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 . . .
Lovely Weather – Lovely Thoroughbreds!
This weather is so wonderful! The boyz (Chilletecaux and Dakota Spirit) have been doing so well. Nancy (the older Ms. Lane) came out to watch both horses go which is great for me given she is such a good ground person. She reminded me not to let Chille get me leading with my body, to keep open to help him stay slower. So easy without someone on the ground and she has such a good eye.
Behren’s Design – Walks, Trots & Canters!
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.
Mimi’s Ava Joins AVA Productions, Inc.
Phil did not know Mimi’s Ava’s full name when he began the buying process. It soon became clear that Mimi was meant to be his horse when her full name turned out to be the name of Phil’s audio visual company – AVA Productions, Inc. Coincidence or divine intervention?
Painted Black – SOLD February 2009
SOLD! Congratulations Gayle Weatherly of Tuscon, Arizona!
Votive – Groundwork, Schroundwork. Let’s Ride!
Just wanted to let you all know I have backed Votive, finally! We have done much groundwork in the month that has passed. We have a great bond with each other and I feel she completely trusts me 100%. We have now had two days of being ridden very easily. Yesterday I had someone hold…
Vilas County Schools His First X-Country Jumps!
Vilas County understood directly what the game was about and as more we jumped as more he wanted to do. At the end he was really paying attention to see where the next jump is. I had great control over him and he never wanted to rush before or after the jumps. We jumped most jumps out of trot as this gives him more confidence right now.
Coin Maker Makes Friends at New Home
Hi Elizabeth, I just wanted to let you know that Coin Maker is doing great. We had him by himself for a couple of days, then in a pasture with our “baby” horses (2 3-year-olds and 1 2-year-old). Yesterday, we let him out with everyone and, other than the usual antics, everyone is getting along…
Anamericansoldier in Connecticut
Soldier is doing well and has settled in here. He has shoes on and is much happier. His teeth are done and he has been wormed once. He is eating and drinking well and we are giving him a bit more food.
Helmet – check, Phone – check, Brakes – check, Seatbelt?
December was full of new experiences for Tux (aka Bato Loco) and me. We went on our first field trip to another farm to ride. He loaded beautifully; however, he whinnied the entire drive. I wonder if he thought I was sending him back to the track! We were both nervous, but I think we…
Cortableau in the “Lap of Luxury”
Cortableau catches on very quickly and is so calm. He is also extremely polite – walks with you nicely, waits while you put his food down, etc. I sat on the mounting block in the round pen, and he came over, put his head down for a scratch, then pretty much put his head in my lap.
Taking It Slow Pays Off . . .
That was around 3 weeks ago. We made quite some miles in the last few weeks. From my last email till now he improved a lot and I decided to give it a try and entered in the Poplar Place schooling show last weekend. And I can tell you he was great…I had entered us in a 2′ jumper class and the Intro A Dressage Test.