Ah, New Year’s. It’s all about resolutions, blank pages and fresh starts, right? It’s a nice reference point, sure, but of course no one really has to wait for a whole new year (or decade) to make a change. Just ask the multitudes of Thoroughbred ex-racehorses looking for a fresh start in a new career all throughout the year (Oh, and a belated Happy Birthday to them all!)
Start your new year out right by helping one of these available off-track Thoroughbreds find success in a second career:
Wiggles. Photo via Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.
Wiggles (SOARING EMPIRE – DEAN AVENUE, BY PURE PRIZE): 2015 15.3-hand New York-bred gelding
His name is WIGGLES. If that isn’t enough to make you hook up your trailer and head off to scoop him up right now then I don’t know what to say. I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to mention that he’s a sweet and personable horse who enjoys attention, and could even be a fun re-start for a junior or amateur (with professional guidance, of course). Wiggles has had a little success on the track, hitting the board eight times in his 21 career starts, but he has started to become gate-sour this season which indicates it’s probably time for a career change for this cutie. He’s 2020 Thoroughbred Makeover eligible, too!
Located in Farmington, New York.
View Wiggles on Finger Lakes Finest Thoroughbreds.
Songbird Eydie. Photo via CANTER CA.
Songbird Eydie (EDDINGTON – SECRET SONGBIRD, BY SEA OF SECRETS): 2017 16.0-hand California-bred mare
This flashy girl remains un-raced, but does have published workouts from last month making her eligible for the 2020 Thoroughbred Makeover. She’s reportedly retiring sound but slow with no hope of becoming a successful racehorse. Despite her dislike of racing, he trainer still thinks she’s super athletic and would make a great sport horse, but does admit that she can be a bit sensitive and will need at least an intermediate rider to help her learn a new job.
Located at Los Alamitos Racetrack in California.
View Songbird Eydie on CANTER CA.
Flatter Me Allie. Photo via Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center.
Flatter Me Allie (SKYLORD – LYRIC PRAISE, BY FLATTER): 2016 15.3-hand Indiana-bred mare
Can you handle the cuteness of this little bay mare? “Allie” has only been off the track for two months, but has seriously impressed the MMSC staff with her level-headedness, her willingness, and how steady she is in her gaits. She’s a kind mare and the staff describes her as “mature beyond her years.” Despite being just a bit on smaller side, she had a deep barrel which will take up the leg of even a taller rider. And yes, she’s 2020 Thoroughbred Makeover eligible as well!
Located in Lexington, Kentucky.
