As I look back on my personal journey with my own OTTB, I can’t help but wonder at the sense of pride that comes from producing a horse yourself. Until this horse, I’ve spent more of my riding “career” on the backs of horses who had at least been started and were jumping courses. This was my first true baby green horse, and I have loved every second of it.
Sure, I’m not a professional, and likely never will be, but that doesn’t stop me from wanting to give my horse the best possible start I can give him. I have the help of some amazing trainers, and our own Kate Samuels has become my “texting coach” in addition, so you definitely need support. It truly takes a village, and I think my baby horse would thank each and every person who has had a hand in his development.
At the end of the day, I know I can look back and say that I am responsible for every mistake, hole, or bad habit. But I can, hopefully, also say that I am at least mostly responsible for his success. And that is truly rewarding.
Now, enough with my sappy story and let’s find you an OTTB of your own to produce!
Photo courtesy of New Vocations.
First up this week is a lovely girl available through New Vocations in Lexington, Ky. Tuesday’s Pal (One Nice Cat – Its Tuesday, by Take Me Out) is a 2011 mare who just raced one time last October at Belmont Park. She’s a “big-bodied” 16 hands and does have a granuloma on her left eye but does not have any special needs.
Tuesday’s Pal is a quick learner with a great attitude and has already been started free jumping. Check her out on New Vocations here.
Photo via Akindale Thoroughbred Rescue.
We’re featuring a listing from an organization we haven’t had on here yet: Akindale Thoroughbred Rescue in New York. This commendable organization’s goal is to rescue Thoroughbreds from auctions such as New Holland in order to give them a new chance at a fresh start.
Oklahoma Ace (Malibu Moon – Miss Moonlight, by Broad Brush) is a 2011 gelding standing 16+ hands. This handsome guy also raced just one time at Saratoga last summer. He is currently entered in the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover this fall and will happily make someone a great project! Check out more information about Oklahoma Ace here.
Photo used with permission from CANTER Texas.
Third this week is Mighty Whirl, a 2012 colt standing 16-16.1 hands available through CANTER Texas. Mighty Whirl (Ish Ar – Nanie’s Whirl, by Pancho Villa) raced 8 times, earning nearly $8,000. He last raced in May of 2015 and does have chips in his left knee and right fetlock that may need attention from his new owner. He is, however, said to be sound at the moment.
Mighty Whirl is said to be friendly and well-mannered and just needs someone to take a chance on him for his second career. You can learn more about him here.
