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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No Bouncing on the Trail Ride

Oct 1, 2010

Bounced did well on a 9/25 trail ride in the Flint Creek area of eastern Oklahoma, hopefully the first of a few warm-ups for the Hunter Pace in November. He has been working nicely in open pasture at home, but this was his first off-campus experience since coming to Oklahoma. He went willingly, straight in…

First Ride Conclusion: Aly is da Bomb!!!

Feb 19, 2009

Ok, that title looks like not a very good description for a horse, especially one that behaved so fantastically on our first ride together, but he is an explosion of awesomeness for me. I’m still in that silent awe at how sweet Tucks St. Aly is, and how good he’s been to me. On the…

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.

Baileysontherocks – Rockin Update

Mar 3, 2009

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 . . .

Mary Misbehavin Meets Her Mom

Nov 6, 2011

Leslie made it home this weekend for the first time since August and finally got to meet Mary Violet (Mary Misbhavin). It was mutual love at first real sight. MV is super sweet. Leslie rode her in the round pen – trotted and cantered, and they did great! We’re going to ride in the big arena today. I just wanted to get you some pictures.

Da’boys – Chilletecaux and Dakota Spirit Check In

Sep 2, 2009

Jane Chance starts training her two new off-the-track Thoroughbreds Chilletecaux and Dakota Spirit for eventing.

Riding Ridge

Feb 28, 2012

It has been two months since I moved Ridge to another barn, and I wanted to let you know that Ridge and I are doing great! My new barn is also located next to a lot of trails, so I am able to do trail rides with my daughter. Ridge seems to enjoy them!

Always a Thrill – Another Former OTTB’s First Canter

Oct 5, 2008

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.…

Finder’s Chance Scores Well in Dressage

May 10, 2009

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.

Team “Loui” Anticipates a Long Partnership

Feb 21, 2009

Saxon Warrior (Waterloo aka Loui) is doing extremely well. I am very happy with him because of his sweet character and eagerness to learn.

Breaking Free in Georgia!

Apr 19, 2013

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.

Fast Commander Learns Fast!

Mar 16, 2009

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.