As the equestrian world increasingly recognizes the versatility and athleticism of Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTB), understanding how to select the right horse for a specific discipline is crucial. This article delves into the evaluation of three OTTBs by eventing expert Rebecca Bowman, focusing on their suitability for the demanding sport of eventing. Bowman, with her extensive experience in eventing and retraining racehorses, provides insightful assessments based on conformation, racing history, and overall demeanor.
Expert Evaluation for Eventing Prospects
Rebecca Bowman, a seasoned eventer with roots in Australian equestrianism and significant contributions to the US eventing scene, including the Retired Racehorse Training Project (RRTP) Thoroughbred Makeover, offers her expertise. This week’s evaluation focuses on horses from Thoroughbred Retirement of Tampa (T.R.O.T.), a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to the well-being and re-homing of retired racehorses. Bowman emphasizes that while pedigree is not her primary concern, matching a horse’s inherent capabilities to a suitable discipline is paramount. Her general preference lies with OTTBs aged three to eight, though she acknowledges that horses with extensive racing careers, if retired sound, demonstrate remarkable resilience.
Horse #3: Xtralicous – A Budget-Friendly Gem
Xtralicous, a 5-year-old, 15.2 hand chestnut mare, secured third place in Bowman’s ranking. Initially striking Bowman with her beauty, she suspected potential in polo or as a hunter. Bowman notes Xtralicous’s excellent conformation and favorable age. With only two starts, her racing career was brief. However, Bowman’s deeper assessment, informed by the mare’s description, suggests eventing could be her forte. Xtralicous has undertaken various activities over the past three years, indicating a need for patient retraining. Bowman speculates that a course of ulcer treatment might also be beneficial, citing behaviors like cribbing as potential indicators.
The broodmare sire of Xtralicous, Marquetry, a beloved favorite while at Old Friends in Kentucky.
The mare’s existing jumping knowledge makes her an attractive option for a rider on a budget seeking a quality horse. Her combination of good conformation, talent, training, and a lack of injuries positions her as an ideal candidate for a brave teenager looking for a capable mount, particularly within the Pony Club discipline.
Horse #1: Justoutoftheblue – Potential with Considerations
Justoutoftheblue, an 8-year-old, 16.3 hand chestnut mare, earned second place. While slightly older than Bowman’s typical preference, her racing history of 31 starts, primarily in 2009 and 2010, followed by light racing and a 1.5-year break, is viewed positively for retraining. Bowman notes that the time off the track accelerates the retraining process, with the primary focus shifting to building weight and muscle.
Head shot of Justoutoftheblue–an eager, perky face!
Bowman appreciates Justoutoftheblue’s attractive size and uphill build, which are advantageous for dressage. The mare appears attentive, with her ears consistently forward in photographs, suggesting an enjoyable training experience. However, Bowman expresses a degree of caution regarding knee injuries, although she acknowledges that advancements in veterinary diagnostics reveal more injuries than previously detectable. Conformationally, the mare’s shoulder is described as somewhat straight, and her hindquarters are further back than ideal. Despite these concerns, Bowman believes Justoutoftheblue has the potential to excel as a trail horse or a lower-level dressage competitor, especially given her apparent positive attitude.
Horse #2: Prayers at Mass – The Top Choice for Eventing
Prayers at Mass, a 5-year-old, 16.1 hand dark bay or brown mare, claimed the top spot. Bowman identifies her as the ideal candidate for a new career, noting her perfect age and the advantage of a full year off the track, which facilitates retraining. Unusually for a Thoroughbred, she is described as barefoot and an easy keeper, traits Bowman finds highly desirable. Her height is considered ideal for a broad range of riders. With 18 starts and only five placings, it’s suggested she may not have particularly enjoyed racing.
Prayers at Mass moving nicely on the longe line.
Bowman is impressed with Prayers at Mass’s overall build and beautiful movement, envisioning her success in disciplines like hunter, eventing, or polo. Her slightly uphill conformation also lends itself well to dressage. The mare naturally carries herself with elegance, a trait Bowman values as an indicator of a horse’s inherent carriage. The assessment concludes with Bowman expressing a strong desire to acquire Prayers at Mass herself, highlighting her exceptional potential.
Resources for OTTB Enthusiasts
For those considering an Off-the-Track Thoroughbred, the Retired Racehorse Training Project (retiredracehorsetraining.org) offers invaluable resources on selection, purchasing, and retraining tips.
Thoroughbred Retirement of Tampa (www.tampatrot.org) is dedicated to the rehabilitation, retraining, and re-homing of Thoroughbreds from the Tampa Bay Downs racetrack, providing a vital service for these deserving athletes.
Rebecca Bowman’s training program, focusing on eventing and matching riders with suitable horses, can be found at facebook.com/Rose.Equestrian. Her passion for Thoroughbreds, evident from her experience with the RRTP Thoroughbred Makeover, underscores the rewarding potential of these remarkable horses.
