How to train a throroughbred ex-racer?....?

Question

heya guys,

i have a race horse that is 16.3 hh and quite figety and a litte bit of a stubborn gelding! but i am going to make and try my best to make him a regular riding horse that can jump and do just the basic dressage. he is very highly strung and is the offspring of the incredible racer PLACERVILLE! an american high flier! so he is being imported from india to dubai. and i will be stabling him here in dubai. umm.. please can u give me basic skills and tips on how to train him, and what steps i should take,how to make him learn the basics aids (walk trot canter) and stand still without too much flitching! i have adored him for three years. i clearly do not have the money to bring him here, but i have been saving up for the past three years, and have gathered enough money t bring him. my love for this racer is absolutely big, i love him to bits. so i am not going to give up no matter what! write now i am a 21 year old model and making myself work extra for the money!

thanks guys!

Answer 1

Check out the Yahoo Groups

They have some really good ones on re-training ex-racers.

There are lots of people who are members and they have alot of experience with horses and the issues that racers have.

Some of them work at the track and most all of them own ex-racers. Many have done all the re-training themselves.

Good luck.

Answer 2

Take it slow. Ex-racers are really high strung and it will get frustrating! First, do a lot of trust building and bonding work, so he'll trust you. Then start lunging him. After, you're fine with that, do it with a saddle. Then, with someone holding him, hop on. Everyday, start with walking around,, trotting. Then have someone put you on a lunge line. After you feel comfortable, try without. It'll take time, but he sounds great and if you take it slowly he'll probably be great! (This is meant to be done over days, until he calms down.)(Also, you could try giving him calming supplements)