Beyond the Track

Renowned for their amazing athleticism and unparalleled work ethic, and famed for their big hearts and willingness to go the extra mile, Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) have proven to be the ultimate equine partners in a host of disciplines. In this revised edition-which experts have labelled 'breakthrough racehorse literature', 'superior', 'a winner', and the ultimate training manual'-readers learn everything they need to transition an OTTB from life at the track to life out back.Author, Anna Ford, Thoroughbred Program Director at New Vocations Racehorse Adoption, begins with a discussion of the typical Thoroughbred's early years, then explaining: reasons for retirement, common injuries, health issues, basic feeding and nutrition, and safe handling. Ford goes on to provide step-by-step instructions for building the solid educational foundation the OTTB needs to excel in a new career, whether as a highly trained competitor or a pleasure mount.While hundreds of quality photographs illustrate conscientious and professionally tested training methods, dozens of case studies share how other individuals have successfully retrained ex-racehorses. With recommendations from top equestrians, this book is the go-to reference for anyone interested in pursuing a partnership with an OTTB athlete.