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 Taxi Ride!

Oct 12, 2010

Taxi had an awesome day. It’s amazing how fast she learns. She’s getting a double whammy of the no tolerance policy between Caitlin and Pepper.

Five Weeks – Our First Trail Ride

Nov 23, 2009

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.

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.

First Ride on Whos Cindy Sue

Sep 4, 2009

Who’s Cindy Sue was very good…she quickly relaxed and we were able to walk and trot around the ring smoothly!

Show and Tell with the Bank President

Nov 7, 2009

Banker and I have had our first ride which was fun and interesting. It feels like a long way up when you sit on him, thankfully I stayed up there = ). He took the first few minutes to show me what a “feel good” horse he is and I showed him that its not my first time. After the “show and tell” time we settled into a nice trotting circle. That is pretty much all we’ve been able to do as he is still recovering and I don’t want to push it with him.

“Kwinn’s” Collected Canter Pleases Mom

Sep 29, 2008

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…

Coin Maker Makes Friends at New Home

May 18, 2007

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…

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.

“Marvin’s” First Ride – Me Tru(ly) Wonderful

Oct 20, 2009

I am totally, completely, crazily in love with Me Tru (aka Marvin). He is everything that Becky said he was…and so much more.

Decorative Arrives Home in Pennsylvania

May 15, 2009

Decorative has arrived at his new home in Pennsylvania. He was calm and collected. He was sold to Kate Stanton in May 2009.

When That Little Voice Says “Do It!”…

Oct 1, 2008

Today was such a thrill! It’s been a week and a half. Loco and I have been working very hard in the round pen every day. They say thoroughbreds naturally tend to move forward in the pen. Not mine. We’re getting much better, but he’d really like to just look at me and follow me…

“Marvin” Takes Care of Dad Too! Learning to Jump as Well

Dec 22, 2009

Me Tru’s dad gets his first ever saddle time on an off-the-track Thoroughbred.