horses must have all been very good because Santa left 20 lbs of carrots for them! “Qu” did not know what a carrot was and wouldn’t take a piece until I finally corrupted him 2 days ago. Since he’s a youngster I of course won’t overdo…
“Special” is Way Too Dull a Word for this Day. . .
I have a hard time calling this a success story; to tell the truth, I have a hard time writing about it at all. Some events feel too sacred to talk about, and my 3rd day with Tucks St. Aly was one such event…The ride that day was superb, we continued our communication, and I think we are beginning to learn more and more about each other; but the best surprise I have ever had was the great highlight of the day. Who can I think of that I am more indebted to than Aly’s original owner and breeder, the person whose very desire to have him was and is responsible for his existence today.
Riding Triple Lindy in the Single Digits
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!
“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…
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…
OTTB Gold’s Anatomy – Good as Gold!
Gold’s Anatomy attends his first school show only four months off the track.
Fast Commander Learns Fast!
Congratulations! Former Thoroughbred race horse Fast Commander pins in all three of his first horse show classes with a first and two seconds! Not bad for afour year old Thoroughbred just ten months off-the-track! We are proud of both Stephanie and Fast Commander.
First Ride for Cortableau
I rode Cor (obviously short for Cortableau and also means “heart” in Latin) yesterday. He was so good. We just walked and trotted in the round pen.
My First Ride on Monarch’s Reign
The last time I was on a horse was more than two years ago, so I’m not exactly an expert rider these days! Plus – and I almost hate to add this, because in retrospect it seems so silly – Monarch’s racing history gave me some reason to doubt my first ride would be a smooth one. After all, he had raced twice in his short career, and he’d lost his jockey BOTH TIMES!