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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“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.
Runaway Groom – I think not.
I’m forwarding some pics my daughter took of me and my new groom. I’m having a wonderful time with him. We had our first canter today! He is very quiet (hasn’t done anything stupid at all!), smart and willing. In fact, I’m reading the book “Beyond the Track” and he doesn’t fit in at all!…
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.
Carrie Rides Again!
Here are some photos of Carrie and Shu—finally the circle is really complete!…Some of them are a bit blurry—but the essence of a rider on a horse—after all these years and in spite of all infirmities…still shows thru—some things just defy every attempt to have their light snuffed out—here is one.
“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…
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.
Midtown Manhattan’s First Ride with New Mom, Katie
I rode Mattie for the first time today. She was great. We worked in the ring for a little while and then my trainer and I took her for a walk down our street (that’s like a trail ride for us considering were just outside of Fort Lauderdale). She was awesome!!! I expected that she…
“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…
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. . .
Lovers Quarrel Loves Peppermints, Jumping and His New Career and Home!
Just a note to tell you how much we love this new boy – he constantly amazes us with how level headed and sweet he is. Took him out today to the ring and he surprised me that he knew how to longe already! After a bit of W/T/C each direction I then proceeded to…
Reign Day Goes Home!
Reign Day was listed on the Bits & Bytes Farm Web site as a Thoroughbred Horse For Sale – Prospect Horse at the Track. He was purchased by John Reynolds, DVM and his wife Valeri to be a new Pony Club mount for their daughter Julia. Julia was busy with school commitments in February so we were asked to bring Reign Day to Bits & Bytes Farm for some training.
The Newest “A Team” – Allegiant and Amanda
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.