In the beginning...

More and more publicity is being given to the necessity of retraining racehorses for second careers once their racing days are over. A resurgence of Thoroughbred popularity is beginning to show up not only in the eventing venue, where these horses have always been highly valued, but also in the dressage, hunter-jumper, and equitation show rings.  Trail riding enthusiasts and Western discipline riders are also considering these horses as their equine partners.   I love these horses—they are my passion.  I have been riding Off Track Thoroughbreds since my very first riding lesson on a horse named Sneakers.   These horses touch many lives during their careers, and the lessons they teach are invaluable.  Thoroughbred horses in general, and well-trained OTTBs in particular, are sane, kind, honest, intelligent horses who are suitable for any discipline with riders of all ages.  My own children cannot wait to graduate from ponies to Thoroughbreds (soon!).